When my son was born a year ago, my mom couldn’t come to help like she usually does (she had recently undergone knee replacement surgery). Instead, my dad came to lend a hand. He played games with the older children, did dishes faithfully, and vacuumed.
Late one morning I caught him on the back porch cleaning the vacuum filter with a toothpick and tweezers. This simple act of service – doing this thing he knew I would never have time to do in the next several months – brought tears to my eyes. That’s my dad. Forever helpful, forever compassionate.
Is it any wonder I feel extra safe and extra loved when my dad comes to visit? No one can ever take the place of a good dad.
Fathers are different than mothers. That’s the way it’s supposed to be. Among other things, they are great at wrestling, giving horsey rides, and teaching kids on a physical level. Moms are usually better at nurturing and teaching on an emotional level. The actions and teaching styles displayed by both parents are important in the healthy development of children.
Why do we belittle the role of fathers and downplay their importance? Why do we let Hollywood
All I need to do is look at the expression on my daughter’s face when her daddy tells her she looks pretty in her new dress, or performed well in a recital, or needs to do better at cleaning her room. All I need to do is have my husband be away for an entire day to know how much we need him.
Fathers, we love you. Please spend time with us. Please be good to us. The truth is: we need you desperately.
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