A LETTER TO THE MAN I’LL MISS FOREVER

Have you ever written a letter to your parents?

This is my first time, and I’d like to share it with you. Maybe you’ll learn something from it. Maybe it will inspire you to strengthen your bond with your own father. I hope my letter opens your heart to the idea that children don’t need expensive toys, designer clothes, extravagant parties, or a luxurious life to feel their parents’ love.

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Dear Papang,

How are you? I often wonder what my life would have been like if you were by my side. Growing up, I was taught that an ideal father plays many roles in the family: the leader, the protector, the provider, the builder, and the foundation of love.

I never really got to know you well. However, from what I can recall, you were a role model to my three brothers, who followed in your footsteps to become Marine Engineers. You were hardworking and sacrificed your own comfort to provide for us. You showed us love by spending time with us whenever you came home after months of working overseas. You showed us how to be a loving partner by making our mother feel special. One of my favorite memories of you is seeing you and her dancing in the middle of the house. In those small yet meaningful moments, you showed us what it meant to be a father.

It’s been so many years since you’ve been gone, and I still wonder how different our lives might have been if you were still here. Would you enjoy taking care of your grandchildren? Would our family bond have been stronger? Would we have made you prouder? I carry so many “what ifs” in my mind because you were taken from us too soon. My six-year-old self didn’t fully understand the impact of your absence back then.

But now, I know in my heart that you’re in heaven, watching over me and my brothers. I want you to know how thankful I am—for you, and for God’s divine presence in our lives. Our loss was great, but I believe God had a reason. He has continued to be our Father, guiding and loving us in His own extraordinary way.

Today is a special day, and I’m happy that so many people are celebrating it. Do you know why? Because it’s Father’s Day—and it also happens to be your birthday. So, Happy Birthday, Papang, and Happy Father’s Day, too. You are always in my heart.

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