Wings of Pride

    By Storybird

    Wings of Pride cover image

    24 Aug, 2023

    Ever since I was a kid, I have always admired you. You were my hero, my protector, and my role model. Your strength and resilience were inspiring, and I always dreamed of being just like you.

    You were always so dedicated to your work in the Air Force. You worked long hours, sometimes staying away from home for days, weeks, and even months. But you never complained.

    I know it was hard for you. Being away from your family was tough, but you knew the importance of your job. You were fighting for our country, fighting for freedom, and for that, I’m incredibly proud.

    I remember how you would come home, tired and drained, but you always made time for me. We would spend hours talking about your adventures, your missions, and I would listen, wide-eyed and fascinated with every word.

    Your stories brought my dreams to life. You were fighting the bad guys, flying in fighter jets, a real-life superhero to me. But amidst the thrill and excitement, you never failed to remind me of the responsibilities of your job.

    You taught me that serving in the Air Force wasn't just about the glory and heroism but also about sacrifice, dedication, and responsibility. It was about serving a greater good, all while carrying the weight of your country on your shoulders.

    I also remember the darker days, when you would come home with a heaviness in your eyes, not sharing much about your experiences. I didn't fully understand then, but I realized you were sheltering me from the harsh realities of war.

    You tried your best to keep your work separate from your family life, but I know it was not always easy. The burdens you carried, the stresses you bore, were sometimes visible in your expressions and your silence.

    I know I could be difficult at times, demanding your attention when you were exhausted and needed rest. I know I added to your stress, and for that, I’m sorry. But you never showed any frustration.

    Despite your work, you made sure that I never felt neglected. You were always there for my school events, my football games, and all those times when I needed advice. You were a constant in my life, an unwavering pillar of support.

    I remember the times when you had to discipline me. I didn’t understand then, but I do now. You were trying to mould me, to make me a better person, and to prepare me for life's challenges.

    I remember how gentle you were with mom. Despite the stresses at work, you always found the strength to be her shoulder to lean on. You showed me how a respectful and kind, loving relationship should look.

    I have seen you at your happiest and at your worst. I have watched your strength, your dedication, your unwavering commitment to your job and to us. But most importantly, I have witnessed your love, and that is what makes you the best dad in the world.

    You have shown me the world and taught me invaluable lessons. Your hard work has opened doors for me and mom, provided us with a comfortable life, and given us countless memories to cherish.

    You’ve taught me the value of a good education, of perseverance, of staying grounded even when you are on top of the world. These lessons have shaped me into the man I am today, and for that, I am forever grateful.

    I have seen you struggle, and I've seen you overcome. You have beaten the odds time and again, showing me the strength of human spirit. You are my inspiration, my source of motivation.

    No matter how gruelling your job was, you never let it affect your role as a father. You have been an exceptional mentor, a patient listener, and a constant source of encouragement for me.

    I want you to know that I appreciate your sacrifices, your dedication to your job, and your unwavering love for us. You have done more than what can be expressed in words, and for that, thank you.

    I want to make you proud. I want to carry forward your legacy of hard work, dedication, and love for one's country. You are the reason I dream big, Dad, and I hope to be half the man you are.

    I know you sometimes doubt yourself — if you are a good father, if you have done enough for us. But I want you to know that you are the best dad anyone could ever ask for, and we are incredibly proud of you.

    I know there are times when life can be hard, when the weight of the world can be too much to handle. Just remember, Dad, we are always here for you, just like you have always been there for us.

    You are truly a man of honour and courage. Your dedication to your work and to our family is nothing short of awe-inspiring. You are not just a hero in the eyes of the nation, but in my eyes as well.

    Your journey in the Air Force, your dedication to your duty, your love for your family, and your passion for life have all wowed me. You have truly earned your wings of pride, Dad.

    In the end, I just want to say that I am extremely proud of you, Dad. I admire you, I look up to you, and I strive to be more like you every day. Thank you for being the best dad, and for being my hero.

    Remember, no matter where you go, no matter what you do, we are always with you. Your journey is our journey, your dream is our dream, and your pride is our pride. We are forever in awe of you, Dad.