I just wrote a column about summer called Summer So Far. In it, I wrote about all of the wonderful things that have happened to me this summer and of how magical the summer is. I just realized that there is one thing that is missing from this summer. It is the same thing that has been missing from all of my summers since 1981 – my father.

I realize that he passed away 18 years ago, but sometimes – like right now – I still feel like it was yesterday. I have been through so many life experiences since he passed away. Jobs, girlfriends, school, good times, bad times and I just cant help but think about him and wonder how different my life would be and what my life would be like if he were still here.

Take this summer for instance. With all the things I have done, both for work and for fun, how much more fun would they have been if my dad were still here? How cool would it have been if he came with us to Brian’s sister’s house for the 4th of July? Or, how about if we celebrated Memorial Day weekend at my father’s house? Or what about my TV show; my dad was an advertising executive, he would have helped the show a lot.

All I’m saying is, while my life may be exactly where I want it to be. I just wish that my dad were here to share it with me. No matter how successful I become, I always feel that not being able to share any of that success with my father will always leave an emptiness that I will not be able to fill.

Most of my friends still have their fathers. Sometimes when I go to their houses, I am jealous of the fact that they still have their fathers in their lives. If you still have your father, do me a favor – just for me – go up to him and give him a hug, or call him and tell him you love him. If you do not have your father anymore, stop and talk to him for a moment. Tell him that you miss him and you love him, and that every day for the rest of your life, you will think of him.

And dad. I know I can never spend a day with you in person. But I promise that I think of you every day, and I will for the rest of my life.