10 Things I Wish My Kids Knew About Fatherhood

 

Celebrating Father’s Day with Love, Lessons, and Legacy

Fatherhood doesn’t come with a manual. No step-by-step guide. No rewind button. But what it does come with—if you’re open to it—is a heart full of lessons, late-night reflections, and moments that stretch your soul.

This Father’s Day, I want to share 10 things I wish my kids knew about what it truly means to be a father. Maybe one day, they’ll understand. Or maybe they'll remember these words when they become parents too.

1. I Don’t Always Know What I’m Doing

Behind the confident voice and the steady hands is a man figuring things out one day at a time. And that’s okay. Loving you never required perfection—just presence.

2. Your Tears Break Me

I’ve smiled at your first steps and cheered at your victories. But nothing shakes me more than seeing you hurt. When you cry, a part of me cries too—quietly, in prayer.

3. I Still See the Baby I Held

Even as you grow taller, stronger, and more independent, I still see that little bundle I held in the delivery room. That memory never leaves—it just becomes part of how I love you now.

4. I’m Not Just Teaching You—You’re Teaching Me

You’ve taught me patience, humility, and how to love unconditionally. Fatherhood isn't a one-way lesson. You’ve grown me more than I could have imagined.

5. Saying “I Love You” Never Gets Old

Some dads struggle with words. I used to be one of them. But not anymore. If there’s one thing I want echoing in your heart long after I’m gone, it’s this: I love you, no matter what.

6. Sometimes, I Wish I Could Do It All Over Again

Not because I’d change things, but so I could savor them longer. The bedtime stories. The tiny hands. The messy drawings. Time moves fast, and I often wish I could press pause.

7. Providing Isn’t Just About Money

Yes, I work hard to give you what you need. But I also hope I’ve provided laughter, listening ears, and safety—a place where your soul could breathe.

8. I Pray For You Every Day

Even when you don’t see it, I’m lifting your name up to God. Asking Him to guide you, protect you, and remind you of your worth when the world forgets.

9. I Fail, But I Keep Showing Up

I’ve raised my voice. Missed the mark. Made mistakes. But I’m still here—learning, apologizing, growing. Not perfect, but present.

10. You Are My Greatest Legacy

Degrees, careers, and achievements matter—but they fade. You? You’re the story I’ll leave behind. If you carry love, faith, and kindness into the world, then I’ve done something right.

💙 Final Thoughts

Fatherhood is sacred. Messy, beautiful, and deeply humbling. If you’re a dad reading this: keep going. And if you’re a child reading this—know that your father, whether present or passed, left imprints on your story.

Happy Father’s Day to all the dads who love quietly, lead faithfully, and live for something greater than themselves.