I was never really a fan of the term “daddy’s girl,” until I realized that I totally was one. And not in the way that you may think. My dad doesn’t buy me everything I ask for, or willingly hand over his credit card if I bat my eyelashes. My dad is the guy that I watch funny cat videos with, text about the news, and dance around my room listening to Pitbull with. I wish I could say I was joking about that last point, but nope…my dad loves Pitbull.
Growing up as an only child, I’ve always been really close with both of my parents, but I will always hold a special place in my heart for my pops. (He doesn’t like when I call him that, but sorry Dad; I get to call the shots in this piece.)
Whatever your relationship with the father figure in your life is, there are a few things that every girl can admit to loving about their dads.
- They always have our backs.
If any guy ever tries to mess with us or decides that it’s a good idea to break our hearts, our dads will convince them otherwise. Who needs a whole army of angry friends when you have your dad to go up to your ex and say, “Hey buddy, I think we need to have a chat.” (Boys – if any dad ever says this to you, prepare for one of the worst conversations you’ve ever had. Perhaps bring earplugs, something to cover your face with, or maybe even tissues.) It’s your dad’s mission to protect you and your heart. And boys, this will make sense to you when you become a father and have a daughter of your own.
- They have that softer side that every girl needs.
While a hug from mom is great, there is nothing like seeing your dad outside of his hard exterior. I saw my dad completely differently after he gave a speech at my high school graduation party and cried. It was at this moment that I realized that I was his only priority. He needs to come off as the tough guy, especially when someone makes us upset, but when it comes to our needs, he is always there with a bear hug and a shoulder to cry on.
- They explain sports without making us feel stupid.
I just don’t understand sports. When I’m watching a football or hockey game with my guy friends, filled with soda and hot wings, I hate having to pretend that I know what’s going on and feeling that my mouth is on fire. (Why do guys like things so spicy anyways?) Anytime I ask what’s going on, I get some lame answer or an eye roll, indicating that I actually am that stupid when it comes to sports. When I watch sports with my dad, however, he always explains what’s going on, and even gives me a little nudge when it’s time to cheer.
- They tell the worst, yet the best jokes all at the same time.
While Dad’s jokes would have been totally embarrassing at the class Christmas party in fifth grade, I actually feel proud telling his bad jokes to my friends. I feel like I’m bragging about a really funny friend that I’m close with that they don’t know. One of my favorite jokes of his takes place every time we drive past one of those creepy adult marts. He always says, “Have you heard they are having a sale? Men’s pants are half off!” (Cue awkward laughter, but then realize that that’s actually pretty clever.)
- They encourage us to take risks, and even end up on our adventures themselves sometimes.
Our dads encourage us to step out of our comfort zones, take on new challenges, and follow our dreams. They bring out our adventurous sides, and will even come along for the ride sometimes. I never thought that I could run 5 miles, or like sushi, or major in journalism, but my dad was there through it all, constantly pushing me to try new things.
My dad says that I’ve taught him a lot, but he has no idea what I’ve learned from him. I have my dad to thank for the person I am today. He introduced me to all of the things that have become a part of my identity. So Dad, if you’re reading this, thank you. Thank you for showing me a whole world of opportunities, and for holding my hand the entire time. I am eternally grateful for all that you do and all that you’ve helped me become. Thank you.
Featured image via Gabby K on Pexels
This article couldn’t be more true. Recently I’ve been struggling with a few of my classes so I called my dad and told him I was dropping my minor because I thought it was too difficult and I wasn’t good at it. My dad listened to me cry on the phone over how I couldn’t do it. A little background on my dad, he’s an anesthesiologist so he deals with a lot. He said in his first rotation in med school, he saw two children pass away from cancer. He said, “Do you think if I quit when that happened, I’d be where I am now? You have to persevere through it, even when you want to give up. Now I’m lucky enough to get the chance to help those who need it.” Things like this make me very thankful for my supportive and hard working father! I’m definitely a daddy’s girl!
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