The following is the opinion and analysis of the writer.
When you think about Father’s day, some see celebration, but for people like me, it does not; this holiday is usually one of the hardest for me. A year and a half ago, I lost my father to a senseless act of violence, and my world hasn’t been the same since. They say the first year of loss is hard and that the second year is even the hardest, and it is true, but I also think about the father’s days that I got to spend with him, and those are the memories I will forever hold on to those are the memories that keep me whole.
I remember my dad as a strong, loving man who played both roles in my life, and it takes a very special man to do that, and that’s just who he was. My childhood hero, and years later in life, he became my best friend. My protector and my teacher, but unfortunately, he didn’t teach me about grief because grief can’t be taught. It can make you feel ugly, it can make you feel weak, it can also even make you dislike certain holidays, and that’s where I struggle, but I am human, and it’s okay to feel those emotions.
There are going to be holidays like this where it may seem like there is no hope, and there are going to be things to trigger that sadness of your loved one, but sometimes we just have to allow ourselves to feel that there is no getting over it and some days we just can’t get threw it, and again it’s ok. This year, I don’t want to celebrate, but I am going to remember the good, I’m going to allow myself to feel whatever it is I want to feel.
There will be some tears shed, but there will also be a few smiles cause I was lucky enough to call him my dad. We are all different and can celebrate any way we want to, but my advice to the people who are grieving their fathers this Father’s Day is to be kind to yourself do what you have to do to get through this day. You are not alone, but most of all, just breathe and remember its ok not be ok.
Every April, the Office of Victims of Crime (OVC) helps lead communities nationwide in their annual observances of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) by promoting victims’ rights and honoring crime victims and those who advocate on their behalf.
We invite you to join us from April 21-27, where Homicide Survivors will host events empowering survivors through workshops, survivors’ stories on hope, and our Annual Candlelight Vigil.
Every year, families in our community are shattered by the loss of a loved one to homicide. Please consider joining us this Arizona Gives Day and donating to our cause. Your contribution will ensure we continue to provide services to Survivors, such as advocacy, support and assistance.
