Steve’s Story

Have you ever been asked what your greatest accomplishment is? When I have been asked that the answer is easy.  Becoming a husband and father hands down is the greatest accomplishment that I will ever achieve. I learned this early on in life. I mean I can remember when I was 8 or 9 thinking about how I would be as a dad. I had such a desire at a very early age. 

I am sure this is not normal, maybe it was 30 or 40 years ago, but I am not so sure now.  I think the really cool thing is that I did not have a positive father figure. Matter of fact just the opposite. My dad was an alcoholic, smoked 3 packs of cigarettes a day and physically abused me, my mom and brothers and sisters.  I truly believe that this negative influence was the spark that made me want to be the best dad. My father showed me what not to do. His example provided me with exactly what not to do and be. I love my dad for this. I am the dad I am today mostly because of him. 

Now with that in mind why is being a dad my most coveted calling? Well I could go on and on but here are a few highlights: when your infant solely relies on you for their life. When your baby looks into your eyes and says “daddy” for the first time. Their first steps, when they start school and bring home a rough family portrait of mommy and daddy. What may seem small and insignificant are my most prized treasures. The successes you have as an individual will never feel as great as the accomplishments of your children. When you go to a teacher parent meeting and they tell you that your child is amazing, I promise that feeling is the best. Being there as a dad for wins and losses. It’s not always perfect but in the times they struggle they look to you for help and guidance. Watching them navigate life and being their life preserver when they need something to hold onto is better than any promotions at work or titles that you may reach. I am not saying personal accomplishments are not good, but for me they were the means to helping me reach my goal of being the very best dad I can be.

Written By: Steve Shepherd