Dear Dad,

You’re the best dad that I could ask for in so many ways.

When I was little, I remember getting upset because you traveled so often. I specifically remember one day sitting on the front steps, crying because you had promised me that you would be there for something that time (I don’t even remember what the promise was!) What my eight-year-old self didn’t understand was why you were traveling.

It turns out that you were leading a state interest group, making the five hour trek to the capitol city at least once a week to lobby, and to various points around the state for meetings. I didn’t know that you were sparking my passion for government and politics. And I didn’t know that you were saving my school in the process.

After the movement was over, you continued to lead by example. Just like Grandma, you can’t stand to see a soul suffer. When we go on our version of a family vacation, you always end up with a family friend who needs to talk through something. Although this has caused us to be late before, you always do this because they need someone at the moment in time.

I know that it bothers you that you spread yourself between helping people without devoting 100% of your time to our family. However, you’ve been setting a perfect example for me my whole life. By showing me the value of always being there for people, I have made it a point to model that. When people use us, your grace in those situations serves as a reminder for me. You live to serve and can’t go a day without helping people.

Dad, you’ve taught me many skills and ignited many passions. But perhaps the most important one is the value of helping others. Thank you for that.