An Open-Letter Before The Wedding To The Father Who Raised A Strong Woman

Dear Dad,

As I jot down these words, a thousand memories flash through my mind, each more precious than the other. It surprises me and makes me giggle that all those tough lessons that once made me angry, make me laugh today and I understand why they were important. Today, I am moments away from starting a new chapter in my life and all I can think about is how every little detail and every little lesson from you, prepared me for this day!

As I start my new life, I want to thank you for the one you have given me. I know now how much effort and dedication it takes to make things perfect and I just want you to know that you will forever be the man I love the most because you have made me who I am and you have taught me how to hold my head high while being myself. I love how you pampered me but I love it more that you let me out into the world to learn my lessons, all the while preparing me for what was about to come.

I want to thank you for silently correcting me but never judging me. It takes a lot of courage to watch your daughter fall and pick herself up and you have always given me the space to do that. Yet, there have been times when I have fallen a little too hard and you have extended your hand without a second’s delay. Thank you Dad for never letting me feel that I was any less than my brothers. It takes a strong man to raise an equally strong woman and like I always said, “My Daddy – Strongest”!

Dad, you have never hidden anything from us and that has taught me that even the most perfect man of your life can have imperfections and you can still love him with all your heart. Thank you for teaching me how to love and accept people as they are and not letting the shortcomings come in the way of our peace and happiness.

Simultaneously, you taught me how I should treat myself and how others should treat me. I know now where I should draw the line. Dad, you have taught me what a marriage should be like and how it takes two to make it work! You have also given me the strength and love to create a family of my own and embrace another as my own and for that, I will forever be grateful.

I know you may have your doubts about my man but please remember that I saw something in him that reminded me of you. And that’s when I knew that he was the one. While traditionally fathers tell their daughters that it is going to be okay; today, I want to tell you that it is going to be okay and even if it doesn’t, you have given me enough strength to deal with whatever comes my way. It may be difficult to see your daughter wave goodbye, but I will still call you when I can’t understand my taxes or have a flat tire and in that moment you will know that I will forever be your little girl!

Love,
Your Not-So-Little-Anymore Fighter!

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