I’m Jonathan, but many know me by Luke.  Originally from Nyack, New York, yet raised in Portsmouth, VA.  A hard working, loving, dedicated father of two incredible kids who is proud to be recognized by GLAD DADS.  Although they may not notice what or why I move the way I do now, I pray they understand later on that it’s all for them.

1. What has been the best part of fatherhood for you?

It’s all been enjoyable honestly.  Whether up or down, I realize it all has helped shape me into a better person, a better father etc.  That in itself is a major part of what life’s about, being the best you, you can be.

2. What is the most important lesson that you have learned since becoming a father?

That in the grand scheme of things, life isn’t about me anymore.  From even some of the simplest things, to the most personal/decisions/instances, I’ve got to think about my kids prior to choosing to go left or right (figuratively speaking).

3. What is the secret to being a good father to your children?

Making time for them and being understanding.  And just as in all other relationships, I treat my kids the way I’d want them to treat me.  I’m a little tough at times but that’s because I know what they’re capable of, even Charlee at her age.  It’s all definitely out of love and me just trying the best I know how, to steer them in the right direction.

4. What does Fatherhood mean to you?

For the last 10yrs it’s been synonymous with life.  It’s meant everything.  From love to responsibility to teachings, experiences, lessons learned and so on.

5. What do you feel is the best piece of advice that you have ever given your children?

Well Makhi is 10 so I’ve been able to tell him a bit more than Charlee.  I’m always telling him to be his own person.  Do what he knows is right and always tell the truth.  Look out for his sister and never trip…on anything.  Life’s downs are inevitable but that get back is what it’s all about.  Charlee will be 2 in August, so, telling her the stove is hot, and not to play with scissors is probably the best I’ve given her thus far, lol.  Not sure if the rest is advice but I constantly remind her how beautiful she is and that she’s daddy’s princess.  Prayerfully that sticks with her through life and she’ll remember to carry herself as such and never allow anyone to treat her any less than I always have and will.

6. How does your parenting style differ from the style of your parents?

Hmmmmmm.  My mom was always pretty laid back.  She got on me when need be so not much differs from her style of parenting.  My dad was there but not as much as I would’ve liked, so I make it my business to try and be there for my kids as much as possible.  Makhi is becoming his own man so he’s kind of doing his own thing now and understandably so.  So it’s a lot of Charlee and I at the moment.  But just being there every step of the way and reassuring them both of that is how my father and I differ when it comes to parenting styles.

7. If you could go back in time and tell yourself one thing before you became a father what would you say?

8. What piece of advice do you have for fathers who are not currently present in the lives of their children?

Fix it man.  Get it right.  Yeah, time has passed and they can’t get the moments missed back, but it’s never too late to make it right and be there for your children.  If you can’t do anything else, giving them a shoulder to lean on and an ear from someone who should love them unconditionally, without judgement … that there is priceless.

9. What is the one moment since you became a father has changed your life forever?

I really can’t pinpoint one particular moment.  If anything I’d have to say once it really hit me that I was a father initially.  Like, man, I just had a little boy.  A human being who is going to depend on me for everything for quite some time.  I think thats a moment for sure, that changed my life forever.  By the time I had my little girl the parenting thing
was kind of routine, but the same feeling hit me again, and the need to further tighten up was felt.

10. What do you feel your legacy as a father will be?

Prayerfully I’ll be the “poster” father in my kids eyes, and they’ll be able to tell stories about me, and us and what we did and how i handled certain situations etc.  Hopefully they’ll have plenty of good times to speak on for years to come.  I’d like that.