Hey there, champ,
You might recall that I penned a letter on Mother’s Day, asking you to be on your best behavior so your mom could truly enjoy her day. This note, however, is a bit different. It’s all about me, which gives me the freedom to express myself more openly. Plus, let’s be honest—until football season kicks off, Sundays don’t hold much significance for me. Not even this one.
You guessed it: this Sunday marks Father’s Day. But here’s the thing—there’s no need for you to fret about it. I don’t want anything from you. No ties, no handmade cards, no golf lessons, and certainly no subscriptions to a beer-of-the-month club. In fact, you don’t even need to put on your best behavior (though, honestly, you should always strive for that). Just relax.
I know—it’s odd, right? As a kid, I was baffled that my dad, your grandpa, never wanted anything for Father’s Day, Christmas, or even his own birthday, apart from the classic wish for his children to get along. To a child, gifts are everything, so it was impossible for me to grasp why he wouldn’t want any. But now that I’m in the father role, it all makes sense.
First off, let’s face it: kids aren’t the greatest gift-givers. Secondly, as a parent, you quickly realize that the most valuable gifts aren’t found in boxes or envelopes. The best presents come from the everyday moments—the hug I receive when I tuck you in at night, the laughter we share during playtime, or the precious 30 minutes of extra sleep you allow me every so often. None of these moments are planned or tied to specific occasions; they’re simply you being you. That’s all I truly need, day in and day out.
Just because this Sunday is labeled Father’s Day doesn’t change anything for me. In reality, it’s just another Sunday—no more special than any Saturday or weekday. I don’t require a fancy brunch to honor my so-called sacrifices or dedication, especially from you. Why should my child reward me for simply being a decent dad?
I’m confident in my role as your father. I’m not trying to boast, nor do I think I’m the greatest dad of all time, but I know I’m not a bad one, simply because I love being your dad. I don’t need your acknowledgment for fulfilling what I’m supposed to do, as Chris Rock would say—being a dad isn’t about recognition. So you can take a breather.
Now, you might be wondering if this means you can skip the Mother’s Day niceties as well. That’s up to your mom. (Spoiler alert: probably not.) And don’t think we’re going to do away with Father’s Day either. These holidays aren’t just for the ones being celebrated; they’re for you to enjoy, too. Celebrating loved ones is a joy, much like the excitement you get during Christmas. Seeing you happy is the only gift I need this weekend.
Well, that’s the only gift I need from you this weekend. Because Father’s Day? That’s really your mom’s responsibility.
Much love,
Your Dad
P.S. I wouldn’t say no to one of those beer-of-the-month clubs, or how about some tickets for Mad Max: Fury Road? Just mention it to your mom.