Just like any parent, a dad also deserves a praise and a thank you. Although we cannot called them our "birth givers" dad's have a major, underestimated role in their offspring's life, whether they are present or not. They shape their kids into the people they are today. So here is what I would like my dad, in Polish, Tatuś, to know.
Dear Tatuś,
I wish I could say I remember when you first saw me, but I don't. I was too busy enjoying the warmth of your embrace-Mama told me you had tears in your eyes when you first looked at your little baby Belcia and gave me that nickname.
I wish I could remember my first steps, my first fall, my first word. But I don't- Mama told me that you were with me every single one of those times saying, "I love you, baby Belcia".
I wish I could say I know what you were thinking when I went to my first day of elementary school, middle school, high school, and then college. I'm sure your mind was going crazy, thinking, "where has the time gone?". You automatically think back to holding you baby Belcia in your arms.
I wish I could say I know what your thoughts were when boys started appearing in my life. But I do know that if one of them would step out of line, you would either put them back in line or tell them to leave me alone because you don't want to see your baby Belcia hurt.
I wish I could say that I know who my husband is going to be and say for certain that he will treat me like the princess Belcia I always was to you, but I can't. I can only hope and pray that you raised me to know the fool's gold from the real stuff.
I wish I could tell you how big of an impact you have made on my life. There were so many times in my life when I didn't understand your actions and words (and honestly I don't think I will ever be able to fully understand them). But I know it is because you care too deeply for your baby Belcia.
I was always a happy baby and now I can say that it's because of you. Your positivity was always radiating just as it is radiating now and as it will be forever. You were so proud to call me your daughter just as I was incredibly proud to call you my Tatuś.
This is something every father should hear from their daughter. So Tata, thank you.
Love,
your one and only baby Belcia