Name: Aaron Pierce City: Chula Vista, CA | IG @Piercing_definition
What does being a father mean to you?
It means maturity, responsibility and accountability. It means setting a good example and doing the things you know need to get done even when you don’t feel like it because someone is depending on you and looking up to you
Describe your experience with your father growing up and how that impacted you today.
I did not grow up with my biological father but i was lucky enough to have 3 very great father figures in my life. I was raised by my step father , uncle and grand father who were all respectfully hard working black men and put family first. Having them around helped curb my anger of not having my my biological father around and instead of repeating the cycle i built a fire inside of me to become better and be the best father i could be when the time came.
What things did you take from your experience growing up into your own fatherhood journey?
Patience is a virtue. Having a young child you must have patience It is something i haven’t had in my life and have worked on very hard since the birth of my daughter Self awareness has been key for me as well. I had to take a good look at myself and decide not only the type of father i want to be but person as i will be my daughters leading example. Everything i do now is a product of her and for her so i think a lot harder before making choices now as my perspective on life has changed.
Have you had any obstacles on your fatherhood journey?
Many from work to family issues money issues you name it. Me and my daughters mother are currently not together which took a toll on me personally and mentally. It was hard being away from her and my daughter for long periods of times and she did not make it easy. I have had to shift my commutation and approach as i can only control myself and to work to try and improve our relationship for the sake of our daughter and thankfully my efforts have showed some positive results as of late. Life doesn’t stop and when it rains it pours but my family
And i have been resilient. I have learned that it’s ok to not have all the answers and it is not weak to ask for help but actually a sign of strength and courage and when you do so you will be surprised the amount of support and resources you will receive.
What advice would you give others new on their fatherhood journey?
As a father you have rights. You are your child’s parent as much as the mother and do not ever let anyone or anything make you feel different. Do not be afraid to ask for help and if you do not receive it right away do not give up. There is no manual for fatherhood we all will have our own journey but there are good people and resources out there to help you when you are in need.
If you could write a quick letter to your father, starting with “Dear Father,” what would you say?
Thank you. I am not mad at you and no longer hold a grudge. I wish that we could of had a bond but you chose otherwise and for that it made me stronger. I would not be the person i am without you unfortunately it was through your absence. Somewhere deep down inside i still hope you are proud of me and i want you to know that i became great father not in spite of you but because of you.
Interested in joining our Fearless Father campaign? Click here.
