【Monica Swinn】

Earlier this month,Monica Swinn Redditor @thejohnblog made waves when he accompanied his daughter to a local comic-con dressed as Princess Peach.

Now, he's replied to his critics -- those who called his outfit "emasculating," among others -- in a moving open letter on Reddit.

SEE ALSO: You'll want to hug this octopus costume with all 8 arms Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

In the letter, the dad discusses responsibilities of being a parent -- including participating in the things that bring his daughter joy.

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"When you become a parent, it does not take much work to make your child happy," he wrote. "If they want to be silly and express themselves, and want to include you ... you can cling to your masculinity or own hobbies ... or you can do the little work."

Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

He also emphasized that kids need to know self-expression is -- surprise -- a good thing.

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"I need to remind her that there is fun to be had in our activities together and that any creative projects or ideas she has has the same importance as anything I have planned," he wrote.

"I fight a lot to make sure she never suppresses her silliness because people are staring," he added.

Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Finally, he reiterated that his job isn't to please internet critics -- it's to be a role model.

"My job as a parent is hard," he wrote. "It's the hardest one I have ever had. But making your kids happy is not hard."

We think this commenter summed it up nicely.

Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

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