Fathers are often seen as the “practical” parent, one who provides solutions and maintains a stoic demeanor rather than offering emotional support. While these traits can be valuable, they sometimes fall short when all we need is a comforting presence during tough times.
Occasionally, however, we encounter stories of fathers defying these stereotypes with remarkable empathy and understanding. Such was the case for Fallon Thompson, who shared a deeply touching text message from her dad following a breakup. This message has resonated with countless others, highlighting the profound impact a compassionate father can have.
In her video, Thompson recounted how her father witnessed her breakup and subsequently reached out with heartfelt advice. His message began with reflections on his own experiences with love and relationships, emphasizing how his past heartbreaks had ultimately led him to the right partner.
“Hey baby girl, here is some perspective from your old man,” he started. “I’ve been through many relationships—everything from one-night stands to serious commitments—until I met your mom.” He explained how these past experiences helped him recognize the genuine connection he found with her mother.
He reassured Thompson that her current pain was a necessary part of her journey towards finding the right person. “What you are dealing with today is essential for you to eventually know when someone is truly right for you,” he said.
He also encouraged her to view the breakup positively, reminding her that her time is valuable and she hasn’t wasted it on someone who wasn’t fully committed. “When someone shows you that you’re not right for them, they’ve given you the most valuable gift—your time,” he advised. “Celebrate that your life is still yours and you’re not tied to someone who didn’t want you completely.”
The message concluded with a powerful metaphor. Comparing the storm to life’s challenges, he said that cows run away from storms and end up suffering longer, while bulls face the storm head-on, experiencing the worst initially but quickly finding relief. “Be the bull,” he urged. “Lean into your storm. Embrace the struggle and let it strengthen you. You are strong enough to endure, and soon you’ll find peace.”
This touching message not only comforted his daughter but also struck a chord with many others who encountered it online. Responses ranged from gratitude to admiration for the father’s emotional intelligence.
In a subsequent interview with Buzzfeed, Scott, Thompson’s father, spoke about the importance of emotional availability for fathers. “To the dads out there, just be present. Invest in your children’s lives. They face challenges we can’t always understand, so it’s crucial to support them through both triumphs and difficulties,” he said. “Hug your kids, be vulnerable with them, and express your love often.”
Research underscores the importance of fathers in fostering emotional resilience in their children. Even indirect experiences of such supportive relationships can be profoundly healing. Dads like Scott remind us of the significant, positive influence a father’s love can have.