Father’s Day always brings a mix of emotions for me. Today is the second Father’s Day since my dad passed away, and the weight of that absence is something I still feel. There are moments, especially on days like today, when I wish I could talk to him, ask his advice, or simply share a laugh together. I hold on to the memories we made, but I also feel the loss of the ones we’ll never have.

Still, even with the sadness, I find a lot of light in my life. I get to celebrate with my daughter, and I see myself reflected in her laughter and the small moments we share. Being her dad is a privilege I never take for granted, and it gives me purpose and strength, especially on days that feel heavy.

What makes today special is being surrounded by people who understand—my friends who are also fathers, each of us figuring it out as we go, and my brother, who is carving out his own path as a dad. Knowing that we’re all in this together, honoring our dad’s legacy in our own ways, brings me comfort.

I miss my dad every day, but I know he would be proud of the father I am becoming. I see him in the way I care for my daughter and try to show up for her, even when it isn’t easy. Father’s Day gives me a chance to honor him, appreciate the dads in my life, and make new memories with my family.

If you are celebrating today whether you are a dad, with your dad, or holding on to memories I’m thinking of you. Here’s to all the fathers, past and present, and to the love we continue to carry forward.