Dear Dr. Meeker,
I just wanted to thank you for your book “Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters”.
As a new father to an 8-month-old daughter, I thought I knew enough on what it meant to be a good dad. I was aware that she would one day grow up, and when those teen years came along, there would be that normal friction that occurs with those confusing years. But then I happened across your book, and after flipping through a few chapters, I knew it was a book I had to have.
The topics you covered were not only informative and inspiring, but at times just plain scary. I didn’t realize what challenges my daughter will have to face before the age of 8, let alone 15. I didn’t know how poisonous this MTV culture was, bombarding little impressionable girls with toxic ideas of what beauty is, its casual ideas on sex and drugs, and how influential young boys can be on vulnerable girls.
One of the most thought provoking and heartbreaking examples I can recall from the book was the fourth-grade girl from a good family who hated her father because she inadvertently came across a violent rape scene on TV before dinner. As a result of that exposure, the girl came to the conclusion that all sex was like this, and her father must have put her mother through that kind of pain in order for her to be born.
After reading that startling passage alone, I realized that there was so much poison out there that could corrupt and destroy our children. In addition, it took me longer than usual to finish your book because I often found myself in deep thought, wondering what kind of father I could be to my little girl if faced with the scenarios you put forth. But it was time well spent. Before reading your book, I felt that being a father was the most natural thing I’ve ever done. But after your book, I feel more inspired than ever to be the father my little girl deserves. I’m ready and willing to fight for her mind, body, and soul. And I’m ready to be the most important man in her life and her hero.
I’m a full-time father, and I’m proud to say that my daughter is a beautiful, happy, and thriving child. And thanks to you, I will fight to make sure she grows up to be a well-rounded, confident, and grounded woman. It will be a challenge, but she’s worth it.
Thank you again, Dr. Meeker. Your book was a godsend, and I would recommend your book to any father raising a little girl.
Sincerely,
Orlando
