My mother remarried a few years after she and my father separated. But not long after that, tragedy struck—she passed away in a car accident when I was only nine years old. Before my tenth birthday, I had already lost both of my biological parents.
After my mother’s death, I went to live with her husband, Steve Randle. He wasn’t my biological father, but he showed me what it truly means to be a dad. Steve devoted his entire life to raising me and my younger brother and sister.
When Steve first met my mom, he was a successful lawyer with a bright future. But when he suddenly became a single parent to three children, he sacrificed so much of his personal happiness, comfort, and ambitions to give us the life we needed.
Steve taught me more about life than anyone else ever could.
He taught me to believe in myself.
He taught me the importance of commitment, family, and faith in God.
He guided me through every major decision I ever had to make. I never made a significant personal or professional choice without turning to him for advice.
Because of him, I finished college. Because of his guidance, I chose my career path. And today, I am a better father to my own children because of the example he set for me every single day.
Being a real father has nothing to do with biology. It is about love, sacrifice, support, and unwavering encouragement. I proudly carry his last name—Randle. To me, that name is worth more than money, success, or any title I could ever earn.
I admire many people in my life, but my dad is my only true hero.
Happy Father’s Day, Dad. I am forever grateful to be your son.
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