For Father's Day

My dad is not sentimental and mushy. I didn’t get my love of running from him, as cool as that would have been. He doesn’t have that “overprotective man gene” I find so awful and old-fashioned (thank goodness). In short, all the things young women usually post about their dads don’t really apply to mine. He’s not a sitcom, cookie-cutter dad.

Our first photo together.

And boy, am I glad he's not. 

My dad...

…is the one I call when I need advice I know I can trust, be it about my career, finances, or anything law-related.

Letting my sister walk all over him.

…is the epitome of self-made; yet he still has compassion for those who are struggling.

…is my favorite person to discuss politics with. Not just because we tend to agree on things, but because he always offers new insights and actually still reads the newspaper so he's not just spouting nonsense.

My 6th grade graduation.

…is the reason I cared about getting good grades in school, and why I'm determined to be successful in life.

…is hilarious and totally inappropriate. Even though my dad could be pretty gruff and strict when I was growing up, he's honestly one of the funniest people I know.

Everyday, I hope to make him proud. I respect and love him more than I can put into words; he has helped shape me into a strong woman, an independent thinker, and a compassionate human-being. It’s because of him that I sometimes let my anger get the best of me; because of him that I don’t shy from controversy and debates; because of him that I have confidence in myself and my abilities. I know I have worth, because he taught me that my voice matters.

I am so lucky to have a dad I respect, admire, and look up to.

As I said last year: "As I get older, I realize how like him I already am. I'm so lucky to have a dad who has been willing to support me - financially and otherwise - and teach me the importance of budgeting, planning, organizing, dedicating yourself to what matters, making wise choices, and having a realistic view of life.

His interest in politics fed my interest in politics. His dry, sarcastic humor shaped my humor. His honesty helped me get over the fear of being honest with others, even if it might mean that not everyone will like me. My dad doesn't sugarcoat anything, and in a way that makes his approval, support, and love even that much more special. I wouldn't trade him for anyone else in the world."

Happy Father's Day.

ABK