When I find out you were coming I was afraid, not wanting to be the father that my father was. Once you were here I had no doubts. June 23rd, 2000 you were born - the greatest work of art I could ever hope to write.
Who would've predicted that your mother and I wouldn't last but I appreciate her for carrying you. Seeing you smile is worth all the headaches and tears I shed going through custody fights over you. I hate that I only see you every other weekend; there's something not right about a willing and loving father not being able to see his child except every two weeks. But, regardless, the times we have are precious. The first time I dropped you off after the custody issues came up I cried so much and I was so hurt and I have always tried to hide the pain I feel from you, though I don't know how good I am at doing that sometimes.
You're growing up so fast. It seemed like only yesterday when I was the first person to hold you once you were born. I continue to be proud of the young lady you've become and the time we spend together is priceless: feeding ducks, watching iCarly, choir performances, watching movies. Who would've known that one day you would tell me that you were proud of me for having my book on Amazon? That alone is worth more than any amount of books I will ever sell in my lifetime.
You are my daughter. My friend. My little queen. My favorite person in the world. My lasting legacy. A true beauty in a sometimes ugly world. My constant. My love.
Daddy loves you.