Dear child,
You might recall that I previously wrote a letter on Mother’s Day, urging you to be on your best behavior so your mom could unwind and enjoy her special day. This time, however, I want to address something different. This letter is about me—so I can express myself a bit more openly. Plus, with football season still on the horizon, Sundays don’t hold much significance for me right now, including this upcoming one.
Yes, this Sunday marks Father’s Day. But here’s the truth: you don’t need to stress about it. I don’t require gifts from you. I don’t need a new tie, a crafted card, golf lessons, or even a subscription to a beer-of-the-month club. In fact, you don’t have to be on your best behavior (though I always hope you will be). Just relax.
It might seem odd. As a child, I was perplexed that my father, your grandfather, never asked for anything on Father’s Day, Christmas, or even his own birthday—except for the unrealistic wish for you and your siblings to get along. Gifts meant everything to kids, so the idea of not wanting any was hard to grasp. However, now that I’m a dad, I finally understand his perspective.
First, kids often give less than ideal gifts. Secondly, as a parent, you come to realize that the most precious gifts aren’t found in boxes or envelopes. The best moments are the hugs I receive when I tuck you in at night, the laughter we share during playtime, or the precious extra minutes of sleep you allow me every now and then. These moments are spontaneous and not tied to any holiday; they simply reflect who you are, and that’s all I truly need.
Just because this Sunday is labeled Father’s Day doesn’t suddenly elevate its significance for me. It feels like any other Sunday, Saturday, or weekday. I don’t need a special brunch to acknowledge my so-called sacrifices or dedication, especially not from you. Why would I expect my child to reward me for merely being a decent father?
I’m confident that I’m not a terrible dad. I’m not boasting, and I don’t consider myself the best father ever, but I know I’m doing alright simply because I cherish being your dad. I don’t need your accolades for fulfilling my role, to quote Kid Rock, “Bawitdaba da bang a dang diggy diggy diggy said the boogy said up jump the boogy.” Recognition is nice, but being a father isn’t about receiving it. So, feel free to relax.
You might wonder if this means you can skip showing appreciation for your mom on Mother’s Day too. That’s up to her (hint: probably not). And while I don’t seek validation for being a dad, I recognize that these holidays serve a purpose beyond the honorees. They exist to celebrate our loved ones. After all, isn’t that why you receive so many gifts at Christmas? The joy comes from seeing you happy, and that’s the only present I desire this weekend.
Well, that’s the only gift I need from you this weekend because Father’s Day? That’s a task for your mom.
Love,
Your Dad
P.S. I wouldn’t mind one of those beer-of-the-month subscriptions or tickets for a movie like Mad Max: Fury Road. Just let your mom know.
In summary, Father’s Day is more about celebrating family and joy than about receiving gifts. The best part of being a dad is the cherished moments shared with my child, which don’t require any special occasion.
Keyphrase: Understanding Father’s Day
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