Dear Nat,
You're growing up to be a beautiful person, full of grace and unashamed to pour out love to those in your life. I'm proud to have the privilege of hearing you call me 'daddy' everyday. And I'm blessed beyond measure to be able to see how much you love and value me unreservedly - it means everything to me.
The other day, I sat there sending out resumes with the weight of the world on my shoulders. There's something about the job search process that makes you reflect on whether everything you've done so far has been worthwhile and valuable, and when you're in the middle of it, you feel about as unwanted as a stray mongrel standing in the pouring rain.
You sat quietly next to me, drawing and colouring, and turned your head to look at me with a big smile on your lips.
You: Hi daddy.
Me: Hi girl.
You: What are you doing?
Me: I'm looking for a new place to work.
You: Do you have to find a new office?
Me: Yes, I do. I need to make money for the family.
You: Can you work from home? I like you home.
Me: No, darling. When I find a new job, I'll have a new office I need to go to.
(You start tearing up and sniffling.)
You: But daddy, I like it when you're here. Why can't you work at home?
Me: I don't think the new office will allow it.
You: OK... (Holding back tears) I'm sleepy so I'm going to sleep now.
Me: That's good, girl.
You: (Your eyes suddenly open wide in a panic.) Daddy, you're going to be here when I wake up, right?!
Me: Of course I will. I'll wait for you to wake up and be right next to you, OK?
(You wipe away your tears, smile and give me a big hug before lying down for your afternoon nap.)
So you see...people always make a big deal about how children need their parents' full attention and love, but just as much as you may have needed me as a father, I have come to need you as a daughter as well.
You've helped to make a weak man stronger, an insensitive man more compassionate, an impatient man more gracious, and an unworthy man more worthwhile.
It's a shorter letter than usual but I think I've said all that I've needed to today.
I love you with all my heart.
Love,
Dad
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