Simple Acts To Help Dad’s Make Their Daughters Feel Special

“In a world that is increasingly technological, we use our electronic devices for everything, from work-related matters to personal communication. Think about it, dads. When was the last time we expressed our sentiments in a truly thoughtful way to our daughters, rather than exclaiming a quick “Love you!” to them before we rush out the door?

A splendid way to express our appreciation and love for our daughters is to put away all distractions and sit down to write them heartfelt letters. It’s crazy to think that something that was once so common is now a rarity in our world today!

I recently came across a TIME news article in which they teamed up with Lean In, Sheryl Sandberg’s women’s empowerment foundation, on Father’s Day to unite dads and daughters by asking famous dads to write letters to their daughters.

One that specifically stood out to me was a letter by Mario Lopez written to his daughter, Gina. (That’s them below. I know—adorable!)

In it, he writes a story about watching Gina at her dance recital at just 2 years old. He shares how the other children on stage are either afraid or unaware of what they should be doing, but Gina is front and center, “hamming it up.”

“That made me melt” he includes.

Gina will probably never remember this recital, but since she now has it written down, she can read it as she grows older and cherishes this memory for the rest of her life. Also, she will surely feel special to know that such a small event stood out so prominently in her father’s mind. Why?

It’s the little things that matter.

Or maybe you rather take the humorous route? Well, then listen to this story that Aaron Sorkin writes in a letter to his daughter, Roxy, for some inspiration.

“The nurse taught me how to swaddle you. My first try didn’t go so well. I crossed, folded, tucked, and lifted you up, only to find that I was holding an empty blanket in my hands and a naked baby was lying on the bed. You had a look on your face that said, “Oh my God, my father’s a moron.”

I share all of these stories with you to show various examples of how dads have taken the time out of their busy schedules to write their daughters a letter to make them feel special. Could you imagine receiving a letter from your father? Tell me it wouldn’t be the most precious thing!

I know what you may be thinking—My daughter is too old for that type of “mushy gushy” stuff. But I think I can speak for all daughters when saying that receiving a handwritten letter from your father is something irreplaceable. How do I know this?

Because we are HUMAN!

Whether 2 or 72, we always want to feel special.

Just look at the letter written by Dallas Cowboys manager, Jerry Jones to his daughter Charlotte. She is a full-grown adult. It doesn’t make it any less sentimental.

Think you may need a few pointers to get your letter started? Here are some ideas to get you thinking about what you want to include in your letter:

· Do you have a memory of her as a child that stands out?

· Include any specific things you know about her that others may not or may have forgotten. (The more detailed the better! She’ll feel special to know you remembered.)

· Include any jokes you two have together or something funny that happened between you.

· Name things you love about her. (Include positive adjectives to describe her and words of affirmation.)

· Describe some obstacles you have seen her work through and how strong she is for doing so.

· Does anything remind you of her?

· Make sure to include how much you love her!!

· List a few reasons why you are proud of her.

· Why not include a fun “P.S.” to end the letter?

Now that you’ve read through this list of ideas to get started, there’s no excuse! So, grab your pen and paper, and let’s get writing.

P.S. Here is the link for the TIME letters if you want to get a more in-depth read.

I suggest doing so. They are a fantastic inspiration. ”

Edited by TLC Interns: Katrina Lashinger and Christopher Williams