One of the things that struck me when I read the “10 Ways to be an All Pro Dad” was number 10 which states to “Realize that You’re a Father Forever”. As we go through the phases of childhood with all three of our children, I find myself often looking ahead and hoping we “get through this phase soon”. The reality of that statement is that the phases change, but my role as a Dad never ends. The phases, challenges, changes, wisdom and guidance continue on.
Dad’s, our role is huge. The investment is well worth the time. As we look ahead to the official kick off of “All Pro Dad” this Saturday, I was reminded of this story I once heard about the importance of our role.
A young boy and his father sat in the doctors office, the doctor motioned to the father to come out in the hall with him. As they stood in the hallway, the doctor delivered the news that this mans young son had an terminal illness which would soon take his life. The father told the doctor that he would like to be the one to tell his son the news. The doctor agreed and the father and son went home.
As they stood in the backyard, the father explained what the doctor had told him and how sorry he was. The son listened to the news, paused, then walked a few yards away for some time alone. When he returned to his father, he had a smile on his face. The father asked why he was smiling and if he was going to be alright. To which the son replied:
“While I was alone, I was talking with God. I was thinking about heaven and what that would be like. Then I thought of Jesus and how I will one day be with him. I realized that, if he is anything like you, I know I will be alright”.
Good stuff. We often do underestimate our role as “Dad.” I guess it is because so much of the visible nuture is done by moms in many families. Yet, the “behind the scenes” support, encouragement, time and even visible nurturing that we do as dads is indeed an important part of growing kids.
And our role as Dad has been maligned and minimized these past 30 years.
I don’t need to list them here. Just think about it.
Thanks, Aaron.
Oh, man! I’m in tears now!!
Dude……
Wow – what a story. Every father should strive to be loved like that by his children. I can only hope to be that good of a dad.