A letter to my dad

Hi Dad,

I know we don't really talk feelings, 

it's just not how you were raised, 

but I've got some feelings to write down,

some things I'd like to say.

Thank you, for raising me how you did,

a little bit of tough love, and teaching me grit.

A little bit of work ethic, and giving me a little shit

when i wasn't reaching my potential.

And although you weren't sentimental I know

that you loved me in your own way,

and although I know it's not the sort of thing you'd say,

I know you're proud of me each and every day.

I used to struggle with this, and I used to hold on to the thought

that I was never good enough, and I had to be tough,

or life would take advantage. I had to be perfect.

Well it's the perfectionism that's made me who I am,

made me into the man I am today. Textbook people pleaser.

Recently I've done some reflecting, and I've seen,

that the way our relationship has been, has made me good.

if not for that people pleasing need, I never would

have gotten to the point where I feed off making people happy.
And I know this all sounds a bit tacky, and way to soppy for you,

but your parenting has made me a man who

is good, and kind, and independant. Able to carry the weight of others

treat other men like brothers, woman like sisters, 

and it's not something I feel I need to whisper.

I'm finally in a place where I can say "I like me".

So thank you for raising me the way that you did,

thank you for showing me the way I could be.