An Open Letter to My Ex-Husband on Father’s Day

When you dropped off the kids the other day and got out of the car to see the ducks, you and Jack were standing just alike, watching them, hands behind your back and head pointed down. There has never been a moment, even during the hard times when we decided to separate, that I regret making a family with you.

It wasn’t long after I met you that I knew I wanted you to be the father of my children — of our children

Nothing has ever changed my mind about that. In fact, if I were to live my life over, I wouldn’t do a thing differently.

You are the most patient person I’ve ever met. You never speak out of anger. You’ve shown our kids so much from how to camp like a pro, how to play gold, and you’ve always been so much better at helping them with their homework than I ever have.

When they were little, I remember you’d come home from work and I could see how tired you were, yet you never skipped an evening of playing with them on the floor, helping me get them ready for bed, or reading them a story.

Then, you’d be up before me and headed out the door for work, ready to do it all again.

You are understanding in a way I wish I could be

I’m not able to let things go and move forward like you can. I’m so thankful one of us has been able to show a solid example of compassion and empathy for our kids, because I realize I am stubborn and struggle with this.

As a father to three teenagers who runs his own business, takes care of a home, and has a great relationship with his girlfriend and her daughter, you never miss a beat when it comes to your kids. You have always prioritized them, even when it interfered with other plans.

We may not be married any longer, but I can still depend on you. I know if I am struggling with something that involves our kids, you will do what’s needed. I know if I have a question about the house, you will answer and help in any way that you can. I know if I need advice about something, you will give it to me.

Not everyone has this kind of relationship with their ex-husband.

I realize how lucky we are to be able to continue to parent our children in a healthy way, together

I know you always have my back and we are a united force, even though we aren’t living in the same house. I know you don’t badmouth me in front of our kids, and I am confident you always have the best interest of our family in mind.

Yes, we might not be in love and partnered any longer, but it’s like you told me the night you moved out:

We will always be a family, it will just be different

I need you to know how much I appreciate you putting our children first. You are the GOAT of fathers and our children are happy, confident, and thriving because of it. We’ve tackled some heavy stuff together these past few years and while things aren’t perfect, they are pretty damn good.

Your dedication to your children shows in every way and you need to know your efforts don’t go unnoticed.

I am so happy we decided to have kids together. It will always be my greatest accomplishment, and I’m so lucky I have you to share them with.