Name: Joe Ramos | City: Buffalo NY | IG: @joeisinfamous

What does being a father mean to you?

Everything. Being a father to me is the most important title that I carry. It’s not only a responsibility, but a passion + joy. Being a father is a title and action. It’s teaching, caring, loving, and nurturing.

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

My father was very direct, passionate, and militant. He taught us without raising his hands, although he did raise his voice when needed. My father was present. Daily. I always knew that once I became a father, I would be PRESENT. In every sense of the word. My dad taught me how to love, provide, and teach, all things I strive to do daily for my daughter.

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

Being present.

My father was THERE. We weren’t poor, but we we were far from rich. My dad taught us that true love and happiness came from appreciating what you did have and blessing others when you can. The biggest thing I learned was the value of being there. Not only physically, but mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

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

Show up. Be there. Take pride in being a father. Love. Learn. Love. Learn some more. And don’t give up. It’s all a process. Like everything.

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

Dear Father, THANK YOU for teaching me how to provide, love, adore, and cherish my family. Thank you for teaching me how to MAKE IT HAPPEN. Thank you for teaching me how to wake up and work hard daily. I didn’t realize how much you taught me until I became a father. Thank you, I Love You Pops!

Name some other fathers you cosign.