I was a Father’s day gift to my dad back when I was born on June 15, 1991, 28 years ago. I was born on Father’s day giving a man, Bo McKean, the title of a father.
Even though I was technically his gift that day, he is a gift that I celebrate every day. I have my father’s boisterous laugh, button nose, and Hawaiian roots. I strive to be a dynamic story-teller like he is. I have always desired to be strong in body and mind because from day 1, my dad could outwit and out-strength anyone I knew.
My favorite memory was being a part of building my dad’s 69 Camaro. Being only 6 at the time, I was probably more in the way, but my dad always welcomed me to take in his space, his hobbies, his passions, his world which became mine.
My dad was underneath the engine, caked of motor oil and fingers stained black of grease, and I wanted to be greased-stained and reeking of motor oil if it made me feel closer, made him more proud. I remember him asking me to pass him tools, and I passed him whatever I could carry which were never what he actually needed. I think of those times and that memory and not once did I feel in the way, all I remember feeling was needed. I knew he needed me more than those tools.
My dad is superman, a voice of wisdom, a protector, a comedian, a mechanic, a graphic designer, a dancer, a singer, a fighter, an environment-maker, a perspective-shifter, a memory-creator, a force to be reckoned with.
If you have ever met my dad, you will not forget. He has a way with immersing you into his stories and memories making you feel like you were there.
My dad taught me that it is safe to be unapologetically myself.
He has taught me that it is safe to be honest and wise with the words I choose.
He has taught me that it is safe to protect what I love.
He has taught me that it is safe to love laughter.
He has taught me that it is safe as a woman to be self-reliant and resourceful.
He has taught me that it is safe to be creative.
He has taught me that it is safe to dance like no one is watching.
He has taught me that it is safe to fight for what is right.
He has taught me that it is safe to make the environment that allows my soul to thrive.
He has taught me that it is safe to shift perspective for more positive ones.
He has taught me that it is safe to create memories worth remembering.
He has taught me that it is safe to be a powerful force that brings change.
My dad has taught me that I may be 4 feet and 10.5 inches but that does not mean that I am small or should live small.
Thank you dad for making me who I am today.