My dad is in his 60s, has lived through hell, and is now graduating. I have no idea what to get him.

r/

Hi everyone,

Title of the post says most of it. My dad has had multiple near-death experiences in the last 2 years, and been through a massive amount outside of that in the same timeframe.

It’s frankly nothing short of a miracle that he’s completing his degree right now. It’s a little emotional, and I’m really proud of him.

But…I feel like a shitty kid because I don’t know what to get him. I’d like to give something sentimental. And he’s really good at that sort of gift. When I graduated, he had the parking token from the day I was born put on a necklace. He gave my brother a watch, because that’s what his dad had given him.

I have an experience gift lined up for us, which I know will mean a lot to him, but would like to give him something tangible.

I love him, but he’s kind of picky. I don’t know. I feel silly. But would love to hear if you have ideas, or have been given a gift that resonated with you.

I don’t have a massive budget, but can also lean on my credit card a little.

(Also, if this question belongs somewhere else instead, apologies! And please let me know.)

Comments

  1. mr_e_r31event Avatar

    Get him a pen and say it’s the pen he took notes with on the first day of his degree

  2. Homer_04_13 Avatar

    What does he like?

    What does he hope to do with the degree?

    What is important to him? 

  3. datPandaAgain Avatar

    Get a beautiful frame to put his certificate in…
    Maybe collage it with photos of his big day.

  4. katiej712 Avatar

    A heart felt letter goes a long way

  5. MelbsGal Avatar

    Get a pen and a piece of paper and write out all the reasons you are so proud of him. Tell him how glad you are that he survived. Tell him you love him and that he is a wonderful Dad, one you look up to and has inspired you to be a stronger and more determined person. Tell him how much you appreciate the thoughtfulness, love and support that he has provided you whilst going through difficult times himself.

    The feelings and emotions that you have are what make you definitely NOT a shitty kid so give him your feelings and emotions on a piece of paper. As a parent, there is nothing that would touch me more.

    Put your heart proudly on your sleeve and let your Dad know exactly what you think.