The Different Forms of Fathers
When we think of a Father, we instantly think of our biological Father. However, a Father can and does mean different things depending on the family's situation. A Father figure can be many different people in your life: a teacher, A coach, a family friend, and in some circumstances, a Stepfather. This is the case in my family. To be clear, a Stepfather does not replace your real Father, but they take on the love, responsibility and care of the child. Which is, in my opinion, a truly selfless thing to do.
My Stepdad has been in my life since I was five years old, and I couldn’t be more grateful for him. He has been there for so many things, big or small, good and bad. He was there while I was learning to ride a bike, finally being allowed to play sports, struggling through math homework, various camping trips, among many others. What means the most to me though is how much he has been there for me through my vision loss. He always told me that “We will do whatever we have to get your sight back, and we will do whatever we can to make it better”. And he truly meant it. From setting up a bed in the car after my first eye surgery, going out of his way to get me accessible technology, helping me learn how to use a mobility cane and, as time went on, showing me that I have the confidence to move away, be independent and get a University degree. Most recently he supported me in getting a Guide Dog. He has always encouraged me, motivated me, and supported me in everything I do.
My Stepdad is the most kind, caring, funny, encouraging, positive, hardworking person I know and I wouldn’t change him coming into my life for a single day. He has always been the perfect ear to listen, the best shoulder to cry on, and his jokes never fail to make me laugh. He is a really fun person to spend time with - from our many coffee / McDonalds dates, driving around and talking, to dancing around the kitchen, I always walk away with a smile on my face.
So as Father’s Day is approaching I ask you all to remember to tell your father figures how much they mean to you. It seems that Fathers Day tends to be viewed as not as important as other holidays, which I hope will change. After all, Fathers are the ones silently supporting and holding up the family in the background. So I wish all father figures a very happy Fathers Day, you all deserve to have a relaxing enjoyable day with your families!
by Jillian Sloane