Every month I will have a little something here for you! It may be my thoughts or an interview with an intriguing guest or…well, you’ll just have to come back and see.

I wanted the first posting to convey just how precious time is. Since my daughter’s birth, I‘ve found out that the old adage “time flies” is true! You hear it growing up and like most young people you take it for granted. You write it off as something “Old People” say. And then, you see it right before your eyes. That ol’ saying is the truth!

It really does seem like yesterday I “velcroed” Taylor’s first little gym shoes on her feet. Today, I am wistfully reminiscing those days. She will enter high school next year and is very much a young lady already. How did that happen so quickly?

So please, don’t lose the moments. Too often fathers find themselves too busy, too self-consumed or, truthfully, too trifling to make sure they share in many of the moments that mark a lifetime. These are moments you can’t get back. Moments you can’t recapture. The time you spend with your daughter is irreplaceable. It is also invaluable to her and to YOU. The occasions spent together riding in the car, watching a movie or just talking as you eat an ice cream cone shape both of you. So, if she is three or 33, take some time and hangout with her. Get to know her and who she is (and in turn who you are.)

Remember, men must have a role in shaping their child’s life. We often overlook the impact we have on the lives of others…especially our children.

Daddy’s Promise is here to salute those men who have stepped up and been strong forces in the lives of their daughters. We are also here to encourage those who have not been the influence they can, should and must be.

Throughout the year we are going to keep the call going through efforts, images and projects. But, most importantly we “Brothas” are going to speak with a collective voice and let everyone know; WE ARE HERE TO GIVE A LIFETIME OF LOVE TO OUR “BABY GIRLS.”

WE PROMISE!

Finally, I want to say “Thank YOU!!” to our headline sponsor Bounty and our national tour sponsor Ford. Both companies came on board and are showing their commitment to this initiative. Also, thanks to our community partner 100 Black Men for taking a stand and showing that black men can and will “do the right thing.”