Name: Jael The Great City: Atlanta GA | @jaelthegreat
Dad’s Name: Pastor Robe
Describe your relationship with your Father and how did that impact you?
My relationship with my extraordinary father is EVERYTHING. I am beyond grateful that I was blessed with a Dad who has shown me the true definition of unconditional love. Having a positive relationship with him has shaped my self esteem, the way I view myself and the world. The impact expands beyond time and too much for words but I will do my best and to keep it short.
There is nothing that anyone can say to me to make me feel less than or to not believe that I am one of God’s GREATEST creations because my Dad validated me before anyone got the chance to plant any negative seeds. His impact on my life shows up in so many ways. One of the most important ways was growing up seeing him do what he loves and is passionate about and I am now doing the same thing.
What’s the best thing you’ve learned from your Father?
How to love without condition and judgement. To allow people to be who they are and decide if I want to participate AND that I don’t have to if I don’t want to.
What struggles did you face in your relationship with your Dad and how did you get through them?
Growing up in a two-parent home, I think it’s natural to be team mom when you are younger. I didn’t understand the value of having such an amazing father.
I don’t remember having struggles with my dad honestly. What I do remember is being in college and dating this guy who I found out was cheating on me. I remember when I found out I was talking AT my dad about it.
I was so upset and said something like why are you all (men) so selfish and such liars etc. I remember his face in that moment and him not knowing what to say.
I stormed off but I never forgot that moment. I understand now that watching his daughter in pain stunted him in that moment and he would rather say nothing than something that could potentially make things worse. I of course got over it lol and could not care less where that guy is today. I say the humanity in my dad and looking back it was beautiful.
What has your relationship with your Father taught you about what to look/not look for in your partner?
My dad told me, if a man can’t at least do what he does for me, do not waste my time. He also taught me that I can have what I desire. Of course, choosing a partner with character, integrity and all the things that matter inwardly were instilled in me as well so I know for a fact that if there is one GREAT man left on this planet that is who I will attract when I am ready.
How has your relationship with your Father shaped the woman you are today?
It shaped who I am tremendously. How I treat the men in my life has been shaped by me having a positive male figure.
It is very obvious to men and women that I was raised by my Dad and that is such a compliment to me. It has also shaped how I love, how I view love and how I move with such grace and confidence in this Matrix we live in. I live beyond it because of my relationship with my Dad.
If you could write a short letter to your father, starting with “Dear Father,” what would you say?
Dear Father, I am so GRATEFUL to God that you were chosen to be my Dad. I love you beyond words. You have been a true example of what unconditional love looks like. Your heart is so big and everything about you inspires me to be the absolute best version of my self. You have been a blessing to so many people throughout your life and you continue to be. I pray that your latter is greater and that God continues to show out in your life. You are one of the greatest men in the world. Your impact is eternal. I love you. Ja`el The Great.
