Mark Gertz, Founding member of Dark Wave Disco & 1/3 of the Dark Wave Disco DJs

What do you love most about being a dad?"The thing I love most about being a dad has to be watching this little being grow and develop and look up to me for approval and to be influenced and just in general having this awesome, beautiful little person whom I love so dearly wanting to be like I am, be it through music, style, etc.  It's so cool to be looking into almost a small mirror of yourself and the joy every new little thing they do and learn and say brings me.  Above all, I am honored to have been given the responsibility to let forth into this world something that will in the end leave a positive mark and in turn set a positive example for others."

What is one thing about your life that has changed the most since becoming a dad?
 "The thing that has changed the most in my life personally is the sense that now I have something to force me to always be a truly good person.  I really am a role model and have to set a positive example that will leave a lasting mark on this individual.  It also makes me strive harder to accomplish my goals, given the thought that there is something worthwhile in my life to be living for."

Any advice for dads-to-be?
"As for advice for "dad's-to-be", not to reiterate what I previously mentioned, but seriously, you ARE a role model!  Everything you do has an impact on this life you're bringing into the world and it's 100% your responsibility to give to the world someone who in the end is going to have a positive impact.  Don't forget also that you are still the same person.  Be who you are and be proud of yourself. You have someone who is about to be looking at you as their everything from the start.  Show them that they can be whatever they dream of and don't have to fall into any sort of mold or status quo.  Nothing is more important than an open mind and a free thinking spirit."


Photo: Courtesy of Mark Gertz