Dads and daughters

Hey there,

When I was about 19 and into my early 20’s, it seemed my dad was tough on me.

I’d go out to the bar and he’d say, ‘you’re wearing that?’ I felt I dressed classy. My skirts weren’t too short, or shirts too low.

Then I moved away, out of town. After a couple more years of the judgment I felt and his comments to me, I had had enough. I yelled at him, “what do you think I’m doing so wrong? Why are you so mean and disapproving of me!?”

He yelled back, “because I can’t protect you out there! You live far away and if anything happened to you I couldn't get to you quick enough!”

Ahhhhh, the truth. That, I could handle and finally understood where he was coming from. In that moment I felt utter compassion - not just for my dad, but for all other dads with young girls growing into women. Their sweet daughters who were definitely attracting the attention of other men. My dad loved me first, and I could tell he didn’t love letting me go.

I tried to reassure him that he could trust me. That I wouldn’t succumb to the wolves and that he had taught me to respect myself and that I was smart.

I don’t remember many compliments from him on my appearance though. Making money, yes. Advice on cars, you bet. How to deal with my mom, yes.

Before he passed away though, I’ll never forget. He said, you’re a real pretty girl. I was 44.

The point of this message is, sometimes people act negatively out of their own insecurities and fears. Don’t take it on as if there is something wrong with you. Maybe just ask them. You might be surprised.

All my love,
Kristi  💛

Everything Begins Within