Name: Darren Williams | City: Plano TX | IG: @D_will1990

What does being a father mean to you?

Being a father, and a husband, means everything to me. I wake up with my family on my mind and go to bed with them in my dreams. There is nothing I am more proud of in this world than the family my wife and I have created.

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

Growing up my father was my best friend. I played football from youth until college and he never missed one game. His example as a father being their for his children has been instilled in me.

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

So far I learned to tell my daughters I love them as often as I can. My dad and I didn’t have that kind of relationship growing up. But I think that, especially with girls it is important to say those words. Even though they are still babies I know the understand and they react accordingly.

Have you had any obstacles on your fatherhood journey? If so, explain.

We have had many obstacles so far. We currently have no immediate family here in Texas where we live, so it makes it more difficult. My wife also had severe pregnancy complications which through God’s grace she was able to overcome and give birth to two beautiful healthy babies. Also I am in the military and travel a lot so that adds another challenge to our lives.

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

My advice to new fathers would be to approach every day with love. Things will get rough you will be sleep deprived, nervous, anxious, upset, frustrated but as long as you respond to each situation with love everything will turn out fine.

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

Dear father,

Thank you for always being there for me. Even back when I was young and even more so now that I have a family of my own. You and I both know that I was a very rebellious child so I thank you for having the patience to not kill me back then. Just kidding, but seriously thank you for everything you have done for me and my daughters, your granddaughters, we love you.

Name some other fathers you cosign.

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