Growing Up Without My Dad

Reflections on loss and the role of fathers.

When I was younger, my world shifted in a way I could never fully understand at the time. My dad passed away, On Father’s Day of all days, leaving a void in my life that I have carried with me ever since. Growing up without him meant navigating childhood and adolescence without the steady hand of his guidance, without his voice cheering me on, and without the lessons he would have taught me. While I was surrounded by love from family and friends, there were moments when the absence of my father became undeniably evident.

One of the hardest parts of losing my dad at a young age is grappling with the memories I don’t have. I don’t know what advice he would have given me about school, friendships, or the challenges of growing up. Which makes me cherish the ones I do; his laugh or the way he would tuck me in at night. It’s the quiet, everyday moments that I missed the most—those simple, fleeting experiences that help build the foundation of who I are.

Fathers play pivotal roles in their children’s lives, often in ways that are not immediately obvious. They are protectors, teachers, and role models. They help us build confidence, showing us how to stand tall in the face of adversity. For many, a dad’s influence shapes their understanding of respect, responsibility, and resilience. Fathers teach through their words, but even more so through their actions. Watching how a dad treats others, how he handles challenges, and how he loves his family leaves an indelible mark on a child’s heart and mind.