Name: Nathaniel Griffin | City: Atlanta GA | IG: @nate.g_thevp
What does being a father mean to you?
Being a father means EVERYTHING to me. Children come from their fathers, so it’s the father that knows the best way to raise them. Being a father is a privilege because you get to guide and influence ones life which is priceless. Being a father is a way of guaranteeing you’ll still be here once you pass on.
Describe your experience with your father growing up and how that impacted you today.
Growing up as a preacher kid has its pros and cons. My father instilled serving and obedience in me. Turning the cheek and being concerned with a life hereafter instead of loving the life you have was deemed priority. Today I’m telling my kids that they can do and achieve anything they set to do. My kids know it’s IMPOSSIBLE to know god without knowing yourself. My kids believe in themselves and it shows!
What things did you take from your experience growing up into your own fatherhood journey?
Being there for my kids, and being apart of their lives is the most important lesson I took from my childhood. Instead of humbling my kids I want my kids to know and believe they can do anything they set their minds to.
Have you had any obstacles on your fatherhood journey? If so, explain.
Deployments while serving in the navy for 12 years with kids was a huge obstacle. Getting divorced and leaving my three oldest kids in Va while I’m in Ga was devastating. Meeting my second wife while she was 6 months with another guys child wasn’t bad a first, but then 3 years down the line the biological father decides to show. I turned negative situations positive and I now visit my kids throughout the year and my step daughter has 2 great guys in her life.
What advice would you give others new on their fatherhood journey?
Just be there for them. Don’t let anyone else raise your kids. Kids come from you so you know what’s best. There’s NO price on a life.
If you wanted to write a quick letter to your father, starting with “Dear Father,” what would you say?
Dear Father, thanks for helping me in my journey to adulthood. Thanks for instilling I’m me what was instilled in you. I know we both share different insight but we both share a common goal. I’ll always love you for giving me life.
Name some other fathers you cosign.
@bound276, @biggmo11, @owencarl79, @iammbg, @enterdwaynement
