Father’s Day is coming in hot — and if you’re lucky enough to have a great dad in your life, here’s a revolutionary idea: tell him how much he means to you. Yes, with actual words. Out loud. Possibly while both of you pretend you’re not getting emotional.
Because here’s the thing: Dads might act all tough with their cargo shorts and their deep emotional bond with the lawn, but deep down? They’re total softies. So this year, skip the tie he’ll never wear and the world’s most uninspired “Best Dad” mug. Give him the gift of feelings (yes, Dads have those too — even if they hide them behind a wall of sports commentary and dad jokes).
Here are 5 heartfelt things to say to your dad that will absolutely make his day — and maybe even make him tear up (in a manly, stoic, “I just got dust in my eye” kind of way):
1. “You were always there for me.”
This one hits harder than a back-in-my-day story. Being present is a big deal, and if your dad showed up for you — whether it was at soccer games, science fairs, or the great middle school meltdown of 2009 — let him know it mattered. Extra points if you say it while he’s holding a spatula.
2. “You always supported my dreams.”
Even if your childhood dream was becoming a professional dinosaur or opening a bakery for cats, and your dad didn’t laugh (too hard), that’s love. Remind him that his belief in you was fuel for your journey — and that he didn’t suffer through your garage band phase in vain.
3. “You always kept your word.”
In a world of flaky friends, rescheduled meetings, and ghosted group chats, being dependable is rare. If your dad said he’d be there and he was — that’s superhero-level stuff. Acknowledge it. Bonus points if you bring up something specific, like, “Remember when you said we’d build that treehouse? We did. And I still have the splinters to prove it.”
4. “You made my childhood fun.”
Whether it was cheesy jokes, epic pancake Sundays, or letting you eat ice cream before dinner just that one time, your dad was probably a big part of the joy in your early years. Let him know you remember those moments — even if he still insists you beat him at Monopoly only once.
5. “You gave me everything.”
Not just financially (although shoutout to Dads who practically turned into ATMs during back-to-school season), but emotionally too. Time, love, advice, and maybe a few deeply questionable fashion opinions — your dad gave you what he had. That’s worth more than any toolset.
So go ahead — make your dad’s day. Tell him what he means to you. Then, by all means, fire up the grill and hand him a burger like the emotional moment never happened. Because that’s how we roll.
Happy Father’s Day, you legends.
(Source: Your Tango
