Name: D.A Sherron | City: Brooklyn NY | IG: @DASherronmin

What does being a father mean to you?

Fatherhood means responsibility. I have made an irrevocable and irreplaceable bond between my wife and my daughter that places upon me an intentional responsibility to nurture, nourish and be an example in thought, word and deed.

Being a father has changed my life. I have always been a surrogate or a spiritual father and mentor but having my own child has taught me the importance of presence. Fathers build identity and my daughter is my first priority to shape her imagination and intuition as it pertains to manhood.

This is a sacred trust that I do not take lightly.

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

I was blessed to have a remarkable relationship with my father, as well as my grandfathers and great grandfather. Although my parents divorced when I was a senior in high school, the lessons and language that was embedded in me regarding manhood, mission and even maturity had been imparted in me from my childhood.

For example, every day before my brother and I left the house, my father would ask us, “Who are you?” We would respond, “I am a Sherron.” Then he would ask, “What does that mean?” At which we would reply, “Honor, integrity and respect.” Afterward, we would hug our parents and walk to school. Looking back, this call and response has served as the impetus for a life marked by character, convictions and a commitment to my calling. I will forever be grateful to my Dad for that and the infusion of wisdom from my grandfathers, whose wisdom guides me this very day.

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

Honestly, I’ve taken all of my experiences, particularly the wisdom that I’ve received from the plethora of strong Black men I had has role models, mentors, and sages along the way. I was blessed as a childhood prodigy preacher to be molded and mentored by many seasoned older Black men. I would always ask questions, listen and gleam from the brilliance and the bravery of the men in the churches I attended, served and fellowshipped with. My neighborhood had a lot of families and those men and their stories shaped my journey into fatherhood. I knew what it took to be a husband, a father and a provider. As a result, my journey with my wife has been smoother then many because of the blessing and benefit of that exposure.

Have you had any obstacles on your fatherhood journey?

My major obstacle was adjusting to fatherhood and holding that in tandem with all of the other areas of my life. My wife and I have tremendous responsibilities as pastors, business owners and other ventures we’re pursuing. Learning how to ride the wave and bring support to my wife as she healed, attend to my daughter, as well as my other responsibilities has taken time. Thankfully, the pandemic enabled me to slow the pace down some but it is still a balancing act. 🙂

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

I would advise all new fathers to spend as much time with your wife, or child’s mother as possible. Provide as much emotional support. Sometimes saying nothing but being present makes all the difference in the world especially in the beginning phases.

I think men sometimes don’t understand all of the toll our wonderful women warriors endure as they bring our bundle of joy into this world.

Support. Support. Support and self care for your own well being is important.

It is all tied to sacrifice but over time you’ll develop your own rhythm and find best practices that work for you and her and the baby. Every journey is different but being attentive and available is a great step on the way.

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

Dear Dad,

Thank you for your example and your insight. Although we had some challenging times during our journey, you have always been one that has had the tenacity and fervency to talk, share and never fail to articulate your love.

I am proud to be your son and to carry and convey the principles from our family into the next generation.

Thank you for everything.