Today is a day for us to celebrate the great men in our lives who have been a consistent prime example of manhood. My father has been all of that and more. Every year that I grow older, I am increasingly confident that my father has been the best example to me of what I should expect and deserve from a real man. I love to tell my father’s story, because it just shows how adamant he was on providing a secure place for his family. My father has overcome so many obstacles in his life. Through it all, he’s shown strength first and sensitivity at a balance that we’ve never confused. When he puts his foot down, that’s it. But he has always been open to hearing perspectives and showing empathy in any situation. He has a forgiving heart and a supreme connection to his little girls. My father would never allow his girls to do things that he felt a man should do first. This had nothing to do with a sexist mindset, my dad taught his girls to be independent…yes. But above all, he stated that men have a Godly duty to women and they should always be willing, ready and able to assume that role and all that comes with being a man. Provision, protector, and leader.
When it comes to a mate, my father has been that image that I’ve set my standard to. As most young women do, we base the level of respect, kindness, and appreciation on the model of man that is first introduced in our lives. For me, my father has always shown me that a man that loves me unconditionally will always be willing to do whatever he has to for my good. Even when that means doing or saying something I don’t want to hear. I am so proud to have a hard-working, loving, strict, protective Father in my life from day one to now. He’s always been a call away. This year, my sisters and I gathered to celebrate our Father. We say “celebrate” because that is what he deserves. All father’s deserve to be celebrated for their exclusive and most necessary role.
We kicked off the weekend with a mixer of all the Daddy’s Girl’s. Our cousins came together to celebrate their amazing fathers. My best friend, whose father is no longer with us, came out as well and we remembered the joy he brought to her life. Over drinks and appetizers, we laughed and smiled knowing that regardless if we were single, divorced, or married…the men that loved us best were there be it physically or in spirit. We made these awesome cocktails that represented our Fathers well. Strong yet smooth. Everyone enjoyed them and the evening. Here’s the recipe:
I wish all girls knew the joy of having a Father like mine. I honor him, I adore him, and I celebrate WHO he is and WHAT he represents! Cheers to you Daddy for being the Man of my life!
