"An Open Letter To My Son On Father's Day" By Jim Jones

Nine years ago my life changed. I no longer was only known as the rapper Jim Jones from Harlem, I now had a son and added the title “Dad” to my long list of achievements...it is the most important job to me in the world. 

As a kid, my father wasn't around much, but when he did come around I considered it Father's Day, regardless of the day or month. I remember the excitement I would feel when he entered a room and after he passed, those memories stayed with me and still do to this day.

Now, I do everything to make sure my son is happy and feels the same joy I felt when I was younger. Being a rapper & entertainer means a life of touring, clubs and countless hours of recording at the studio, so while I'm not always there, I hope that my son knows that everything I do is for him.

When I come home and he asks, "Dad were you working?" I know that while only 9, he understands that a man must work hard to provide for his family and I am that example and role model for him.

To the mothers, grandparents and uncles who fill the void for absent fathers...thank you.

When my father wasn't around, I relied on my mother, grandparents, and uncle to be there for me so I celebrate them this Father's Day as well.

To the fathers, be sure to tell your kids you love them and make time for them. That alone, can make all the difference in a child's life.

As we raise the next generation of men and women, remember that they deserve to have fathers who are present; physically, emotionally and financially.  

Fatherhood is the best thing that could've happened to me, so this is a special and meaningful holiday. The smile on my son's face is the greatest gift I could ever get.

- Jim Jones