Name: Carmen Blanks City: Atlanta GA | @carmenwashere
Dad’s Name: James Blanks (@blanksj2)
Describe your relationship with your Father and how did that impact you?
My Dad and I are really close. My parents are my best friends. We speak every day. I look to him for guidance. He has shown me countless times that he’s got my back. I feel protected in his presence. At my highest or lowest, I know that I’m supported and loved not just by him telling me but also through his actions. Having that type of connection with him is important to me, and I cherish it.
What’s the best thing you’ve learned from your Father?
When I was a teenager, my Dad taught me how to play chess, and it became something fun we both played together. During these moments, he wasn’t just teaching me how to move around on the board but rather using it as a metaphor for how to move in life. I learned many valuable lessons, including critical thinking, patience, and how to adapt in various situations that I still carry with me in my daily life.
What struggles did you face in your relationship with your Dad and how did you get through them?
When I turned 18, that was a struggle for our relationship because I went off to college and moved out. At that time, I thought I was grown and ready to take on life. In his eyes, I was still his little girl. I realized it wasn’t just a transition for me but it was also for him. We talked through it and moved forward. I’ve always and will continue to have the utmost respect for him, no matter what. Our bond is unbreakable.
What has your relationship with your Father taught you about what to look/not look for in your partner?
My Dad has set the bar pretty high. His words and actions align. He’s consistent, supportive, and a leader. He defines to me what a man should be. He’s taught me how a man should court and treat me but also how to treat someone else because relationships are a team effort. All these things have influenced me on the type of partner to have.
How has your relationship with your Father shaped the woman you are today?
What I learned at a young age about discipline, hard work, and responsibility, often through him incorporating the sports I was involved with, has prepared me within my career and personal life today.
If you could write a short letter to your father, starting with “Dear Father,” what would you say?
Dear Father,
You told me you prayed for a daughter, and I’m thankful God chose me.
I love that I get to spend this life with you and collect jewels of wisdom along the journey.
Your hard work and dedication to being an excellent father have not gone unnoticed. I know Grandma and Grandpa are so proud of the man you are. I hope to pass the lessons you’ve taught me to my future child someday.
Just like you have my back, I have yours!
My love for you extends beyond this life. May God continue to bless your path.
– Carmen
