A Father’s Day Reflection: Honoring the Men Who Shaped Us

Father’s Day brings a mix of love, memory, and reflection. Our story, like many families’, isn’t simple. It’s layered, imperfect, and deeply meaningful.

After our parents divorced, Dad suddenly found himself raising three young daughters on his own. A single father trying to hold it all together—navigating work and a small business, parenting, school, and the whirlwind of raising girls. But he did his best and tried to instill in his girls the value of hard work and family.

Looking back, I realize just how much he shaped who we are. He was not an easy dad, and despite working hard, money was tight, and there were always chores to do. You would often catch one of us helping him in his print shop to finish a job such as collating papers, making notepads, or whatever odd job he thought that particular child could handle at the time. Housework was often left to us as well. No matter how old or small, there was a chore that fit. We all vividly remember having to pull weeds in the yard or mow the lawn as we got older. Whatever the chore, it had to be done before we could watch Saturday morning cartoons. I assure you, we were never happy about it, and at times resulted in multiple outbursts and tantrums. However, because he insisted and he didn’t let us take the easy way out, he taught us the value of hard work, independence, knowing when to speak up, and ultimately, how to take care of ourselves.

He wasn’t perfect, but what mattered most was that he showed up every day and still does. Whenever we need him or there is something important happening in our lives, he is there. Usually with a camera in hand and a sports cowboy hat on his head. (No….not just any hat will do either!)

Today, we have a strong relationship with our dad. We see him with adult eyes now—flawed, yes, but also full of heart, strength, and humor. He did the best he could in a tough situation, and that love and effort shaped us into the women we are today.

Our story also includes another important man—Joe, our stepfather. Joe never tried to take our father’s place. Instead, he built his meaningful relationship with each of us. He was a steady presence and a supporter. Never leaving Mom’s side and always showing us love for his family.

This Father’s Day, we celebrate both of these men. Our dad, who raised us with grit, love, and a deep belief in our strength. And our stepfather, who chose to love us like his own. Two different men, both irreplaceable parts of our story.

And while we’re honoring the dads who raised us, I can’t forget the incredible father who raised our son-my husband. Watching him be a dad is one of the greatest joys of my life. The way he loves, teaches, laughs, and shows up day after day warms my heart. Our son is lucky to have a father like him—strong, present, and full of heart.

At Mi Madre, we light candles to remember, to reflect, and to honor those who made us who we are. This Father’s Day, we light three—for the men who shaped us, stood by us, and now walk beside our children.

From our family to yours, Happy Father’s Day. However your story looks, may it be filled with gratitude, warmth, and love.