I have always been a Daddy’s girl. For as long as I can remember my relationship with my father has been a great one. I woke up this morning thinking of my Dad and what my sister and I would do for him on this special day to honor all that he is for us.

My Dad is a simple man. It never takes much to please him. In fact, I can’t think of a single situation where he has asked my sister or me to go above and beyond to meet his expectations. The only thing he has ever requested of us is our love and respect (if anyone deserves them, it's him!).  The one thing he is adamant about is that we meet our own expectations.

As I travel the country and meet Pinkies from all walks of life, many of whom have families, I am inspired (to say the least!). Listening to stories and being present in the lives and love of such families has led me to some invaluable realizations. One is that I would REALLY love to have children at some point in my life. Another is that one of the most valuable gifts a parent can give their kid(s) is acceptance. 

Giving the Gift of Acceptance

We all come into this world unsure of our futures, experiences, lessons and, mostly, our own greatness. As a parent, it is a precious gift to honor a child - or any individual - for exactly who they are.

So, this Father’s Day I would like to honor my Dad for loving me exactly how I am. No more, no less. For accepting all of my attitudes with love and all of the bad boyfriends (eeek!) with understanding and patience. For allowing me to find my own way and for helping me pick myself up when I fall down. For being there to celebrate the greatest of times, just after marching beside me through the worst.

It is crystal clear to me what unconditional love and acceptance are because of my Dad. I can honestly say I don’t know where I’d be without him.

Cheers to Dads across the land for loving your children for all that they are and for all that they're not.  Thank you for simply being present in our lives.

Happy Father’s Day!

Megan Monique Harner
 

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