Being a Dad

One of the most difficult yet most rewarding roles a man can take is to be a father. When I first found out that I was going to be a father, I cannot describe the excitement and joy that I experienced. The moment he was born, I wanted to be the best dad that I could for him. However, as he got older, I felt like I was reminded of how much I lacked as a role model for him. He and I were two very different people. Yet, my love for him was unique, and my desire to protect him still remained. We had two more sons, and I discovered that my love for them was distinct, but still deep.

I had very little experience with team sports, and I wasn’t very athletic. So I couldn’t help my sons develop very much in those areas. I had to rely on their coaches to do that for me, which could be humbling to say the least. But I knew that I could offer them love and support, so that’s what I did. For a long time, I had a “special night” with each of my sons. For one night, I would take them out to do something they would like, spending time with them and just connecting with them as best I could. It usually involved food, so that part was easy and consistent with each boy. However, the time I spent with them was very different. My oldest son was content with just having ice cream and chatting about sports. My middle son wanted to talk about everything possible. My youngest son was happy just being wherever we were.

No matter what kind of father you believe yourself to be, I think the thing I’ve learned is that it takes very little to connect with your children. Find something they enjoy, and do that with them. We have a great opportunity to develop our sons and daughters into adults who are physically, emotionally, and spiritually healthy. Hopefully, we can turn them into role models for their children as well. There is something very powerful in being a dad, but I believe we need to use that responsibility wisely.