It's Father's Day!

                Hey! What better way to start off my blogging journey than on Father’s Day talking about the most important man in my life. My papa, Jimmy Dirden was such a great role model and inspiration in my life, and I’m so grateful and appreciative for the time I had with him before he passed. My grandfather taught me everything from playing pool, fishing, riding a bike, and so much more. Most importantly, he taught me the importance of being a leader and leading with a servant’s heart.

                When I was about six years old, my papa partnered with the Arkansas Food Bank and started a nonprofit food bank in Benton, Arkansas. Since I spent the majority of my childhood right under my papa, I saw firsthand his dedication to bettering his community and the sacrifices he had to make in order to do so. Because of him, my platform now as an adult focuses on the importance of Feeding America, and what we can do in order to make sure nobody in our communities goes without. While working in our community food bank, I met so many people who didn't have the means necessary to feed their children, or who struggled to provide toiletries, clothing, and sometimes even housing for their children and loved ones. My grandfather worked tirelessly to make sure that everyone who came for help, no matter what time it was, had what they needed and more, and because of his undying passion for helping others, I now have that same passion.

                My love for God and devotion to becoming a better person through Christ also comes from my grandfather. He was the Sunday school teacher at his church in Benton, AR., and taught me about how truly amazing Christ is, and instilled in me the importance of Faith. I remember wanting to play with my toys all the time, and at 6pm every night, he would make me stop playing, sit down, and read scriptures so that on Sunday, I could say a few words about what I learned. Even though as a child, I didn't like having to read and study my Sunday school lesson instead of playing or watching tv, I’m so glad that my papa pushed me into learning, and getting to have a relationship with God.

                When I was in middle school, my papa was diagnosed with Dementia. My mom and grandmother never told me what was going on, but I knew something wasn't right. As time progressed, we moved him to Little Rock into a home with a woman who specialized in taking care of patients with dementia. By 11th grade, he'd forgotten who I was which was really hard, because my papa stepped up as my dad, and he was my favorite person in the whole world. My papa would always say that he would sing at my graduation, and dance at my wedding. When I graduated from Little Rock Central High School in 2014, I was so happy to have my papa there with me. Even though he didn't know who was graduating, he still congratulated me for my accomplishments, and was so proud of me. A year and two days later, on May 24, 2015, my grandfather passed away. I live every day to make him proud, the people of Arkansas proud, and to remain a faithful servant of Christ, living with a servant’s heart.

                Happy Father’s Day to all of the fathers who have done whatever is necessary to provide for their families. Your love and support does not go unnoticed and I know that your children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, younger cousins, or whomever may be looking up to appreciates all that you do.

-Ciao, JoJo

#papa #fathersday