I Didn't Really Know My Father, Barack Obama Recounts His Childhood
- Former US President Barack Obama grew up without a father figure
- Despite that, he managed to join politics and rise into a polished, celebrated and bright president
- However, the road to his success was not easy
- The father of two said he had to figure his way through life and teach himself how to become a man
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A strong father figure is important in a young boy's growth. A dad plays the role of a leader, a protector, a moral compass and an adviser when it comes to the upbringing of a male child.
Most times, men who were raised away from their fathers argue that they missed out on a lot. They needed the bonding, the teachings and the guidance of a father but lacked it.
Source: UGC
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Former US President Barack Obama opened up on how his Kenyan father's absence affected him as he transitioned from a child to a man.
According to the retired leader, he did not really know his father. At least not the way he wished he did.
Obama’s dad left his mum when he was just two years old.
The late scholar visited the former US president once and would occasionally converse with him through letters.
“He left my mother and me when I was two years old, and only travelled from Kenya to visit us once, when I was ten. That trip was the first and last I saw of him; after that, I heard from him only through the occasional letter, written on thin blue airmail paper that was preprinted to fold and address without an envelope,” the father of two wrote in a Facebook post.
Obama, who met his father aged 10, said that single visit greatly impacted his life.
Thanks to the ex-president's dad, he received his first basketball and was introduced to the groove of Jazz music.
Unfortunately, he also learnt that it was upon him to learn how to become a man.
Obama knew that no one would teach him and he had to figure it out on his own.
As earlier reported by Legit.ng, Obama and his better half Michelle Obama have maintained their puppy love throughout their marriage.
They celebrate each other grandly during birthdays and make their anniversaries unforgettable.
As Michelle turned 57, Obama wanted her to know that she is and will always be his best friend.
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Owolawi Taiwo is an entertainment and lifestyle journalist at Legit.ng with over two years working experience in the media industry. She has a degree in English and International Studies from Osun State University, Osogbo. When she is not reporting on celebrity lifestyle, you will find her listening to music, reading, learning new recipes.
Source: Legit.ng
Taiwo Owolawi (Entertainment Editor) Taiwo Owolawi is an entertainment and lifestyle journalist with four years of work experience at Legit.ng. She graduated from Osun State University with a degree in English and International Studies in 2016. She has also moved on to pursue courses in Public Relations and Copywriting. Taiwo emerged as Legit.ng's Best Entertainment Editor in 2022. Contact: taiwo.owolawi@corp.legit.ng.
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