Today I write not only for my father, but for all the people who will receive their congratulations on this Sunday. For those who inspire, support and represent that figure and parenting, for someone else.

«Dad» does not have to be a person of a specific gender. The reality is that a “mom”, whether by decision or situation, is also (and often) a dad. In other contexts, an uncle becomes that father figure, in other situations the grandmother, even brothers or sisters.

Father’s Day is really for those who are there to teach us, to raise us, to support us, to motivate us and to accompany us in this unknown and surprising life.

Happy day to her, or him… Happy day, to whom we recognize as «dad».

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Happy day to those who become cooks, magicians, teachers, inventors and even the impossible, trying to make us smile.

A special recognition for those who with a hug bring calm. To whom we believe «everything will be fine».

Thanks to those who guide us to learn to trace our own path and understand that in good times and bad, we can look back and trust they’ll be there to support us.

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Today is the day to recognize that Dad can also make mistakes.

There will be times when instead of helping us, we will have to be there for them.

Dad is not immortal, even if they seem invincible.

Dad won a little piece of your heart.

Surely when someone said to you that you behave or look like your father, you feel pride and affection when listening to that.

Dad becomes the first phone number to call when you need help or advice.

Dad as much as mom, is your special person.

Regardless, who you recognize as your father,  accompany them today, thank them, dedicate this day to them. Do the reminder of why you call or recognize them as such.

In my case, this brief writing is for my dad: the oceanologist, the lawyer, the mentor, the best grill master, the best cook, (don’t tell Mom I said that last thing about the cooking).

Happy day to my guide.

Happy day to the one who have taught me how to defend myself, what love and trust look like with a partner, with a family, with a friend and with oneself.

I’m so lucky to have you in my life, dad. I hope that many more years will come in which I can continue learning from you. Because as you say: «The most important thing is always to have fun … and keep learning.»

Thank you for supporting me in my dance, theater, yoga, my writings, my ideas and craziness. Thank you for showing me that we always have to smile. Thank you for staying with me talking until midnight. For understanding me or trying. For teaching me to question, search and solve. Thanks for believing in me.

The list is long, Dad.

I have learned so much from you, I appreciate you, I love you infinitely and I admire you more and more. Thanks for being my dad. For trying to be the best example for your family. For being a great human being, noble, persevering, strong, with a great sense of humor and always ready to take on any challenge and overcome it.

Happy father’s day to the best dad in my world!