Fatherhood has been on my mind a lot lately, especially after filming Just 1 Minute with my sister Ty and her daughters. Watching her be such an incredible mom made me think deeply about what it would be like to have children of my own. It’s a huge decision—one that comes with its own set of challenges and rewards, particularly for someone in the LGBTQ+ community.
The Pros of Fatherhood
Unconditional Love: The bond between a parent and a child is profound, offering a love that’s pure and unconditional.
Creating a Legacy: Fatherhood allows you to pass down your values, traditions, and stories, creating a lasting legacy.
Personal Growth: Being a parent challenges you to grow in ways you never expected, teaching patience, responsibility, and selflessness.
Shared Experiences: The memories you create with your children—from teaching them to ride a bike to guiding them through life—are some of the most cherished.
The Cons of Fatherhood
Financial Responsibility: Raising a child is expensive, with costs that include everything from diapers to college tuition.
Time Commitment: Parenting requires a significant investment of time and energy—it’s a full-time job without breaks.
Emotional Toll: The emotional challenges of parenting, from worrying about your child’s well-being to handling conflicts, can be exhausting.
Impact on Lifestyle: Fatherhood often means prioritizing your child’s needs over your own, leading to changes in your social life and personal time.
I was recently dating someone who talked about wanting kids, which made me seriously consider what fatherhood might look like for me. For a moment, I could picture it all—late-night feedings, school plays, family vacations. The idea of raising a child with someone I cared about felt like a beautiful possibility. But just as quickly as those thoughts came, they were overshadowed by disappointment when he ghosted me. It was a harsh reminder that not everyone who talks about a future with you is actually ready for it. It left me questioning whether fatherhood is something I genuinely want, or if I was just caught up in the idea because someone else planted the seed.
Fatherhood is a beautiful dream, but it’s also a serious commitment that requires careful thought and planning. Spending time with Ty and her girls gave me a glimpse of what that life could be like, but it also made me realize that it’s not something to rush into. The dream is still there, but I know it will happen when the timing is right, and the person by my side is truly ready to take that journey with me.
In the meantime, check out the latest episode of Just 1 Minute. If you want to see how this idea of fatherhood plays out in a fictional context, be sure to watch it (well I mean I really do spend time with my babies). It’s a glimpse into how life and art sometimes reflect each other in surprising ways. Check it out!
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