David Campbell: 'I only started celebrating Father's Day when I had kids'

I have only really been celebrating Father's Day for nine years. 

I am so very lucky to have three kids whom I adore. But before that I thought it was just another "Hallmark Holiday", one that seemed completely unnecessary and was there purely to complement Mother's Day, and to get rid of a few power tools before the Christmas sales.

I thought this because I didn't really have a father at the time to celebrate this day. 

Even once I knew about my own parentage, we were never close enough when I was a lad to open cards and presents.

So for a long time I just watched other families have special days for their dads and granddads. I didn't feel sorry for myself, not at all.

I knew who my father was, but I also knew deep down it was a strange situation. 

So, I would fit in more with kids whose fathers were no longer around.

My story turned out fine and I find myself  in my 40's getting closer to my father and knowing it was all worth the wait.

I guess it's harder for those who cannot have this, no matter what the reason. 

These types of celebrations must bring such sadness to days like this. 

Even though these once-a-year events are totally made up to sell cards, it still makes us think. Think of our childhoods.

Think about our children and the parent who is missing so much of their lives. It may not be their fault, but the sadness is still the same.

If you're lucky enough to be surrounded by love, make sure you look around to see if someone needs some help. Invite them to lunch or give them a call.

Today will be hard. It will be lonely. You can help take their mind off it for a while.