When I think of Father’s Day, I don’t just think of dads—I think of my grandfather.


He was my rock, my oak tree, my father figure, and my friend. For 28 years, he stood by me through every milestone.


My grandpa was always serious—with everyone except me. Maybe it’s because I wasn’t just his granddaughter; he loved me like his youngest daughter. His way of showing love was constant presence. He shared stories with me—his youth, his dreams, even his love stories. At 72 years young, he still had the charm of a true López—a heartbreaker, through and through.


But just like it happened with my grandma, cancer came and took him away far too soon. In just three months, I watched the strongest man I knew wither away. His voice grew faint, his smile dimmed, and eventually, he was gone. The house felt empty. The room felt silent. And our family lost one of its roots.


Thirteen years have passed, and the ache of missing him is still very real. I often find myself wondering if he knew how much he meant to me—if I had enough time to love him out loud and thank him for helping shape the woman I’ve become. Everything I’ve done, do, and will continue to do is in honor of him. I hope, wherever he is, he’s proud.


There’s a lyric by Ricardo Arjona that says, "Uno no está donde el cuerpo, sino donde más lo extrañan.” We are not where our body is, but where we are most missed. That line hits differently when you’ve lost someone who meant the world to you.

And I miss him so, so much.


Sometimes, he visits me in dreams. I hug him tightly and don’t want to let go. Those moments feel real—like little reminders that he’s still with me, even if I can’t see him.


So, this Father’s Day, I want to honor not just my grandpa, but every incredible man who takes on the role of father—biological dads, stepfathers, grandfathers, uncles, mentors, and father figures. Your love shapes lives. Your guidance creates legacies. And your presence—whether past or present—matters more than words can say.


Happy Father’s Day to all of you. And to my viejito—I love you, always.