Some of us did not get lucky enough to grow up with a father around. Some fathers may have died, abandoned their families, etc. Whatever the case may be, it has never been easy. My father died when I was very young and it has been an uphill battle ever since.

Growing up, it was always so much easier to just pretend it never happened. People would ask about my dad and I would tell them that he had died a long time ago. They would say "I'm sorry, I had no idea" and move on with their lives. I would always reply with "it's okay," even though it has never been okay. Sometimes it was so much easier to try and be okay with it just so it does not affect your daily life.

Even though it is no longer as hard to accept as it used to be, the most special moments are when I am reminded of how much I wish my dad was around. At my senior prom, when they called for the father-daughter/mother-son dance, my mother and I danced and cried together. It was so difficult because even as fun of an event as it was, that is one of the times you wish your father was there to witness. I know for a fact that the day I get married is going to be another one of those days. A question that has always crossed my mind is "who is going to walk me down the aisle on my wedding day?" Even though I do have influential men in my life and a wonderful mother that would be willing, that is one of the moments you wish your father was there to experience with you. It never gets easier, you just learn to deal with it and live the life that would make your lost loved one proud.

Though it has never been easy growing up without a father, I always have to remind myself that everything happens for a reason. I am so thankful for a strong and beautiful mother who was able to fulfill the role of mom and dad for a very long time. I now have a wonderful step-father that has never tried to take my dad's place and treats me like I am his own. I am truly blessed and I know my father is always smiling down on me with love.

Lastly, some people never realize how significant always having a parent around is until they are gone. Individuals that lose a parent know that anybody can be taken in a blink of an eye, with no warning whatsoever. So whenever you are around your parents, grandparents, siblings, etc., hug them a little tighter than usual, because you never know when the Lord is going to want them back.