Darion W.

Type of Dad: Dad with Multiple, Step-Dad

What's unique about your experience because of the Type of Dad you are?

My wife had two kids when I married her, so I had to learn how to be a husband and a father all at the same time.

Please tell us what it's like to walk a mile in your shoes?

I do feel blessed with my marriage and my family. By no means would I say marriage or fatherhood is easy. They are the two hardest things I have ever had to do. It hard because I do care about the outcome. You have to be conscious of how your kids perceive the world and how the work perceives them. You have to train them on how to navigate society, and the lessons are never-ending.

Who have you become since you became a father?

I have become more selfless. It’s not about me anymore. Everything that I do revolves around my family.

What are some of the unforgettable moments that you hold dear?

Some moments stand out for each child. Being at our oldest daughter’s graduation was awesome because of the challenges and struggles that we had to go through to get to that point. Watching my son grasp the concept of working hard to get what you want. He has big dreams, and I feel proud when I see him working hard to achieve his goals. My youngest daughter fills me up with pride because she is so compassionate towards others. She once felt compelled to share the money that we gave her for a school book fair with a couple of her classmates that didn’t have money for the book fair.

What are some of your challenges/wins as a Dad?

It is challenging as a dad when things don’t go according to plan with your kids. When they get in trouble, or experience failure is an example of that. When you can teach them how to take losses and turn them into lessons, then it all wins.

What/who are your influences/influencers?

My Mom is my most significant influence. I get my work ethic, compassion, and the willingness to do the right thing from my Mom.

What were the three best decisions you've ever made as a Dad?

1: Always make time for my kids.

2: Be their Father first and friend later

3: Live for my family

How are you making an impact now with your family, community, life?

I think that trying to be a positive role model for my family allows me to impact my family, community, and life. It’s not just the victories, but it’s all about the consistent, conscious effort to put your best foot forward.

What's some of the best advice you've received as a man? Best advice you've given?

It’s better to be happy than to be right

How do you want to be remembered? What does legacy mean to you?

I hope to be remembered for my effort to do the right thing over the popular thing. We all know right from wrong, but in today’s society, the right thing is not always popular.

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