11 Comments

Kern, I don't always pay attention to my notifications; I just have too many. I'm glad I did today, though. First, I received your excellent advice on writing a memoir (the three tips) and then I read this because of that piece. (Aside: have you seen the show The Lake [I think that's the title]? It's about a gay dad who first enters his daughter's life when she's already a teen, and gets summer custody of her, and how it changes them both. I'd call it a dramedy: funny, touching on serious themes with some poignant and/or stressful moments, but with an 'everything ends well' kind of vibe.)

As I was saying, though, your writing and this piece are both incredible, and you have earned a new fan, well-deserved.

Expand full comment

Wonderful, engaging story. From the very first sentence was I completely captivated and felt every emotion poured into this piece. Thank you for sharing!

Expand full comment

Beautiful piece ✨

Expand full comment

Wow; eyes are tearing up and just one thought is occupying the entire brain and that is be patient to bring happiness and freedom from the pain ( both physical as well as emotional)

Expand full comment

Such a beautiful, moving story. I love hearing about fathers who want to take care of their daughters. That makes such a huge difference for a girl.

Expand full comment

You write beautifully, Kern. The story was gripping from start to finish. I could not stop reading. Thanks for sharing.

Expand full comment

Thank you for reading 🙏🏾

Expand full comment

I have been through something similar and struggle to find a way to tell my story without risking further drama/damage even though it's been over 5 years since all of it... fear about the people involved being hurt or hurting me is the biggest writer's block I've ever had. So I am curious about any advice you have now that it's many years later still... do you regret anything you've written? Do you wish you said more, or said things differently?

Expand full comment

No regrets at all, Ashley. My story has touched more people than it's made uncomfortable and for me, personally, has helped put some closure on something that was heavy on my heart. That said, it took me years to write about this so take your time.

Expand full comment

Truly beautiful piecr.

Expand full comment

This is such a brave piece-touching and true.

Expand full comment