Name: Kalvin Bridgewater City: Fort Worth TX | Instagram: @Kalvin.Bridgewater
What does being a father mean to you?
Describe your experience with your father growing up and how that impacted you today.
My experience with my father growing up was tumultuous. The first time my dad said he loved me was after my mother’s funeral when I was 18-years-old. Growing up not knowing if your dad loves you or not affected me greatly. Now as a father myself, I know how impactful those words are as a father. I make sure my daughter hears those words from me and feels them daily.
What things/tools/gems did you take from your experience growing up into your Fatherhood journey today?
I grew up in a tight-knit community. The type where everyone knows everyone by first and last name. If I was acting up 9 houses down, a neighbor would make sure word got back to my parents but not before tongue-lashing me themselves. Becoming a father myself reminded me the importance of community. It takes more than just 2 parents to raise a child. It truly takes a village, as cliché as that sounds. That mantra has often been echoed by women but it’s time that us men realize the importance of a village too. I started a nonprofit for dads that turned into a much needed brotherhood.
Have you had any obstacles on your fatherhood journey? If so, explain.
What advice would you give other Fathers on their journey?
If you could write a quick letter to your father, starting with “Dear Father,” what would you say?
Dear Father,
For 30-something years I really didn’t know you. as an adult, I realize that you never expressed your love to me because you never received it from your own father. The older I get the more I understand the concept of childhood trauma and generational curses. I appreciate you for being the grandfather my child deserves. Let’s continue to build and communicate.
I love you pops.
