As Chris, my business partner, and his wife Amanda are just hours away from bringing their daughter into the world, it’s a great time to reflect on our loved ones and how they enrich our lives. Sure, our families have their special blend of dysfunction, drama and dilemmas; but our families also shape who we are and are an amazing source for love, life and laughter.
My own daughter, Crandall, turns 25 this week. As she embarks on her next quarter century, I want to share a father’s pride and hope. A letter to my daughter:
Dear Crandall,
I’m not sure if you will ever know how much you have enriched my life. It’s impossible to put into words. Suffice it to say, I’m a proud dad. I feel so blessed.
You’ve grown into such a beautiful young woman. It’s funny…you are everything I could hope you could be (and more), but not at all like what I expected. What I mean by that is that you are definitely not a little clone of me or your mother (which is such a relief for countless reasons). Somehow, you were able to become yourself and be authentic to who you are at a very early age. Not an easy task for most (an any age).
I think it’s your sense of right and wrong, your sense of fairness and equality that I’m most proud of. You are guided by a moral compass that is both compassionate and open. You are willing and determined to live out your convictions, even when it’s a more difficult path to take.
- You are grounded without being stuck.
- You are optimistic without being unrealistic.
- You are focused without being obsessed.
- You are strong-willed without being closed off.
You have excelled in school and work. You have always been willing to step up and do the work, never having an expectation that you deserved something you hadn’t earned. You are willing to put in the extra effort. You do what is best, even when it’s not what’s easy.
You are the kind of friend who others need when times are tough. You have an uncommon spirit. And with all your talents and gifts, you are humble and gracious.
You inspire me.
As you move forward into the next stage of your life, I know that you will bring a sense of life and love to the things that you do. As your father, my wish is that you:
- Take time to love yourself and realize the special gifts you bring to the world.
- Embrace your passions and bring your energy to those things that matter most.
- Enjoy the moments…it’s often the little ones that provide the fondest memories or the most lasting impact.
- And most of all, call your father (often)!
I always knew that being a dad was the most important job I would ever have. And I only had one shot to get it right. I remember when you were about 8 or 9 years old. We were at the Strawberry Festival in Ashland, Virginia with Grandma enjoying a beautiful day. Folks were gathering to the sounds of a band as we strolled by. We stopped to listen.
I stepped behind you and started swaying and dancing to the music…holding you as I rocked. You turned around and said, “Dad, you’re embarrassing me!” And I responded, “Good, then I’m doing my job.”
Sending you my love and gratitude. Happy Birthday Kiddo!
Love you,
Dad
