Life has a way of not always delivering what is expected.

Growing up I tried to have a relationship with my father and ultimately learned that having no expectations might be the best plan, in an attempt to prevent the pain of disappointment. When I found out my father was no longer on this earth in 2020, it was hard to comprehend a loss that I never really had to begin with. The pain was inevitable, but this hurt in a unique way, like the loss of a dream. It was the end of the story that I had always hoped could have been written differently. 

We are each born from a Father, true, but not everyone receives a Dad. 

Sometimes the path given is not the one chosen. Sometimes the cards dealt are not the right match to play the game. 

Sometimes instead of a Dad, God gives you a Mom that will not only fill the void, but will stretch her heart to share a greater love than two parents combined. 

Sometimes God gives you a Brother that will not only fill the void, but will be an anchor, a protector and will always be there for you, even from afar.

Sometimes God gives you a Grandpa that will spoil you with ice cream dates and make you feel safe and loved.

Sometimes God gives you Uncles that will always be there to provide support, whenever and however needed. 

Sometimes God gives you a Step-Dad that will choose the role, provide for you and your new family. 

Sometimes God gives you a Husband that will rewrite the definition of Dad. He will love you and your children with all his heart & soul and will choose to never miss a moment of their lives. 

Sometimes God gives you a Father-in-Law and Papa that are the kindest, loving Dads, and have shown their boys an amazing example of how to pass on their love in immeasurable ways.

Sometimes the roles we are given are not what we expected to play, but they are more meaningful than we ever know.

Sometimes when something in life isn’t as expected, God is working on His plan that will not only fill the void, but will be so much better than you could have imagined.  

Then one day you realize your Father was there all along, loving & providing for you every step, all the way from Heaven ✨

Happy Father’s Day to all those that fill the role with love 💙