Dear Dad’s, Thank you
Today we celebrate fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers and father-figures. Their words of wisdom, unconditional love and support have influenced how we grow as educators and leaders within our community and show support to the next generation of future leaders and innovators. We recognize that all families are different and show their support in different ways. We celebrate each child and their circumstance and will continue to remind them they are loved, heard, and one of a kind.
In honour of Father’s Day, we’ve compiled lessons our educators have learned from their fathers or through fatherhood. Read on to hear what our team had to say about their fathers and as a father.
Lessons Faraz our Bridgeland Educator has Learned from His Father and Being a Father
“My father has taught me the value of struggle. As a first-generation, my dad worked hard and sacrificed his dreams to bring us to the country of opportunities. He has also shown me the value of hard work. My dad believes that if you work hard, give your best and put in your time. You will be rewarded.
What I love most about my dad is he was always very encouraging and supported my sister and me with our decisions. As a father, I love spending time with my son and exploring with him. He definitely looks up to me, and I am sure I am his hero because he wants to do everything dad does. My dad had taught us to always be kind to one another, respect everyone’s opinions and wisdom and be responsible. I want my son to grow up with these teachings and continue exploring the world and what it has to offer.”
- Faraz
Lessons from Katherine our Executive Director has Learned From her Father
“My dad was born in Norway and had a passion for the outdoors. He instilled in me a love for nature and the outdoors. I have fond memories from my childhood of canoeing down the Yukon River, backpacking across Norway, skiing together and going on family camping trips every summer.
He was also a high school teacher and taught me the power of our words. He shared how important it is to always be mindful of the language we use, how much power our words can have on others, and how important it is to speak kindly.
My dad lived life to the fullest and had no regrets. He went on 25 expeditions over his lifetime every summer with a buddy for two weeks - from hiking across the Pyrenees, sea kayaking in Greenland and more. He passed away when I was 14 years old, but we all knew he had been on so many adventures and truly lived his life. While I miss him so much and can't believe I have lived my life longer without him, I hope to teach my daughter about her Grandpa Terry and the wonderful man he was!”
- Katherine
Lessons that Emma our Bridgeland Educator has Learned from her Father
“The lessons I have learned from my dad are quirky but sentimental. They have grown with me and helped shape me into who I am today. My dad has taught me to knock the snow off my boots before getting into the car, one 4L tub of ice cream is much more affordable than DQ, AND you get more, and finally to ‘eating my veggies and meat at the same time’ this way the veggies won't taste as bad. I love my dad and his confidence, kindness and patience. I will pass on the lessons of how important it is to save while you are young and only have a ‘few living expenses’”.
- Emma
Lessons Lexie our Fairview Educator has Learned from her Father
“The lesson I’ve learned most from my dad is to never give up. You need to get back up no matter what, especially if it didn’t go as planned. It is important to persevere and follow your dreams and goals.
The thing I love most about my dad is that he is so strong (physically and mentally), and he’ll always be by my side as my protector and friend. Nothing will break the bond we share.
I would like to teach the children around the centre something my dad has instilled in me: to always follow your dreams and to have perseverance. If they have a certain goal or dream they want to do later on in life, go for it, and if they make mistakes along the way, I will help them push forward. Mistakes are a part of the journey and I will support in educating their learning and encouraging them as he has done for me.”
- Lexie
A HUGE thank you to all of our educators who participated and shared their stories. Finally, to the fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers and father-figures, we love you and appreciate all you do, your kindness, patience, and generosity are lessons we will remember and pass on. Thank you for taking the time to show us how to be fearless, live life to the fullest, and follow our dreams.