I love my father and I thank God for that. All I would want in a good father is to have one who is respectful, encouraging, available and gives unconditional love.

Even though sometimes he thinks that I’m still just a little girl, he respects me. For example, I was going to get married. He was okay with that. Then after six months I said, “I don’t want to get married anymore.” It was a painful decision to make, but he respected me and I’m grateful for that.

My father always encourages me. Sometimes I feel I want to drop out of school and never come back, but he is always there to encourage me not to do that. He is always encouraging me to do everything that is good.

My father is always available for me. He is always there for me when I need him. He gives me his love. He shows me how much he cares about me.

My dad is a very nice man and I love him very much. Every kid should have a father like him. He’s like a role model for me. He makes me proud.

I’m happy and lucky to have a father who cares, is respectful, loving and encouraging. All I can say is that I am really lucky and grateful.

Marie Petion grew up in Haiti. She misses the friendly people and the big celebrations on every holiday.  “I came to the United States and I didn't think I would be happy, but I am. I'm working and I go to school.  I can't give up now because going to school is very important to me. I want to have a better career.” She is a GED at Quinsigamond Community College.