THE OBSERVATION BOOTH
OP / ED & PHOTO CREDITS ANDREA DIALECT
Happy Father’s Day Gentlemen…
Ironically, I realized that most of my inspiration this month has been saturated with testosterone. This wasn’t deliberate, surprisingly. There are truly so many amazing men around here. I love watching them from the shadows. They are some of my most beloved muse.
In honor of their day, BIG PAPPA’S that is. I had decided that I wanted to dedicate this section to a feature. I wanted to spotlight someone really amazing, and it was a tough thing to do because our HOODS are chock-full of them.
Monday, I had begun the difficult undertaking of narrowing my list down, and the two men on top who were being considered were pretty much forcing a tie. I happened to be sitting on a bench at the park at the time, mulling the final cut over in the ol’ dome.
Then the most amazing thing happened. My face was transfixed to the right as I was snapping shots and chitchatting with passersby. Then, with a slight turn of my head, from my peripheral, it hit me. That majestic vibe had come through. It was my boy, and the moment I spotted him, I knew that he had come by at the perfect moment. And when he did, he immediately snatched the prize.
Oftentimes, I have watched him, myself, and others, as we had at that moment, swish by while making those rounds around the track and the park with baby in tow. It was such a magical moment and such a sight to see – one of my favorite reps.
It is so peculiar how so many of my decisions, when it comes to this work, are usually not that of my own. I looked up and smiled toward the sky at the biggest Papa I knew (Daddy God). Everywhere those kicks hitting pavement go, they intriguingly demand your attention.
So, this month’s spotlight is gladly taken out of the shadows, and his dedication, drive and his presence has expanded its reach.
Whomever you are thank you for reppin’ us, Mister. Blessings to you and yours forever. Thanks for making us look at a narrative that goes beyond those often-distorted showings of us and you.
Thank you for doing us proud… Run on!
Visit Localtalkweekly.com to read drafts in its entirety and check out the archives getting even more amazing content from the Entertainment section. While you’re at it, check out my Fine Artistry photography archives in support of my subjects that, while supporting change, become my muse and clay as supporting my experimental projects as I mold them into Fine Artistry.
Also join me and the collective for my Facebook live as I develop daily “PORTAL” sessions. Follow my msdialect Instagram, and let’s grow out loud together! Like, follow, and share.
DID YOU KNOW…
A father is more than a man who helps create a child.
A father is someone who shows up, protects, teaches, corrects, comforts, provides, listens, and leads by example. He helps a child understand who they are, where they come from, and how to move through the world.
Fatherhood can be biological, chosen, adopted, inherited, or earned. Some fathers raise children who are not their own. Some grandfathers, uncles, brothers, mentors, coaches, and community men step into the gap and become father figures through their actions.
A father is not defined by perfection. He is defined by presence, responsibility, love, and the willingness to keep learning.
At his best, a father says without words: You are not alone. I see you. I will guide you. I will stand beside you until you can stand on your own.
