Publisher Letter

Dear Natural Awakenings family,

June is a difficult month for me—Father’s Day. My father was murdered a few years ago. It wasn’t just that he died—we all have a date with destiny. It was the way he was taken. Two young people that knew him didn’t understand the impact of their selfish, thoughtless act of violence—or the permanent void it would leave, not only in my life, but in my heart.  

My father and I didn’t always have the best relationship. Our history was complicated, marked by both distance and closeness. My biological mother passed into the ancestral realm when I was 5, and my younger brother was only 11 months old. We were fortunate that, later, my dad found love again and married the woman that would raise us. She never referred to us as stepchildren or bonus children—we were simply her children.  

Now, as we transition into the summer solstice, a new season begins. It’s a time of releasing what no longer serves us so we can reap a harvest of hope. As a woman of faith, I understand the significance of seasonal change and the opportunities it brings. When my father was suddenly taken, I entered a winter season—dark, depressing and cold. 

I grieved in a way I had never known. I was too young to fully understand the loss of my mother, but I had 53 years with my father. There was a time in my younger years when we didn’t speak for about six months—it felt like an eternity. I’m so grateful nothing happened to him during that time. 

Some of us are harboring anger, unforgiveness, regret, resentment or indignation. These emotions hold us emotionally hostage, keeping us from moving forward. Forgiveness is a choice—not for the one that hurt us, but for ourselves. I’m so thankful I chose to forgive my dad. We were able to share a beautiful FaceTime call the day before he was taken. We ended it with “I love you,” not knowing it would be our last. 

The man I had once been so angry with became my best friend and confidant. That happened because I made a decision—not just to forgive, but to love. I chose to love my dad simply because he was my dad. 

To those struggling with forgiveness: We never know when moments will become memories. Whether you need to forgive a parent—or you’re a parent longing for reconciliation with a child—don’t wait. If you’re estranged from your children—keep calling, keep texting, keep writing, keep praying. But most of all, keep fighting and loving. Don’t give up. 

To all the men that are fathers, grandfathers, uncles, coaches, educators and mentors—we celebrate, honor and appreciate you. You are unsung heroes. You matter. Have a beautiful Father’s Day season.  

I love you all,

Ms. Tracy