Name: Mookie Hardy | City: Las Vegas Nevada | IG: @4evermookie
What does being a father mean to you?
Being a father to me means being present rather times are good or bad. Being a dad means giving advice as well as guiding another human being through life. A father is a therapist, coach, and bodyguard all at the same time. Being a father is much more than financial. Every moment of a child’s life matters and a father has the opportunity to make every moment special.
Describe your experience with your father growing up and how that impacted you today.
I did not grow up with my dad. I believe I may have met him 4 or 5 time stand I can remember. My father was a crackhead and institutionalized. I swore to myself I would always be a better parent. Not having my father is a big reason why I am so active in my daughters life.
What things did you take from your experience growing up into your own fatherhood journey?
Being a dad changes my life. I was going back and forth to jail since the age of 12 but soon as I had my first daughter I never looked back. 3 kids and almost 6 years later and I have not seen the inside of a cell. Being a dad gave me a purpose and meaning for living life because I had gave up hope a long time ago.
Have you had any obstacles on your fatherhood journey?
Being a dad is already crazy but being a girls dad is next level. I honestly had to make changes. I had to watch who I allowed in my home which meant I had to cut some people off. Everytime my daughter are away I think about what if? Learning how to not be so controlling and overprotective was probably my biggest obstacle. I still struggle with it today.
What advice would you give others new on their fatherhood journey?
Enjoy every second of it! The late night crying, the diapers, potty training, remember every detail. Film, film, and film!! There are no memories like the ones we create with are kids.
If you could write a quick letter to your father, starting with “Dear Father,” what would you say?
Dear Father, I know I have not spoken to you in a very long time. I would not say it was intentional but I didn’t actually pick up the pen and write to you sooner. How are you holding up in there? Me, I’m good. I have 4 daughters now a 5,3,2 and 8 month years old. I will send you some pictures in the next letter. I know we can’t get lost times back but we can start fresh from here. What do you say old man?
