June 19, 2022
Good morning my friends. I hope you are doing well and enjoying life. Happy Father’s Day to all the incredible Dads around the world! A Dad is an integral part of the family. He has the ability to share a unique perspective on life and everything that goes with it. Moms are wonderful too, obviously; but each parent has role to fulfill in the development of their children. Kids need both parents in their lives to help them learn, grow and become successful adults. Even if parents’ divorce, being there for your child is still your first priority.
I know this for a fact, because I was divorced when our daughter was young. We set aside our personal differences, realizing she was the most important part of us both. We worked together to ensure we were “parenting” with the same objectives in mind; especially her well-being. She’s our pride and joy. Kids need their Dad, now more than ever. Being a great father isn’t about giving gifts, cash or stuff. Your gift of time is the most important and precious commodity you can share with your child. Spending quality time with our kids yields amazing adventures and dialogue. Communication and conversations lead to growth and development. Give your children your undivided attention and love. Share knowledge, education and yourself daily; it’s the key to their success. Don’t be selfish, egotistical or closed minded; when it comes to how you relate to your children, spouse or parenting. Be an adult; take responsibility for your actions and do what’s best for your children. I’ve seen parents ruin their children by using them as pawns against one another in their egotistical battles of control and dominance. The innocent children are the ones who suffer during these turbulent times. It can ultimately scare them for life. If being there and available for every step of your child’s life isn’t your mindset as a parent, then you may just be part of the problem.
Father’s Day brings me great joy, along with some sadness. My Dad passed away a little over eight years ago. A day hasn’t gone by, since his death, that I don’t talk to him, have him in my thoughts or miss him. He was an incredible man and father. I’m grateful I had a fabulous Dad to show me the path to manhood. I wasn’t sure what kind of a “dad” I’d become. I learned, grew and matured along the way. I hope I turned out okay. Sharing time with my daughter is one of the most important parts of my life. Often times, it’s the simple things that make the greatest impact and create the most fun memories. I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge during my 30+ years of “Dad” experience. It’s crazy thinking my little girl, isn’t a little girl anymore. She’s grown and matured into an amazing young woman. I’m very proud of her; for so many reasons. She is intelligent, amazing, beautiful and everything anyone (especially her dad) could wish for in a daughter; plus, lots more. Her fabulous, fun and witty personality is an endearing quality all hers. She continues to excel and develop her skills and charm, while building a fantastic life of her own. It’s been a learning experience, for us both, from birth to now. I continue to do my best, while I follow the lead of my Dad. He taught me many things. His love, generosity and kindness were the traits that helped mold me as a father. I always enjoyed watching him interact with my daughter and his grandkids. Every time I’d tell him I was bringing my daughter to visit, he would always make her barbeque ribs (her favorite). He enjoyed every moment of our visits. Like him, I love being a Dad!
It’s taken me many years, of on the job experience, to build my expertise and knowledge base of parenting. Being a great dad includes many traits and characteristics. It’s not just about the parenting skills; although they definitely help. As a dad, refine your ability to communicate, render discipline, give direction and share wisdom. Dads, this is your opportunity to fill your children with love and happiness. Teach them respect, honesty and how to dream. Educate your kids with truth and strength. Set rules or guidelines to assist them in developing good habits that will carry them through life. Be their inspiration, direction and truth to discover their passions of life. Encourage them to work hard, while they reach for their stars. Remember that the simplest moments can create the greatest memories. My Dad loved waffles and ice cream. I recall some amazing summer nights, having him make my sister and I waffles; allowing us to put as much ice cream on them as we wanted. I loved going to baseball games with him too! It was our get-a-way. Those memories carried me over to my daughter. I loved played sports and taking her to baseball games. One of her favorite breakfasts she always wanted me to make (and she still asks for now) is waffles with strawberries and whip cream. These are among my most favorite and cherished memories that I will love forever.
Being a great dad is also about maintaining my own health and physical well-being. Longevity it the key to my success. The longer I live, the more time I’ll have on this earth to share the wisdom of life with my daughter. Mental, spiritual and physical health are just the beginning. What I put into my body; via thoughts, words, actions and actual food or drink; all have an influence on my length of time on this planet. These things also influence my behavior. The better I care for myself; regarding how I perceive life, what I eat and how I fuel my body, all play an important role in my health. Exercise and physical activity, will only take me so far. These need to be combined with healthy foods. Being spiritual helps keep me grounded and close to God. Meditation allows my mind to relax and soothes my soul. Gratitude and kindness reflect my spirit. My intention is to be healthier and happier every day. I plan to enjoy each sunrise and the opportunity to live many more years.
I believe this quote by Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt; 26th president of the United States, is very fitting today. “We do not admire the man of timid peace. We admire the man who embodies victorious effort, the man who never wrongs his neighbor, who is prompt to help a friend, but who has those virile qualities necessary to win in the stern strife of actual life.”
Today, more than ever, we need strong new leaders to make decisions that will bring positive change. We need men (dads, uncles, brothers and friends), who can bring inspiration, guidance and support; while lifting up everyone around them. Men who share empowerment, vision and energy; and are capable to boost others into greater and more vital roles; are an amazing asset. Be the change you want to see in the world; and I’ll be there with you. Happy Father’s Day Dads! Follow your dreams. They know the way.
Please tune in and join me again next Sunday for more! The puzzle of life is always changing. Change can lead to amazing opportunities. Together, let’s be healthy and strong; mentally, physically and spiritually!
Thanks for your love and support! Embrace Life! Be sure to get outside and enjoy nature!
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