Dad

With Father’s Day this weekend, “Dad” by Christian Robinson arrived at just the right time.

One page stopped me in my tracks:

“Dad... makes mistakes.”

As a child, I was very close to my father. As a teenager, we grew apart. Looking back now, I wish I had understood what this book captures so beautifully: dads are human beings trying their best.

Today, as a father of two incredible daughters who have grown into remarkable women, that line resonates differently. I have not always gotten everything right, but loving them has been one of the greatest joys of my life. I am proud to call myself their dad.

When I shared this book with my students, the room filled with connections. They talked about bike rides, bedtime stories, funny moments, mistakes, and all the little things their fathers do that matter.

This beautiful picture book reminds us that fathers do not have to be perfect. They simply need to show up with love.

Happy Father’s Day to all the dads, grandfathers, uncles, and father figures who are doing their best every day.