Name: Jibri Perry City: San Antonio TX | Instagram: @Jibri.Perry
What does being a father mean to you?
Describe your experience with your father growing up and how that impacted you today.
What things did you take from your experience growing up into your own fatherhood journey?
Have you had any obstacles on your fatherhood journey?
Of course. I spent 23 years in the military and was away from my daughters a lot unfortunately. So, We all fall short of excellence and that definitely includes me. I have made decisions, that in the moment seemed amazing. However, that same decision turned out to be terrible. But you can’t allow those moments to define you. As a father, kids just want your time and attention, and they want (without being able to express it other than acting out) a consistent presence. They don’t care if you had a bad day, made a horrible decision, or whatever. They just want to know, will you be there the next time.
What advice would you give others new on their fatherhood journey?
Understand the magnitude of what this means. You are responsible for another person. That young person will look to you for everything. They don’t require much… only that you be there. What you lack in experience, I guarantee you will make up for in love. Strive to do and be a better man and father. Do it for yourself and in turn, you will learn that it goes hand in hand with being a better father. Speak positive affirmations in their lives… pray for them… love on them. They need you and you need them.
If you could write a quick letter to your father, starting with “Dear Father,” what would you say?
Dear father… I forgive you. I know you tried your best but I couldn’t understand that when I was younger. Now that I’m a father, I understand how easily our paths could have had similar outcomes. Thank you for trying and thank you for unknowingly showing me the correct path not to take. I don’t blame you and I pray that we meet again. I love you.
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