I suppose an article shouldn't have to be posted to properly show my appreciation for you, dad. Although, in my defense, it is very easy to get caught up in the hype of life as I'm try to figure out my own path. It's true, you're no cookie-cutter perfect father, and believe it or not, I admire you most for this. Here's a list of eight qualities you hold that makes you an imperfectly perfect dad:
1. For Giving Me A Big Heart
I think that anyone who truly knows you knows that you genuinely have a heart of gold. As tough as you may come off, you're actually a big softie. You have cried to me more than once, unlike a lot of fathers out there. Anyone with a big heart knows that that's OK when it's over something that means a lot to you. And trust me, your daughter admires you so much for that.
2. For Always Believing In Me
Although I used to be ashamed, I realize now that I was much more in touch with my creative side than my athletic side growing up. However, daddy was always on the sidelines or in the crowd encouraging me to do my very best in anything I tried.
3. For Being Selfless
I have came across many people in college that's made me realize what a rare quality this is to find in society. It's most definitely a dog eat dog world. You would offer your last dollar to anyone who needed it, and anytime I pay it forward, you are the one I think about.
4. For Loving My Mother
When times were tough, you never gave up on the love that you've had for my mother since your high school days. You will never realize how much this means to me.
5. For Pushing Me
You have always pushed me to succeed. You have taught me to go at whatever I'm after at full speed, while being smart about getting there. A strong, independent, driven women is what you wanted me to be.
6. For Accepting Me
Sure, I was no star athlete like my brother was. You were always supportive and accepting of me regardless. You probably don't remember this, but I remember you saying "You just have an eye for things like that" when speaking of my "photography" as a young teenager. You never pushed me to go to church if I didn't want to go, and you always wanted me to put my heart into everything I did while supporting whoever I was becoming.
7. For Being Open
Thank you for being real with me; for telling me "Honey, I'm sorry, but I will never stop smoking. I love you very much," and for liking all of my friends and boyfriends I've introduced you to, but knowing that I would be just fine without them. You've given me a hand of advice that's only a phone call away whenever I'm in a tough spot. After all, daddy always knows best.
8. For Not Being Perfect
There is no such thing as an ideal or perfect dad. You've helped shaped me into someone I am proud of today. I don't show or tell you enough, but without you, my life would be nowhere as interesting or beautiful as it is.
