Frederick Artis Says Fatherhood Means “Presence over presents.”

Name: Frederick Artis City: Washington DC | Instagram: @YouKnoDaName

What does being a father mean to you?

It’s means to be guide, provide, continually walk with, give wisdom, and love.
Screen Shot 2022 05 20 at 6.17.29 PM

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

Growing up my father was around but not present. I’ve learned so much from him in all of our moments together. I pride myself of giving my children the hands on love that I desired to have from my father. It impacted me so much that presence over presents is a big motto for me to measure up to.

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

Presence over presents. Think all you say don’t say all you think Never disown Never go a day without telling/showing love Trips Restaurants Everything my momma taught me is what I want to instill in my daughter

Have you had any obstacles on your fatherhood journey?

Yes I have going through one now. Just got a great career job and transitioning so now daycare is an issue because my old schedule I was able to watch her and work now I can no longer fill that obligation with new work hours and it’s kicking my pockets.

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

Cherish every second and don’t be afraid to set goals, plans, boundaries. Your voice matters ‼️ Go get joint custody of your child as soon as they are born. You don’t have any type of custody of your child until you go and file. Understand that your relationship with a child’s other parent affects the child when you aren’t around so try to maintain a balanced and healthy co parenting partnership.

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

Dear Father, You really picked the right woman to raise your son to become the man that would become a father. Your absence birthed strength and your presence always duly noted and very much appreciated. Though you were a call away when I wanted or needed you my only thing against you is that you wouldn’t go harder for me to be an example.

 

dear fathers-i dad different

Interested in joining our Fearless Father campaign? Click here.

Purchase our exclusive “I Dad Different” shirt today. USE CODE: DIFFERENT at check out. Click here to buy now.

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY

for content updates, resources, access to virtual sessions, and more.

LISTEN TO THE DEAR FATHERS PODCAST

WATCH OUR PODCAST EPISODE WITH SHAQ

SHARE YOUR FATHERHOOD STORY WITH US

Dear Fathers
Dear Fathershttps://dearfathers.com
Dear Fathers is The Premiere Media Platform dedicated to telling stories of black fathers from all angles.

Related Articles