Name: Aljenon Cooper | City: Los Angeles, Ca | IG: @adlcministries

What does being a father mean to you?

Being a father to a beautiful baby girl, named Amari has meant the world to me. She is my rainbow baby; peace after the storm. Prior to Amari, my wife and I miscarried our first child. Experiencing that hurt and pain was something that I wouldn’t wish upon my worst enemy. However, it taught us a lot and allowed us to grow individually and as a couple.

Describe your experience with your father growing up and how that impacted you today.

I have a unique story I was given up at birth by my biological mother and didn’t meet my father until I was a pre-teen. To my surprise there was no resentment or un-forgiveness in my heart toward my father because he came right in and did not make excuses for his absence, he wanted to know me and have a relationship with me; in a sense he made up for lost time. We spent so much time together, he taught me how to drive, he taught me to work hard, and how to provide for my family. My father not only gave of his presents but he gave me the greatest gift and that was his presence. He was there for all the important stuff and random days after school coming to pick me up and spend time with me and teaching me life lessons.

What things did you take from your experience growing up into your own fatherhood journey?

Although there were some dark days in my up bringing, it all worked out for the best of me. I was placed in a good and loving home and a Christian home and that molded me into who I am today. I want to more than anything, to be there for my daughter. I want to teach her about having faith in God, how to be saved money and be financially astute, I want to push her to be the greatest version of her that she can be.

What advice would you give others new on their fatherhood journey?

I would tell new fathers to be patient as this journey is not easy and it’s a learning experience, as there is really no manual on how to be the perfect father. Additionally, be present, we are living in a world where children are so easily persuaded by their friends, the entertainment industry, and society as a whole. Your children need you present in their lives. Sacrifice your time, you don’t want to miss the moments that matter; and, you certainly don’t want your children feeling void of your presence.

If you could write a quick letter to your father, starting with “Dear Father,” what would you say?

Dear Father, I thank you for being the best dad that you could be. Thank you for the long talks, even though a lot of those times, your talking put me to sleep. Thank you for always being there physically and financially. You’ve never scolded me or talked down on me. You have been nothing but encouraging since day 1. I thank you and love you to life.

Name some other fathers you cosign.

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