I want to see you be brave

Happy birthday, Dad. I love you.

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When I was little, my dad used to call me “Trudy the Brave”. Honestly, I’m not entirely sure why. I just asked my mum, and she’s not too sure either! I was very shy when I was little, not really that brave. Mum reckons Dad wanted to make me feel proud, in a way, help me to live up to that name. Dad wanted to make sure I felt special.

Really, I believe my dad is the brave one. Dad is the one who leads us on new adventures, who loves to try new things and meet new people. He is not afraid of messing things up a little, and he is not easily embarrassed or ashamed. He faces everything with such natural courage.

So I want to thank you, Dad, because everyday you are inspiring me to be braver. Every day, you encourage me to be brave. I want to be like you; and you’re helping me to.

You encourage me to talk to new people, even though I would rather them to be the first to say hello.

You encourage me to use my talents.

You encourage me to do hard things.

You encourage me to be strong for other people.

You encourage me to persevere in all things.

You encourage me in my faith.

You encourage me to believe I can make a difference.

You encourage me: you give me courage.

My dad has always sought to make my siblings and I feel special and loved. He has always told us he believes in us. That he’s proud of us. He points out our talents, and the best parts of our personality. He reminds us that everything is okay.

Dad, maybe I’m a little more worthy of “Trudy the Brave” now. Why? Because of you. Thank you Dad, for helping me to be brave.