I don’t typically write about Father’s Day.

For me, it has always been a complicated day because I do not have a relationship with my own father. But as I watch my husband father our boys, I am reminded of how important fathers are.

And honestly, I have been thinking about how hard it must be to be a Black father raising Black boys.

This is not to diminish mothers at all, but that is not what this post is about. Today, I want to give honor where honor is due.

Fatherhood is not easy. Men carry so much. They are expected to be strong, but not too hard. Gentle, but not too soft. Present, but still providers. Protective, but not overbearing. In a world that does not always give Black boys the benefit of the doubt, I imagine the weight of raising them well is heavy.

So today, I want to give props to my husband. I see how he loves our boys, teaches them, corrects them, plays with them, protects them, and shows up for them. I do not take that lightly.

I am also blessed to know some great fathers, grandfathers, uncles, mentors, and father figures. Some had strong fathers of their own. Some became what they never had. Either way, their presence matters.

So take a few moments today to say thank you to the hardworking dads and father figures in your life.

Your love, sacrifice, presence, and consistency are seen.

Happy Father’s Day.