Name: Berto Calkins | City: Brooklyn, NY | IG: @WhatsGoodBerto
What does being a father mean to you?
Being a father means rising to the occasion to teach, guide and protect your child. For me, it’s really about sharing the lessons that I’ve learned in my almost 32 years of life and also allowing your child to freely express themselves.
Describe your experience with your father growing up and how that impacted you today.
My father stopped being present in my life at a young age. I think that I lost out on having more confidence in my younger years. It’s something that I had to build myself and made sure my daughter had it.
What things did you take from your experience growing up into your own fatherhood journey?
As a father I realized that I needed to be a role model and be real in doing so. Being a role model doesn’t mean being perfect, but rather owning your faults and trying to do better. It also motivates me to do bigger things, so my daughter knows the possibilities life can bring.
Have you had any obstacles on your fatherhood journey?
My biggest obstacle was co-parenting with someone who just had different views of the world than me. Things have definitely gotten bigger though.
What advice would you give others new on their fatherhood journey?
Keep pursuing your dreams no matter what. You’ll still be able to influence your child and the happier you are with your life, the more you can give to your child. Also be patient and enjoy every moment.
If you could write a quick letter to your father, starting with “Dear Father,” what would you say?
Dear Father,
I know you tried and it just didn’t work out. I still got valuable lessons from you even if they stemmed from negativity or positivity. Thank you.
| List 5 fathers you cosign. (Add their IG names) | |
|---|---|
| 1 | idontwannalink_ |
| 2 | badassvegan |
| 3 | ferm_fitness |
| 4 | vigilante_vegan |
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