Michael McPherson Says As fathers we impact our children on so many emotional and social levels.

Name: Michael McPherson : Boston MA | @_mike_mack

What does being a father mean to you?

To me being a father means to be a protector, a teacher, a provider, and a friend. I think most of all I want my daughters to see me and feel safe and secure at all times. Nothing gives me greater joy than we see each other after being apart for any given amount of time and they look overjoyed to see and run into my arms.

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

I didnt have a great relationship with my father he actually passed away a few months ago. His life was riddled with substance abuse and early childhood trauma. When I was young I couldn’t process why he wasn’t in my life but as I got older I understood why he struggled so much and I learned to forgive him. That has made me a more compassionate and forgiving person.

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

I’ve learned how deeply I impact my children’s lives. I can see how they look at me, how much impact my words have on them, and how much they depend on me for emotional development. Since I have daughters I can even see the difference between how they react to me as opposed to their mother. I can see just how important it is for them to have a loving father in their lives.

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

Being a father is a responsibility that must not take lightly. As fathers we impact our children on so many emotional and social levels. Don’t underestimate your impact.

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

Dear Father, I know you tried your best. I forgive you.

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