In a time when families are broken down, blended up and statistically you are more likely to be missing a solid father figure in your life, we decided to ask some of our friends who we think make great dads, spiritually, biologically, to the church, and to the student generation, to write to you. So just in case your dad never got to speak into your life in the way you'd hoped, here's a postcard from dad to you. 

Hi, 

I just thought I’d drop you a little note to encourage you and spur you on today! We miss you at home, but someone once reminded me that we raise our children to let them go, so I give myself a wee talking to if I need it…especially when I go into your room and see the empty shelves and drawers! 

I am so proud of you, but it didn’t take you going off to uni for me to feel that; I’ve always been proud of you, since the moment I clapped eyes on you! My love for you and pride in you is not about all the stuff you’ve achieved, but more about who you’re becoming and what you’re about. 

It is a long time ago now since I was in your position, though it seems like only yesterday. You will possibly have a similar (but not the same, I know!)  sense of independence, new beginnings and anticipation that I had, but I also found it tough at times and I felt lonely and not up to the mark, especially when I compared myself to a lot of the brain boxes around me. Here’s the thing though - you ARE enough and so is God. It won’t surprise you to hear me say this, but “find a mentor!”; someone to help you keep it real and pray for you. Ask the church to help you find one. 

I’m off now to put your room on Airbnb - just kidding!! ; )

Your biggest fan,

Dad xx

PS ‘Do what you can, with what you have, where you are’ - Theodore Roosevelt.