Name: Jordan White : Bowie, MD | @J_Izeah
What does being a father mean to you?
Being a father to me means everything. It changed my life. I was 19 when I had my daughter and she came at a time in my life when I wanted to give up. A time I felt lost and no since of direction. She gave me a reason to live when I first seen her. Being a father is something I take serious. Me being a reason my daughter smile means the world to me.
Describe your experience with your father growing up and how that impacted you today.
What things did you take from your experience growing up into your own fatherhood journey?
After my daughters mother’s and I went out separate ways, it was ugly in the beginning. I didn’t know how I was going to get through the adversity. But I kept my eye on the prize which was BEING THERE. I never gave up, every time I got to see my daughter I took advantage of every second spent. Whether it was church, feeding her, walking to the park. Through all the negativity dealt, I was blessed with full custody which showed me I could do this.
Have you had any obstacles on your fatherhood journey?
Of course, I think every father goes through obstacles when being a father. Financially I didn’t know how I would get her diapers some days. Some days I had to sacrifice thing i needed to Anne sure she was okay. But it shows you and grows you as a person. It grew me as a young man to realize it’s just not about me anymore. Even going through the court I went in there confident, but knew still in doubt the system does not favor us fathers at all.
What advice would you give others new on their fatherhood journey?
Advice I give every father who’s new is to show your child love and make sure through whatever you go through with the mother, make sure your child or children are taken care of. Don’t focus on the extra outside noise, focus on what’s most important. Also, understand every day is not going to be sunshine. Everyday is not going to be pictures shown on IG and social media, also you are going to want to give up. But don’t, it’s worth it.
If you could write a quick letter to your father, starting with “Dear Father,” what would you say?
Dear Father,
Being the third child out 9, one thing I realized about you is the love you shown for us all. I am blessed to have through the years gain a relationship that could not be broken. When I became a father you was there for me and never once judged me. You was there from birth and I knew I always had somebody to call. Thank you for your guidance, love and patience with me. Thank you for being the best father one could ask for. We all have made mistakes, but it never stopped Gods plan in your life. Thank you, I love you, from your son; Jordan.
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