A Word About Dads
A Word about Dads
by Dr. Harold Duncan
I’m “bullish” on today’s dads. I think, more than ever before, there are more dads (younger and older) who are more serious and more committed to that role than has ever been the case.
Don’t misunderstand. Excellent dads have existed since the beginning of humankind. Today, however, we know more than ever before the essential role that dads play in the lives of their children, their families, their churches and their communities.
Today, there are more available resources (classes, books, videos, counseling, etc.) than ever to help dads develop the skills necessary to connect with (and stay connected with) their children–to develop the kind of healthy relationship that will last a lifetime. And there are more dads than ever who are eager to avail themselves of those resources.
Yes, I’m very optimistic about “dad-hood” in our culture!
To that point, I want to share with you from a blog by Jim Martin (http://www.godhungry.org/) on qualities of a good dad. Enjoy and have a great Father’s Day.
1. A good daddy is consistent. Children get confused when a certain behavior causes dad to laugh one moment only to cause him to become angry thirty minutes later.
2. A good daddy models good character. Teaching a child is important. Good character that is modeled is powerful. However, bad character on display can make a lasting impression as well.
3. A good daddy teaches his children by his example. Some fathers do far too much telling and too little showing. A mountain of good words does not compensate for a regular bad example. However, when a father models integrity, respect, and kindness before his children, they are blessed.
4. A good daddy allows his children the opportunity to see his faith. For example, when you are faced with a decision, it can be a real teachable moment for that son or daughter to hear you explain why you made the decision you did and how that decision flowed out of your faith.
5. A good daddy understands that “fussing” at a child, naming calling, or threatening is not discipline. Such behaviors may be more about a father’s own frustration and anger than serious, intentional discipline.
6. A good daddy counts the cost. One can “pay now” or ” pay later.” It is so easy to ignore behavior that needs to be dealt with. After all, a dad might work hard all day and just not want to deal with a negative behavior. Yet, that doesn’t make the situation go away or disappear.
8. A good daddy understands that reality is based on history not promises. In other words, my history and past behavior with my children tells them more than any promise I might make.
9. A good daddy models an unselfish spirit. He looks out for the interests and needs of his spouse and his children. This really hit me when my children were in middle school and high school. Being a daddy took time and energy. There were times when I would come home from work and want to do nothing but watch a basketball game on television. Yet, one would need help with homework or want to talk about her day. I had to deal with my own desire to do what I wanted to do.
10. A good daddy is a grown up. Some dads may be tempted to simply be a friend or a pal to their children. This one took me some time to learn. At times, I would be tempted to speak immaturely or handle a situation in an immature way. I remember thinking at times, “Is this really the kind of example that you want to set before your girls?”
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