A Tribute to my Father:
Growing up, my mom and dad divorced when I was only 9 months old, stemming from a story of adultery. My mom packed up our lives, moved us to a new town, and we started again. The tales I heard about my dad growing up were not filled with affection or admiration; they were harsh stories, moments of pain and disappointment. I was told I looked like him, a comparison made negatively, and it fostered a hatred for my reflection.
As a child, my world revolved around a search for belonging and acceptance, a craving for love that I felt was void in my life. This was my reality until one day, I unexpectedly met my step-brother. That encounter unveiled a new truth about my dad, a truth vastly different from the tales I grew up hearing. I discovered that my dad was an educated man, a respected figure in his community. He served in high positions, pushing boundaries and making an impact in formal education. He inspired many, authored educational books and, even from behind bars, he continued to empower others through education.
It was a bittersweet revelation; sweet because I finally saw my dad in a different light, bitter because he was no longer here to share in this new understanding. I wished I had the chance to sit with him, to talk, and to learn from him directly. But that was not my fate. I had tried to bridge the gap between us once, but old pains and unresolved feelings held me back.
When I heard of his passing, I was alone in South Africa, unable to travel, unable to say goodbye. It was a solitary mourning, one filled with a profound sense of loss and regret for the relationship we could have had.
The strained relationship with my father reflected heavily in my romantic relationships as an adult. Trust was a rare commodity for me. I was always on guard, afraid that they would leave, like my dad did. This need for self-protection sparked a desire for financial independence, a cushion to fall back on should I ever find myself alone again.
This struggle for acceptance and the drive for independence played a significant role in my journey to "success." However, this success is not black and white; it's a complex interweaving of experiences, triumphs, and pains.
Today, I can confidently talk about my past without guilt or pain. I see my past as a collection of experiences that crafted the person I am today. And I like who I am today. I'm grateful for my past, for the rejections and the experiences, as they prepared me for the fulfilling life I now lead.
So on this Father's Day, I want to acknowledge and thank you, my father in heaven, for the imprint you've left on me. As the saying goes, "An apple doesn't fall far from the tree," and indeed I am a reflection of you. I believe if you were here today, you'd be proud to call me your child. Wherever you are, I hope you're looking down with pride. Continue to rest in peace, knowing that your legacy lives on in me, your daughter. Your story is a part of mine, and I carry it with pride.
Happy Father's Day, Dad.
Silly but I joined the whole thing of bitcoin in 2015. I drove adoption in Africa but then I bought into the narrative of bitcoin is GOLD not money anymore and shifted into others…while still remained in BTC. Today I was shocked when someone Zapped me with 5 Sat. I had long stopped believing that btc was no more for small transaction…even when I did my masters on blockchain tech that was part of it…rethinking my positioning. So many of are “ lost” and shifted from btc and believes it’s no more good for smaller transactions…
Hey Jack, I am learning about them. First time I hear from you on Twitter. Just one day here…once I learn will invite my network here to join…
❤️ Hot here in Dubai too…just about to get out with kids, they want ice-cream
I am on YouTube learning about all of this. Never heard of before. Until Jack on Twitter tagged apple. Someone decided to be nice to me and “zaped” not sure if this is what it’s called here with 5 Sato! Thank you. It’s like money raining here? 😀 ok back to learning what this is all about
Thanks. I should read more on how it works. For now can I take a short cut, when you say receive by doing what…?
First time here and trying to learn about it…