On June 21st, we celebrate and thank the fathers who have sacrificed so much to make our lives better. Working multiple jobs to put food on the table, helping others in times of need, supporting us even in our wildest dreams – these are just a few of the infinite ways fathers have greatly impacted our lives.
In our recent Father’s Day Contest, we gave you the opportunity to recognize your dad’s amazing contributions and to tell us why you think he deserves the world. We received many entries, all of which were incredibly thoughtful and heartwarming. Congratulations to Wendy S. for her winning contest entry! To continue the spirit of celebrating our dads, we’d like to share excerpts from some of our favorite entries to show how our fathers are so important in our lives:
“…He was always a father first… He was a terrific influence, & I find myself saying things to my child that he used to say to me like, “We only get one shot at life, make it count,” “Chin up Kiddo!,” “Pick yourself up & dust yourself off,” “There’s a big difference between want & need,” & “Life is what you make it.” He has helped shape me as a woman, as a mother, & as a contributor to society…”
-Wendy S.
“…He’s inspired me to also become involved in uplifting local youth, and has inspired my son to become an active duty service man. Although my Dad was a navy man, he’s quite proud of his Army grandson. My Dad has left an impression on the world…”
-Joel C.
“…Many people admire celebrities, but my dad is my celebrity. He works hard, is genuine, and shows compassion towards others. He is a man of God. When I look at my dad, I see how I would like to be when I become a woman of older age. My dad has paved the path of the legacy that my family will lead.”
-William L.
“…My dad is the man I compare all others to! He is strong, loyal, faithful, dependable, loving, stern but gentle. Even though he wasn’t by my side at birth, he hasn’t left me for a day since he came home. He is there when I need him… He gives, and he gives, and he gives. And he never asks for a thing in return…”
-Tasha W.
“… My husband has been a wonderful father to our daughter…He spent hours helping her set up her classrooms as a teacher, like himself…watching her beautiful daughter as she acts and sings…Dad-Papa is always there…right down [in] front. My husband was a great teacher, influencing so many young lives as he did [with] our daughter and, now, her daughter. The cycle of love.”
-Bett R.
“…. I get glimpses of the adventurous spirit inside of him and when he occasionally laughs it fills my heart to the brim with joy!… I cherish those times and keep them tucked inside my memory for the times when he cannot…”
-Janice S.
Regardless of how you celebrate this special day dedicated to Dad – whether it’s giving him a unique gift or spending time together in a fun-filled summer day – we hope you take the time to truly appreciate your father’s devotion, selflessness, and care. From the entire MOVA team, thank you to all fathers who go above and beyond for their families, friends, and communities.
Why does your dad mean the world to you? Let us know in the comments.