06/18/2023
As Father's Day approaches, I find myself reflecting on what it means to be a dad. For many people, being a dad starts with the moment they hold their newborn child in their arms for the first time. But for me, being a dad has been a journey that has taken a different path.
You see, I've never had any biological children of my own. Instead, I've had the privilege of being a foster dad to kids from all walks of life, as well as a host dad to foreign exchange students from around the world. And while I may not have experienced the joy of holding a newborn in my arms, I can tell you this: the kids who have come into my life have truly made me a dad.
Each child who has come into my home has brought with them their own unique set of experiences, challenges, and joys. Some have only stayed with me for a short time, while others have been with me for years. And through each and every experience, I have learned what it truly means to be a dad.
Being a dad is about so much more than biology. It's about being there for your kids, no matter what. It's about loving them unconditionally, even when they make mistakes. It's about being a role model, a sounding board, and a comforter. And it's about being proud of them, no matter what they achieve or where life takes them.
I am so proud to call each and every one of my foster kids and foreign exchange students my kids. They have taught me so much about life, love, and what it means to be a family. And while our family may not be a traditional one, it is one that is filled with love, laughter, and a deep sense of connection.
So this Father's Day, I want to give a shoutout to all the dads out there who may not have had the traditional path to fatherhood. Whether you're a foster dad, a stepdad, a granddad, or any other kind of dad, know that your love and dedication are just as real and just as important as any other dad's. And to all the kids out there who may not have had a traditional dad, know that there are people out there who love you, who care for you, and who are proud to call you their own.