A Father's Day Interview with My Eldest Son

Sandrita: Describe what it feels like to be a father?

A.J.: Being a father is the most beautiful thing on the face of this earth. It’s a constant feeling of being on top of the world and being able to lead by example to pave the way for a child. Showing them right from wrong and helping them grow. It is being there and not have them make some of the mistakes you made, but also let them experience some mistakes to help them grow as a person. It’s the hardest/easiest thing to do. What I mean by that is if you’re a good person then you should have no issues to lead by example. Also, do your best not to show your flaws and expose them to your child or children.

My experience has been tough yet rewarding. I fought hard to be in my daughter’s life and endured bumps in the road but kept my eyes on the prize and that’s my daughter. She makes me feel like I can do no wrong and is the biggest supporter on my team. I love the faith and love she has for me. It is a feeling of joy that can’t be described and if I could answer that any further, I would say you would just have to be a parent to fully understand. I would say to someone who has not experienced parenting, take whatever makes you happy and multiply it by infinity.

Sandrita: What do you do for self-care?

A.J.: I take time and look forward to my alone time whether it is engaging in sports, martial arts, spending time with my little one, or just alone (quiet) time.

I enjoy getting haircuts, pedicures and getting massages. When playing sports, I am competitive in what I participate in, such as basketball, baseball, soccer, and football. My favorites are baseball and softball. People think martial arts is violent, but it’s far from it. It’s a way to help get in tune with yourself but at the same time still getting a great workout and relieving stress.

I enjoy my time with my daughter; talking to her, taking her to get her nails done, going out to breakfast/lunch/dinner, playing video games, going for walks, watching movies, reading books or just anything that lights up her day. I also enjoy cooking her favorite meals, which includes grilled steak with baked mac and cheese. All of this puts a smile on her face. When that happens, I’m totally recharged.

Sandrita: I am so very proud of the son, man and father you are.

A.J.: thank you