I fundamentally believe in the power of community. Working in the nonprofit field, I bear witness to it every day. Instead of publishing an annual letter to my dad, who I miss dearly, I want to rally my community to collect stories focused on lessons shared by our fathers.  

These lessons can come in the form of a story, a quote you cannot shake, or something you witnessed. Ultimately, I am searching for powerful and positive examples of fatherhood. I also know not everyone grew up with a father figure in the home. If a stepdad, uncle, teacher, or mentor filled the role for you, please do not exclude yourself from this project. I want to hear from you.  

To add your story to this post, please email natetheworld@gmail.com. Include “Lessons of Our Fathers” in the subject line.  If you want to include a picture, please do so!

My Real Dad by Nathan H. Box  

For me, fatherhood can be measured by presence. It is working extra hours to buy your son a brand new bike. It coaching your son’s little league team. It is constructing a playhouse and pouring concrete for a basketball goal. It is hours spent watching plays and driving across the state to watch your son compete in competitive speech. It is long talks around the kitchen table about war, California, and obligations. It is the pride you feel watching your son walk across a graduation stage. It is accepting your son without reservations and investing in his life. Fatherhood is about being present and actively engaged. Eldon Box is the only father I have ever known. He didn’t bring me into this world, but he left me in it a better and more complete man.  

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