Lord willing, I will never forget June 24, 2012. Charity wakes me up declaring it time to head to the hospital and welcome our first child into our family. A whirlwind of emotions swirls up. Slightly disoriented from waking up before the sun had risen sure, but it felt like a dream. I remember clearly thinking “Is this really happening?”, “Am I about to become a father?”, “Am I ready for this?”. It was really happening, I was about to become a father, and no, I most certainly was not ready. Yet, on June 24th, 2012, Charity and I welcomed Camille Raegan into our family and our world has never been the same.

What is it about a father and his daughter(s)? There is an indescribable yet, palpable dynamic between the two. Perhaps a daughter softens the pride that often fortifies us men. Maybe there is a natural sense of protector that rises up in men that quickly binds us to our little girl. It could be that when we look at our little girl we see innocence, promise, strength, and cute pigtails and that motivates us to be the best version of ourselves because she deserves it. I don’t know the answer exactly but I know that on June 23rd, I had no understanding of being a father much less the beauty and power of a father/daughter relationship.

Watching Camille for the last 10 years has been the gift of a lifetime.

She loves Jesus. I recently bought her a study bible and she has told me on multiple occasions how thankful she is for it so she can learn more.

She is considerate of others.

She thinks through things and isn’t afraid to ask hard questions.

She has a smile that will literally light up a room. She has been most gracious to a father who is learning on the go.

She loves root beer like her dad.

She is a fan of the Rays, Mavs, and Jags (I tried to deter her) because her dad is.

If it matters to me, it matters to her. I don’t understand why but it is true. She thinks like me in ways that are scary at times. We can look at each other and know what the other is thinking. I am supposed to be the adult but there are times where the roles seem to change. She is the most amazing young lady. I can not comprehend how 10 years have gone by already. Happy Birthday my sweet Camille. You are more than I could have ever hoped for. I pray I lead and love you the way you deserve!