Photo Journal: Fathers Day - Never Too Late

I had a feeling this day would come. The day where I could finally share a moment with my father before it was too late. It only took about 27 years, but I am glad that we made something of this beautiful moment. For context, I moved to New York in November of 2019 in search of better work opportunities. I sort of picked up and left, especially considering the unstable relationship with my father and mother. Their disputes and discomfort constantly distracted me from my goals, and I was beginning to feel like a burden. My dad and I never had much of a relationship, but the older I got, the more I realized how necessary it was to build something. Anything is better than nothing.

After living in New York for roughly 5 months, I decided to return home for a brief period as COVID-19 was torturing our world. As I got back to Toronto, I had to decide between staying with my father (who had recently moved to his own place), or my sister. I chose the former, as I knew this would be an opportunity to break the ice with my dad. It took a while, but I knew once Father’s Day was approaching, I wanted to do something small but special. If you know anything about African fathers, you know that many of them show little to no emotion. They maintain a mask of “masculinity” that bans them from seeming weak or vulnerable. It was tough to warm up to the idea of a photoshoot, but I knew this would be a step in the right direction. In one way or another, photography is a form of communication and I was relieved with how smooth the session went.

We spoke briefly as I took photos of him, and I was impressed with how well he took direction. Quite the debut! No, but on a serious note, this was a special moment. Even if our relationship does not turn out to be the best father-son situation, I will always remember this beautiful moment. Look at him!

Love you Dad! I know you may not feel these words, but I am committed to giving you your flowers while you are still here.

To the women and men struggling to establish something with their fathers and mothers, please give it another try. I know some of these relationships feel too damaged to repair, but the potential exists. Take care of yours!