Blog / The Hidden Vulnerabilities of Strong Fathers

The Hidden Vulnerabilities of Strong Fathers

04.12.2024 | Namrata Mishra

Dear fathers, you don't always have to be strong. Strength goes beyond shouldering the world's weight alone. It's been a while since I lived under the same roof as my father, and over the years, I've come to understand the true essence of strength in a way I couldn't comprehend before. 
As a child, I saw my father as my go-to person, capable of conquering any challenge that came our way. He worked tirelessly to provide for our family, sometimes showing signs of exhaustion and irritation. And how could he not? His broad shoulders carried the burdens of life and our hopes, dreams, and fears. 
Now that I'm older, I understand why he sometimes felt irritable and exhausted. I can now look at his weariness with kindness and empathy. I've learned that true strength lies in the ability to withstand pressure and the willingness to let others in. These "others" can be our not-so-happy emotions and other forms of support. I'm grateful to him for leaning on my mother when life became too heavy and ensuring I lived lightheartedly. 
As I navigate life without him by my side and face my own struggles, I've discovered the immense power of vulnerability and the beauty of shared burdens. While I miss him dearly, I also see his reflection in myself—the slumped shoulders and weary eyes. I no longer strive for a tough exterior. My own physical appearance, like my belly fat, reminds me that it's healthy to let go of the weights we sometimes carry for too long without realizing it. "It's healthy to let your weight down," as my father would say. 
Father, thank you for being vulnerable with me; I see your pain. When I come home exhausted, just as you used to, I now reach out to others for support, much like you would sit with Mom. I remember how you never wanted to be a superhero for me. Thank you for that important reminder. On my hardest days, when I don't feel strong enough, I hear you saying, "It's okay, Namrata. You don't always have to be strong." 
 
Thank you for setting an example of how transformative love and kindness can be. You have always been a proud father, irrespective of my grades, choices, and decisions. I appreciate how you never hesitate to show appreciation for me, even in public. 
I am the person I am today because of the bond we have created together. However, now that you are getting older, which I know you often disagree with, I want you to remember a few things: 

Take a few moments just to breathe. 


Continue being vulnerable. 


Lean on us. 


Remember what you taught me: "You don't always have to be strong." 

Until I see you next, I will affirm that we are in this together and not alone.  
--- 
This post represents the author’s personal views and experiences. iDare doesn’t endorse or take responsibility for the opinions expressed. 
 
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 Image Credits: Pexels

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