The Moment I Realized What Being a Dad Means

I remember this day like it was yesterday and processing what happened after waking up and watching the video. I faintly remember what happened but vividly remember my heart sinking when I heard, “I need you.”

When Maddie said, “I need you,” I felt the weight of her words. I believe it was my inner child waking me up to run to her like I wanted my parents to come for me when I needed them.

After watching the video, different questions came to my mind: “What could I have done better? Did I scar her? Will she not trust me anymore?” And I went to some “conclusions” that day, and this is what I’ve learned all these years later and having two more girls.

I won’t always be right beside my girls when they need me. But I will do everything possible to get to them as fast as possible. That’s a vow that I made to myself and them.

When I came to the room, and she instantly stopped crying and fell asleep on my chest, I fully understood the magnitude of my role as a father to my daughters.

So, although I won’t always be there right away, I’ll always be there as fast as I can, and that will never go away for now and forever.

[donnadeerman]

You didn't let her down. Great job daddy .

[Deliciousdiva]

“ I need you” pulled at my heartstrings 😢

[robinlynn]

Every little girl should KNOW what that feels like!!!😭😭😭😭😭 Way to go Daddy!!!♥️

[lisamalwitz]

Tears...because the gentle touch and soothing voice of one's own 'daddy' in the life of a tiny afraid child...is priceless. (from a 60+ yr old lady who never knew this comfort.. It affects your life forever.)

[TheresaCastellanos-hh]

Ladies and gentlemen…. That’s a real daddy….

[miraclebaba]

She stopped crying the second he held her❤

[Ailichan]

"I need you" is a really strong sentence... She'll learn to sleep alone eventually, it's ok not to rush it, I think you're a good dad

[CVC]

That is the most loving thing for a dad as his daughter. Security and love!!!

[brittanynicole]

Someone protect that man at all costs. There s not very many FATHERS out there this is complete genuine ❤ good job dad

[EyeKnow]

You're a great Dad. There are so many little girls who have never experienced a Dad who shows up for them, including my own child. It's truly sad. Keep doing what you're doing.

[heatherthomas]

She knows that's why she's calling you that way. You're her hero, and it shows.

[_SunscreenQueen_]

I love seeing the new generation of parents trying to right the wrongs of their parents. Healing your inner child while ensuring hers will never be broken

[kathyduncan]

I was 55 and my mother had a bad reaction to some meds they gave her. They gave to high of a dosage. I stayed with her the whole time. She slept for five days straight. On the 5th night I was tired and emotionally drained and as I laid in the cot next to her bed, I began crying out to her saying moma, as I was sobbing in my pillow.. She heard my cries and it pulled her out of the deep sleep she was in!! I was over joyed and in awe and very Thankful that she heard me crying! Never underestimate the depth of a parents Love!! ❤

[panseygirl]

When she cried, “I need you, ” the tears started falling. So happy daddy was there for her.

[mariposatutorials]

My 5 month old baby boy was teething bad the other night, and I tried rocking him gave him medicine and tried to give him a baba. He didn’t calm down until I picked him up and cradled him. I wrapped him warmly in a blanket and put his cheek on my cheek. And some kind of peace and Joy came over me as I was rocking him, I felt so much love, and he instantly stopping crying and even looked up at me from time to time to make sure I was still there by him. It was sweet… our little humans need us the most. And they find protection in us. I have a 2 year old that calls out too me whenever he needs me and will say mama mama mama three times, and will come to me, it’s so precious. I love being home with my children, watching them grow, being here for every emotion and for every need. I pray when they get older they don’t forget that mommy will always be here for them. ♥️

[recklessamantha]

Aww the fact she can communicate her needs shows they are great parents.

[helenrumsey]

A friend always told me to always hold them any chance they give you. Simply because one day they’ll be too big to hold and want their independence.

[SF-vbzz]

The little Babies can't speek, they only can cry, stay by them, don't let them

[elib]

You make her feel safe. Ultimate compliment.

[deniserodriguezzi]

She didn't want to be alone. She feels safe with her Dada by her side ❤️