Most of my life, I have traveled the world, having fun and acting silly — until I became a father.

I remember that day like it was yesterday. The doctor handed you to me, and I was scared to death.

When our eyes met, I saw in you the miracle that God promised.

I held you close. But maybe you held me, I don’t know. I do know that I whispered, “From this moment on, I will give you all that I have.” Because I then realized that my life began with you.

You have gotten older, and things have changed. Some people describe me as opinionated and a little rough around the edges. However, when I meet people, I don’t say my name is Mr. Backstrom. I introduce myself as your dad.

I haven’t told you, but every time I see you, I melt. The feelings of pure joy wash over me like a wave, and the rough exterior just melts away. I remember taking you shopping and silently steeling myself for what was to come.

I tell you in my firmest dad voice, “I am only buying you one thing.”

You look at me with those gorgeous brown eyes and say “Dad, please?”

That’s it. Game over. I give you my wallet and demand the change back.

One day you said, “Dad I’m pretty lucky. I have a mom and dad who love me.”

I quickly say, “But dad is cooler.” You correct me: “Dad, stop.” I sheepishly comply.

You said, “Dad, can I ask you a favor?”

I said, “Yes, what is it?” — hoping it wasn’t any more money.

“Some of the girls at my school don’t have a father. Will you be their dad for a while?”

I quickly looked the other way so she wouldn’t see the tears. I said, “I’d love to.”

“What will you tell them?” she asked.

It would go something like this:

I first want to apologize. I am very sorry that your dad is not here.

You are one of the prettiest girls I have ever seen. I am so proud of you because your inside matches your outside.

I want you to know that you are made in the image and likeness of God. If you are willing to work hard and sacrifice, you can achieve your dreams. Sometimes it is not easy being a young black girl. However, if you just believe in yourself, things will work out. They always do.

I want you to know that gratitude is an attitude. Here’s an assignment for you: Write on a piece of paper all the things you are grateful for, then look at them every day. You will see grace in action. Do not forget to put yourself at the top of the list, even if you don’t believe it.

The rap videos you see on TV are not you. What I see in you is an example of someone who touches my heart. I want you to know that there could be no rainbow without a storm. There could be no light without the darkness. I want to warn you that when boys tell you to prove that you love them, say “OK.” Then write those words on a piece of paper, give it to them and say “There it is.”

I am telling you not to have sex — not because you don’t love him, but because you love yourself more.

There is one other thing I want to tell you. You’re here because God wants you to do something that only you can do. Remember, I believe in you.

I turned at looked at my daughter. She said “Dad, you are the best dad ever.”

We held each other and wept. No excuses.