An Open Letter for my One Great Dad

The celebration of Father's Day might have ended a week from now but appreciating the people that make you feel like 'you' does not need any special day. As an expression of love, this is an open letter of appreciation for my Dad.

For the love and hate I have, this is a letter for my one great dad.

It wasn't easy to say that my Dad and I are on good terms. Simply, we aren't. Despite my efforts or his, there will always be a thin line that makes us feel disconnected. It was almost a natural thing, like a Yin & Yang element in our relationship.

Growing up, I was fully aware of his very existence. From his efforts to support us fully and his flaws that were all ingrained in my system.

One could say that he was a sort of 'tiger' parent to us. His support system will never have an inch of encouragement, for his words ought to make us realize how capable we are.

His words are powerful and could make us feel pain, intended or not.

He will never say that he cares. Something I badly wanted to: his approval and gentle manner to assure us he'll be there no matter what. Yet, he had never mentioned anything in instances we needed his affection the most.

He never said he care. His words are too strong to make us feel that he does not. Growing up, he trained us to speak up for ourselves by uplifting us through his cold manner. He knows that we are beyond the fear we feel for others. He will push us to our limits, to find the courage and strength that we can fight for ourselves. Of course, it wasn't the best thing to do, but I learned much about the cruelty of life through those eye-opening experiences.

With all of these things, I would admit, I hate him because he's not the typical 'tatay' or Filipino Dad. Oh, how I wish things work like how is it for my friends. Yet, time changed everything.

He wasn't the best but he progressed, both as a Dad and as a person which astounds me. At first, I questioned his entirety and his role in my life due to his not-so-typical treatment and parenting. The years passed by with him opening up, being closer and softer to us.

I realized his intentions. I understood why he was that way and I love him for every flaw he was. His uniqueness made me prouder of him.

His love may not be heard, but we feel it— I feel it and that's what's important.

Thank you, Pa.

Thank you for every morning you'll wake up just to assure us that we can go to school on time. Thank you for each meal we had with you that you prepared with all your best. Some of it may be good or something I despise the most, but your efforts would never be taken for granted by us.

Thank you for the life you've given. Your wisdom, strength, and sense of things we don't quite get. Your words may have pierced me at times but you made me feel whole at times I was too lost.

Thank you for everything. You had been a big part of my life, like Ma, you two make my world go 'round.

May you remember that you're my One Great Dad who I love and adore.

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I am francescawrites, a writer who shares her soul through writing. I create articles based on the things I think & experience. Also, I cover up articles about topics that interest you and me, under the sun — name it all!

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