Dwyane Wade has been an inspiration for millions. When a guy can be a mentor to LeBron James, perhaps, his experience and teachings have some value. Whether as a player, a husband, a brother, or most importantly, a father, Wade continues to inspire us all. However, a role of a father is a difficult one, especially if associated with racial stereotypes. But, ever since his retirement, D-Wade has continued to prove the doubters wrong. He’s had a lot to work on, as he himself claims, but the effort is clear as day.

Hence, days after his confession, Wade had a heartwarming picture to share with his daughter Zaya.

Dwyane Wade shows that he is father goals

Wade has always shared a close bond with his family. Whether it be his wife, Gabrielle Union, or his 5 children, Dwyane has made them a clear priority. Various gestures from both sides have further cemented the bond that the family shares.

Zaire’s iconic recreation of father Wade’s commercial was the first true hint of the depth of their bond. Since then multiple instances have shown us how close all of them are. Certainly makes sense since Wade has been a true role model as a father.

In the latest, days after his heartfelt admission, Wade shared an Instagram story with his daughter Zaya where the two held hands. After the long and arduous road that the two have followed through their relationship, seeing this must be particularly tear-inducing for basketball fans.

In an interview with People, the Miami Heat legend was honest in admitting the barriers that the two have crossed together.

Wade’s honesty makes him excel as a father

He himself claims that he thought he was among the “cool” dads. So, it came as a genuine shock to him when he walked in and saw Zaya terrified of him, clinging to his wife. As he recalls, the situation was a gut punch for him.

Read More: Daughter Zaya’s Fear Slapped Dwyane Wade With a Brutal Reality Check of His Parenting Skills

“That first moment of seeing that…I had to go look at myself in the mirror and ask why was my child scared to tell me something about herself.” That maturity of understanding your flaws and taking proactive steps to work on them is what has allowed Wade to be a “Father first.” 

As he puts it in his Instagram bio, Wade has made his children his priority, and the effects are obvious. With men like Dwyane Wade raising the next generation of stars and icons, we can all breathe a little easier.

Watch This Story: Stepping In To “Take The Biggest Hit” With LeBron James And Chris Bosh, Dwyane Wade Recounts 13Yo “Sacrifice”