Joe

Dear Joe,

                 You sprung into my life after a dramatic move, a dramatic move from Illinois to Texas. At first, I was unsure of everything, even you. Ever since I was young, my father was never there. I would receive letters from my father, it was never the same. Letters that never received an answer. I always wondered why reach out to him? He could not actually be there for me. It is not like I could just call him when my heart was breaking while tears ran down my rosy cheeks. When I slept all day in a dark room with an aching heart. The first heartbreak is always the worst leaving you feeling empty inside where it should be filed with warmth. He didn’t hear how my voice would crack when it was hard to find words reaching out for help.

Finally, I could reach out for help. Nor take photos and see me in my first prom dress. He didn't see me get my first job. It was a huge deal. To see the excitement in my eyes, joy in my voice. I was also so nervous about this job, it took a week for my nervousness to calm down. He couldn’t pick me up from my long late night shifts from work. To be more exact my 12-14 hour shifts when I truly needed someone after a long night. Anytime I needed a ride to get place to place. He could not see when I made varsity soccer, to fell the proudness from a dad. Do you recall all these memories? My father was not there. My dad was. You stuck around, through it all. Even when you didn't have to. You've only been raising me for almost five years now. Through the years you've shaped me into the individual that I am today. A strong headed independent female. It doesn't even seem long ago, five years have flown by. You were the one who made the biggest impact in my life and only in five years. You accepted my siblings with me as your own, although you have five kids of your own. They've been the best siblings I could have ever have. You see anyone can be a father, but you are a dad. You became MY dad. Not only to me but to my brother and sister. You stepped up to be my dad. I will always cherish that and not take it for granted. You see I want you to be the one who walks me down the aisle. I want my future kids to call you grandpa because the best dads always get promoted to grand. I want to be able to help when you need it. You are my dad. These five years I had a dad to lean on when I felt lost. Finally, I had someone to lean on. You have a big heart that you passed down to me. Thank you, Dad, for everything you have done.

I love you, Sincerely, Destiny