Look Who's a Senior

Truly the richest, most rewarding blessing of my life is being a father. And not just being a father, but being "Daddy" to my very special daughter Vogue. She's such a blessing to me and has been source for extreme joy, happiness and immeasurable learning in my world for her entire life. So you can imagine why today, her first day of 12th grade, I woke up extremely emotional and excited.

I remember thinking I had it all figured out at the start of my 12th grade year. I felt like I could conquer the world and nothing could stop me. And a true law of nature, the fruit doesn't fall far from the tree. At times I wish I could tell her, or show her, or bottle up for her the distance between what I had all figured out, and the truths I learned along the way. But mostly, I hesitate to shade with any dark colors her learning and experiencing her exact life that will lead her to her own personal growth and truths. As a father, there's such a balancing act I play with this.

What I often remind her of is that these are unique days that she should not take for granted. These are days where I can say to my daughter and mean it more than ever that "you can absolutely become whatever you want in your life. The sky is the limit. Endless are the possibilities." Not just in my family, but in our world, the examples of greatness achieved particularly by Black women sets the stage of what's to come for my daughter. Her future is so bright. I'm so thankful and appreciative for all that's too blinding to see today.

Thank you Vogue for choosing me to be your father in this life. I'm still so very much in love with you. You're a fine young lady that I am very proud of. And there's not a more rich and rewarding blessing in this life than being your Daddy.