Principle #5 – See Dads and Role Models Bigger Than They See Themselves
We celebrated Mother’s Day in May, and now it’s June, so guess what? You’re right…time to celebrate Father’s Day. The role of fathers has changed in the last ten to fifteen years. Long gone are the days of a father going to work and coming home to dinner on the table and not being involved with the kids. Fathers now share the duties of cooking, cleaning, and raising children.
“We never know the love of the parent for the child till we become parents.” – Henry Ward Beecher
I don’t know what it’s like to be a dad, so I asked my husband to share his thoughts on what fatherhood means to him and his experiences as a dad.
This is what he said:
“There are four days that are the most important to me. When I married Deb, when my daughters were born, and when my grandson was born.
Being with my wife during childbirth was a miraculous event. And holding my babies for the first time filled me with such a deep feeling of love that I’ve never known before. I remember feeling these amazing little beings were dependent on me, and I promised to be the best dad that I could be. I was so happy but also so scared.
Watching them during all stages of their life, from crawling, walking, and going off to college, has been rewarding. And it was bittersweet when they moved to their first apartment. It’s been a joy to watch them spread their wings. The time has passed so fast, and I have a lot of great memories and making more every day. Now, I’m fortunate to have a grandson, and he calls me “Happy”. And I’m proud to be his “Happy”. He fills me with his curiosity and wonder and reminds me that having young kids requires a lot of energy.
My perspective on fatherhood is giving your children guidance to be self-sufficient and confident. And always be there for support and encouragement when they need it. My wish is for them to be happy and successful on their terms. What I’ve learned is, what is important to me, may not be important to them. So, giving them patience and understanding as they go along their journey of life is the way I support them. My daughters have grown up to be beautiful women and I’m very proud of them both for their accomplishments.”
Sadly, not all children have an involved father or one that lives with them. So, having a positive role model or mentor is so important. Grandfathers, uncles, and coaches can fill those shoes. Children with an involved role model are confident and feel more secure. They also are better problem solvers and are more successful in school.
“I want to congratulate all the men out there who are working diligently to be good fathers whether they are stepfathers, or biological fathers or just spiritual fathers.” – T. D. Jakes
Join me in celebrating the fathers and role models for their love and dedication in teaching our youth. We need everyone to make a difference in a child’s life. It takes a village! A big thank you to my husband for being a loving and supportive father to our daughters and an understanding and fun “Happy” to our grandson. Happy Father’s Day!
Freedom is possible!
Love,
Deb