Keira-anne.com

Upon searching the word “father” online, over twenty definitions are offered on the initial search. The fourth definition states that a father is “a man who exercises paternal care over other persons; paternal protector or provider.” Being that my own dad passed away just shy of my 18th birthday, there are a few men who have become like a father to me in the last ten years. None of them, however, can take the place of my dad.

Today is a day to celebrate the men in our lives that offer us guidance, encouragement, words of wisdom, protection, provision and profoundly deep care. My dad was all of those things, but he also took me camping, took me to hockey games, tolerated my music, tried to tolerate some of my friends, loved the cookies I baked (and proved it by eating every last one!), laughed with me, hugged me and at every chance he got, tried to be the very best man in my life.

To all those celebrating with their families today, I wish them the happiest Father’s Day. And though my dad is no longer around, to those who have fostered me over the past decade, I thank you and offer up my love from the bottom of my heart.