Dad,

You have had so many different jobs in your lifetime, but being my father was always your first priority. You are my biggest role model in life and not just because you are my dad; I have watched you change people's lives and give to others effortlessly. I hope I can emulate the kind of empathy like you do: the ability to give someone their dream home, make everyone feel important, and to help someone go to college. The list is endless, but you change lives daily.

I wish I could verbalize my gratitude for you. I know, I have not always made it easy on you, and you still stuck with me. You played a role in both the masculine and feminine persona —for me. I learned to drive while I was just 11 and enjoyed it! You said, “It’s time you learn how to drive, in case of an emergency.” You believed in me, as a 11-year-old, to drive a car! I did it too and did not think twice about it.

Now, it is time for me to proceed forward, unto the unknown. Your words resonate with me everyday and it gives me the aptitude to proceed. While I enjoy being in your presence, I need to get out there and start living my life. I am getting curious, about everything. I am fortunate to be able to travel extensively—to see how other people live on a daily basis. Because of you, my entire life is blessed.

I love hearing about all your stories; I could hear them repeatedly. I never met my grandma Hardy, but I can visualize what she looked like because of your stories. I love the story about both of you driving the “muskrat”(AKA, mustang). You both ended up in jail because of that damn “muskrat.” It brings me much delight when I hear you talk about her.

“You are something special and you are going to amount to something.” I know I have to be consistent and really follow through on things. I am accustomed to the way in which you live—and I am trying to duplicate some of those practices, onto my own life. I have my own calendar book—like you taught me and use it daily. You have opened my eyes—to see and meet so many different individuals. When I think of you, it instantly brings a huge smile on my face.

Thank you for loving me, even during the times when I don’t love myself. When I feel like there is no one else in the world—you will always be there. You are my biggest supporter and cheerleader. I have had you in my life for nearly 21 years—wow, it’s been one hell of a ride. People only get a glimpse of you, but I’ve had the pleasure to really get to know you. I feel like I’ve already been exposed to so much and it’s only just begun. Thank you, for making this fearless little girl, into a fearless young woman. It’s true when they say, “A daddy, is a girl’s first love.” Happy Fathers Day, to my dad, and all the other dads out there!

-Paige