A Message to the Super Dads Out There - We See You

happy father’s day to all the super dads!

Since having kids I have come across a huge number of mom bosses, bloggers, social media hashtags, and countless mom-related movies. I wear t-shirts with motherhood inspired quotes, I drink out of wine glasses and coffee mugs with mom jokes, and my Instagram feed is full of amazing women sharing their motherhood journeys. In my daily life I’m surrounded by my tribe of moms who lift each other up, and support one another through every toddler tantrum. This feeling of unity we share is truly remarkable. But, is it the same for all the dads out there?

Where My Dads At?

My husband shared recently that he feels there is a lack of support for fathers in the media. We see lots of advertisements clearly geared towards mothers. And, we often witness the disappointing portrayal of dads as less capable than their counterpart. Being a woman and a mother, I hadn’t put much thought into whether the scale is weighted more heavily to one side. But, I do know that I have this amazing network of resources, and I want my husband to feel supported too. If I can log into social media and immediately find a group of like minded mothers; dads should be able to do the same. After all, parenting is hard and we all need friends to complain about our kids to.

We See You Dads

In our household, my husband works and I’m home with our two boys. I’m incredibly grateful for this dynamic, and the financial burden my husband carries does not go unnoticed. Many dads have to work multiple jobs to provide for their families. This time away from their kids is a sacrifice that is not overlooked. Some dads feel called to serve, and risk their lives for the safety of not only their own family, but every family. This noble career path is not unseen. Other dads set aside their own career aspirations to help their spouses achieve their goals. That act of selflessness is deeply appreciated. Each of these dads is a hero in his own way.  

Thank you to all of the amazing dads out there. You set the greatest examples for our little ones. Through your love and actions, they learn what it takes to be a gentleman, and to appreciate the meaning of family. In the spirit of spreading gratitude, here is a letter to all the super Dads out there (but to one in particular):

Dear Dads,

I’m here to tell you that you are seen, you are appreciated, and we love you. The sacrifices you make to support your family don’t go unnoticed. You have a partner and little ones who are behind you every step of the way. When you say goodbye each morning, we know the weight of the world is on your shoulders. When the workday ends we know you wish to be present, but it can often be difficult to switch gears. We know you may long for a few moments of quiet, or a conversation without a million interruptions. We know you go to bed thinking of the day ahead. We know you often wake with thoughts of unfinished projects, and your continual to-do list. We know you work hard to provide this beautiful life we lead. We know you have grand ambitions, and you will achieve every one of them.

Through the endless sleepless nights, interrupted conversations, and cancelled dates- you remain our pillar. You allow yourself to come second, or third, or even farther down the chain depending on the day. You show up, you participate, and you love hard. You are the dad we dreamed we would parent with. You make this crazy, messy journey so much better, and you balance us in a way no one else can.

Thank you. We love you. We see you, Dad.