Men in Heels: A Father’s Day Reflection

By Ceirid Sampson Bereavement Councilor

Belgroves Funeral Home Limited

I remember it like it was yesterday.

I was taking my daughter to buy a pair of shoes. While browsing, her eyes lit up as she spotted a sparkling pair of sandals. I thought she was simply drawn to the glitter, but then came her unexpected request:

“Dad, try these on.”

“You mean now? Here? In front of everyone?” I asked.

“Yes,” she replied with a grin.

I felt ridiculous. Picture a grown man, size 10 feet, awkwardly squeezing into shoes designed for a little girl wearing size 3. But I couldn’t say no. The entire store burst into laughter, and I will never forget the joy on my daughter’s face.

Funny as it was, this story isn’t really about the shoes. It’s about what it means to stand in a space that wasn’t made for you and stay there anyway.

Being a single father often felt just like that: awkward, uncomfortable, and at times impossible to handle with grace. But my responsibility was clear to show my daughter that love, real love, shows up in all kinds of shoes.

I became both mom and dad: handling morning routines, packing lunches, navigating bedtime tears  and yes, braiding hair (though I could never quite get the ribbon straight). Thanks to YouTube tutorials, I eventually mastered the art. I learned how to navigate the delicate world of a young girl’s emotions, figured out the difference between lip balm and lip gloss, and found myself answering questions I never imagined I’d be prepared for.

To me, that’s what fatherhood looks like. It’s not about being flawless  it’s about being faithful. It’s about showing up, learning as you go, and yes, sometimes wobbling in heels that don’t fit.

This Father’s Day, let’s honor the dads who:

• Take on roles they were never taught.
• Walk uncomfortable paths to ensure their children feel seen, heard, and loved.

To the fathers wearing both hats — and sometimes heels — I see you. And I thank you.

Happy Father’s Day.