I was born in Jamaica.

So I really love being by the water.

The first time I came to the Beaches was a really happy memory for me.

Canada Day 2005.

It was with my wife on our first family outing. With a limousine stroller.

Not every memory is easy for me though.

I brought my kids here once, and they were riding their bikes. I was so excited to be that father. To have that moment.

I briefly couldn’t find one of my sons.

The anxiety I felt was awful.

I felt like a fraud. Especially because of the work I do with black fathers.

But I love this place.

Being by the water gives me life. 

And reminds me of home.

Thanks to Brandon for sharing his story. Check out his organization, The Black Daddies Club, a group devoted to developing a support system and address issues facing black fathers,  and working with the media to promote alternative images of black fathers.

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