Sunday is Father’s Day. There will be barbecues and an uptick in necktie and tool sales this week. Unfortunately, those things, while nice, aren’t the most essential things for Dad. Our country has a severe Dad problem, impacting every aspect of our Nation. What I’m fixing to say isn’t intended to hurt feelings, but accountability starts the change process.
Dads provide, protect, lead, and set the example. That’s not saying Moms don’t, only that these are the Father’s purpose, and that is their expression of love. Fathers cannot shirk these responsibilities, yet we have many who do. I won’t go into all the studies supporting my assertion that boys become better men when Dad is at home. Those boys will love and respect their wives like Dad loves and respects Mom. This point is also valid about daughters; they will choose men like their fathers. Dr. Meg Meeker, MD, wrote a book, “Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters,” in which she, as a general practitioner, showed how her girl patients that had strong and involved Dads grew to be successful, happy women. I read this book when my daughter was 12 years old, and it provided some great facts to support what I was doing as I emulated my Dad and my brothers. I suggest you read it even if you don’t father girls.
I’ve often said that I became a better leader when I became a father. Being a good Dad means being a good man first. That starts with love, not squishy soft love, but unconditional love, agape in Greek, for your wife and family. The love that makes you hold your kid accountable for bad behavior and you get up in the morning to exercise so you can keep up with them on the playground. Your kids want you to be their superhero, and they will forgive you when you aren’t if they know you are trying. I still can’t do a handstand or properly pass a soccer ball, but I spent many hours on the playground and goaltending to help my gymnast and soccer player develop their skills.
Men are hardwired for action and problem-solving, so use those innate drives to lead your kids. Set the example in conduct and effort. If you’re out of shape physically, spiritually, professionally, or emotionally, show them how a real Dad takes charge of his life by eating right, getting in the gym, praying with them, taking a class, or improving a skill, and hugging and respecting Mom. They are watching and learning.
Our Nation needs leaders, men and women of consequence, willing to do the hard work that keeps us free and prosperous. Those men and women need strong Dads to set the example, lead, and guide them in their development.
If you’re on track, congratulations, stay the course. If you’re not, start today, and on Father’s Day, you can celebrate your new commitment to being a great Dad! Call your Dad; he wants to know you’re ok and hear your voice.
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https://connallyconsulting.com/contact Remember, “all things are possible through prayer and heavy deadlifts.”™
