To My Little Stars: A Letter From Your Dad on Becoming a Parent
My Dearest H & A,
As you grow older, you’ll come to realize that life is full of monumental decisions, and one of the most significant ones I’ve made was to become a father. I want to share this story with you – the story of how the two of you entered my life.
You see, your dad wasn’t always sure about becoming a parent. At 35, I had a laundry list of things I wanted to explore and adventures I wished to embark on. The thought of being responsible for a child seemed like a hefty roadblock to these dreams.
Not to mention, raising a child appeared to be an expensive undertaking.
It was only at 37, cradling you in my arms for the first time, that I realized how misguided these fears were.
Yes, having a child comes with responsibilities and costs, but none were as overwhelming as I’d imagined. With careful planning, budgeting, and prioritizing, the financial aspect became manageable. And the dreams I thought I’d have to abandon? They merely transformed, taking on new dimensions that included you. Nothing became ‘impossible.’ Instead, I found myself sharing my world with you, experiencing the joy of seeing things through your innocent, curious eyes.
However, I want to be honest with you, my two little stars. Parenthood, especially later in life, has its physical challenges. Energy at 37 isn’t quite the same as it was in my twenties. But this challenge has a silver lining, prompting me to prioritize health and fitness for both your sake and mine.
I write this letter to you not only to share my journey but to let you know that the ‘perfect’ moment is a myth. It’s not about waiting for everything to align or for all worries to vanish. Instead, it’s about being willing to adapt, to reshape dreams, and to embrace new experiences – with love, courage, and a dash of adventure.
Becoming your father was the best decision I ever made, not in spite of the challenges, but because of them. Each hurdle we’ve overcome has made our bond stronger, our lives richer.
Remember, my dear, every challenge is an opportunity for growth, and every fear holds the potential for joy. As you grow up and face your own big decisions, I hope you’ll remember our journey and know that no worry is insurmountable when faced with love and perseverance.
With all my love,
Your Dad