On Fatherhood

As I've been reading The Father Connection, appreciation for my Dad has grown deeper still. One of the studies cited in the book speaks of how crucial the connection is between father and child. The author makes clear that this high importance does not negate the importance of and need for moms. What it indicates is that when mom was there being a good mom, she cannot compensate enough for the absence of the father. Realistically, there are more moms doing a good job of being a mom than there are dads doing their fathering well.

My Mom is unbelievably outstanding and I've always been tremendously blessed to have a phenomenal mom who does whatever it takes to be not just a good mom, but a great one. As great as mom has been, I still could have ended up going down the wrong road in life. I'm that kid...the one who needed not only a great mom, but a good dad as well. One who was invested in my life and who gave me attention, love and care.

I've always believed that even if Dad had not been there, my sister Tracey would have turned out just as great as she has, by the influence of Mom alone. She always was stronger emotionally than me. My suspicion has been that without my Dad being involved, without him being present and caring, I wouldn't have turned out well at all. I don't even want to think about what I'd be like if I hadn't had the love and care of either parent.

My parents raised me very well. They've both done a great job. Mom sacrificed more in the day-to-day of caring for every need. She is a special gift; a treasure. She has a special place that no one else can take...she is Mom. Dad, my Dad, is a special gift as well; one that seems to be rare as I've watched friends' dads over the years.

In honor of Father's Day (although a bit late), I want to say thank you, Dad, for being the father I've always needed. I love you!! 

Happy Father's Day!!

Dad's gift for Father's Day (If you knew him, you'd know this was the best gift
I could give him :)