Name: Latroy Tillery | City: Atlanta GA | IG: @latroy_tillery
What does being a father mean to you?
Being a father means that I have been trusted to pour into and shape the lives of my kids in such a way that they will in turn influence their future families, community and the world in a positive manner.
Describe your experience with your father growing up and how that impacted you today.
My experience with my father growing up, like so many of my childhood friends back home in Brooklyn, was non-existent. He was absent. This has left me with a profound commitment to remain present, active, loving and a positive influence in the lives of my children and wife.
What things did you take from your experience growing up into your own fatherhood journey?
Because I did not have someone to teach me the fundamentals of success – I realize how important it is to cultivate a positive mental attitude and high self image within my children. I believe a lot of what we accomplish in life can be contributed to belief in one’s self. Before you believe in yourself it’s extremely powerful to have others believe in you. That starts at home.
Have you had any obstacles on your fatherhood journey?
One obstacle I’ve faced on my fatherhood journey was a lack of confidence in my ability to meet the expectations of being a “Dad”. Never having the role of a father modeled – I often questions if I could do this the way I imagined it should be done. Once my twins were born, those thoughts have vanished as I focus my efforts on living out my vision every day.
What advice would you give others new on their fatherhood journey?
My advice to new fathers would be to begin with the end in mind. We all are raising our future friends. Instill values, morals and principles into them that you would want and expect from those you associate with. But most importantly – children do what they see us do and not what we say. They value what we value. Govern your life accordingly – and our children will follow suit!
If you could write a quick letter to your father, starting with “Dear Father,” what would you say?
Dear Father,
No words could adequately convey the depth of my love and appreciation for you. Thank you for always being there for me when I needed you the most. Never neglecting me, in fact, pursuing me as I fled in the opposite direction. Thank you for instilling in me a vision for my life and family, for giving me the drive, determination and ability to bring it to fruition. I stand on your promises. I know the plans you have for me. With you by my side, who can be against me. For that I thank you!! (Of course, this letter to my Father is addressed to my Heavenly Father. No child is a bastard and no man is fatherless. You just have to understand Who’s you are).
Name a few other fathers you cosign.
| 1 | @big_jaesun |
|---|---|
| 2 | @clifordgray |
