dear dad

during my childhood, you taught me about tools. this lead to me being my own handy man.

You taught me about cars and engines. i miss how i set on your lap while you drove, pretending to control along with you. i miss falling asleep on the couch and waking up safely tucked into my bed.

during my teenage years we never saw eye-to-eye and always seemed to bicker.

we never spoke anymore and car drives alone with you were awkward. it was a blessing if two words were spoken. however, during my break-ups you somehow found ways to guide me and cheer me up. well, even gave me lesson... which i never followed thank to you for the stubborn genes you carried over to me.

most people said that i was a replica of you and i never wanted to believe it. simply because at times i felt replaced by my younger siblings.

however,

the most important thing you have taught me, is what a man is.

for many years i thought i would run away from you, yet i found the man exactly like you who later became my fiancé. and through this, i got to understand you better. to see things that i blankly stared at.

you taught me to be independent, strong, proud, stubborn, a risk taker and what it meant to love and be loved.

you taught me me responsibility, stability and resilience.

you taught me that regardless of your age, you never to old to chase your dream.

you taught me how to hustle for my wants and needs.

you taught me how to love and hate at the same time but still have the good out way the bad.