Michaela Anderson

My dad and I in Kualoa Ranch, Hawaii during an ATV tour.

Padre, Táto, and Pére. All these words mean the same thing: Dad.  You are my favorite person in the entire universe. I’m sorry I haven’t written you this letter sooner, but there is no better time than now.

Dear Dad, 

My love for you is like an unspoken promise buried deep within the roots of an ancient tree, always quietly growing with strength that can never be broken.

You are my rock. I can tell you anything, and you always have the best advice when I need it. Thank you for always being a listening ear and offering support in difficult situations. 

You can’t sleep with a thick pillow, and neither can I.

You like to sit in the back of a classroom, and so do I.

Your ankles crack when you walk up the stairs, and so do mine. 

I can’t help but smile when I notice the little ways I am like you; it makes me feel more connected to you, regardless of where you are. 

The next time someone asks me what I want to be when I grow up, I will say I want to be like you. I aspire to live my life like you.

I vividly remember one car ride where I was driving, and you pointed out something I could have improved upon. Even after I snapped at you because I wasn’t in a good mood that day, you remained calm, apologized, and rephrased it differently.

Instead of criticizing me when I make stupid decisions or how difficult I might act, you choose to lead by example with confidence and compassion. A rare quality not seen in many of today’s parents. 

Your amazing qualities as a father have unintentionally set the bar incredibly high for any man I come across in my future. You’ve taught me what it means to be loved and respected. You’ve taught me the importance of honesty, patience, and empathy, not just in your words but in your daily actions. 

It’s not just about finding someone who meets my standards; it’s about finding someone who understands the kind of love and commitment you’ve so effortlessly modeled for me. 

You are the steady current in the ocean that has carried me through the toughest of storms, always present, guiding me toward calmer beaches. You always do what is best for me.

I’ve only been in your life for 15 years, but you have been in mine forever. I don’t know what your life was before me, but I don’t want to know what my life will be like after you. In a well-ordered universe, we would be in each other’s lives forever, but I know I won’t always have you. Just remember that your unconditional love and empathy for me will not be forgotten. 

Dad, you are one of those parents who only come around every so often. I will be eternally grateful I am your daughter. 

Sincerely, 

Your daughter