She sent me a straightforward text one evening asking, “Can you pick me up?” No justification, just a silent plea. I didn’t hesitate—I drove straight to her.
She had a tiny bag with her and was calm but exhausted when she got into the car. She said, “Thanks for always coming,” after a few moments of stillness. I know I can rely on you. Those remarks really got to me.
They served as a reminder to me that the real meaning of fatherhood is to be a dependable and consistent presence in a child’s life.
What I already knew—that being a father is about love, commitment, and choice—was reaffirmed that evening. Every pickup, silent discussion, and tiny moment counts. Because I selected her and still choose her every day, she sees me as her father. And she also picked me in exchange.
