Fatherhood Is My Joy

As Father's Day approaches, I find myself reflecting on the blessing of fatherhood. I know this day brings different emotions for different people—for some, joy and gratitude; for others, pain or complicated memories. Still, I believe it's good to pause and find something to be thankful for when we can.

For me, that means thinking of my own father, Mike Reyes, who passed away a few years ago. I miss him deeply. Losing a father changes how a day like this feels. There's gratitude, but also an ache. Smiling memories sit right alongside the longing for just one more conversation. I'm grateful for the impact he had on my life, and I carry it with me still.

Fatherhood itself has been one of my greatest joys. Ashley, Angel, Sabrina, Aleah, and Ania have taught me as much as I've taught them. Every season of raising them has stretched and humbled me, reminding me how much I need God's wisdom and grace. And the joy keeps growing—in just a few months, Angel and his wife Shuleika will welcome our third grandchild, another reminder that family is a gift from God.

Father's Day also points us to our perfect Heavenly Father. Earthly dads do their best, and some are no longer with us, but God remains faithful and good. As Psalm 103:13 reminds us, He shows compassion the way a father shows compassion to his children.

Happy Father's Day.
Domingo