Growing up, I always remembered not fearing death. It’s not that I didn’t want to live; I just never worried or even thought about not being here any longer. After becoming a father, these thoughts changed drastically. I now have a fear of dying, but not so much for myself. If I’m here one day and gone the next, it won’t really affect me, and I don’t care in that regard. However, I do fear what my children and family will go through once I’m not around. Will my child be a part of a world that loves, supports, and understands him? Will he be able to take care of himself and deal with what life throws at him? Will I have done enough to set him up for success, financially and otherwise?

These are the thoughts that run through my mind on a regular basis, and yes, they do scare me. The best thing I can do is take care of myself so I can be around for my son as long as possible. I vow to do my best to raise him to be a good, kind, and strong person. When the day comes, when I am no longer around, my wish is that my kiddo will be able to walk this earth, create success, and live a happy life without me. I pray that day is still very far away.

This is a father’s fear. This is my fear. How do I get over it? I simply have to find enjoyment in the present moment and try not to overthink things, which is much easier said than done. I hope this post wasn’t too dark. Your thought processes will change once you become a parent, but I urge you to live in the present as much as possible and know that I understand your fears too. Please reach out to me if you want a listening ear.