by Marilyn M. Irwin

Today I did something that I have never done before. I bought a card from the “Happy Birthday Dad” section. See, I was brought up by an amazing, single mother and never needed to peruse the card options with the “dad” labels. It was never something I longed to do or something that made me sad or filled me with a concern that I was missing out. I was always perfectly happy skipping those cards and moving on to other options labeled “Uncle” or “Grandfather”. These card options have always been ones I read and chose from twice a year- birthdays and Father’s Day. The men with these titles hold a special place in my heart. They were the male figures I admired and went to for any type of paternal advice that the matron of my home couldn’t give because she was, well, the matron. My uncle and my grandpa both raised quite amazing kids of their own so I figured, they had enough experience to help me with my life too. They had good references if I ever needed them. They have always been there for me and I am blessed that they could make up for one’s lack.

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