What Father's Day means to me
This is my 18th Father's Day (Nigel is 18) and it only gets more meaningful as time passes.
The girls made me a "chocolate mug cake" complete with a sugar heart on top and also gave me a card and a gift (insulated coffee flask). The card that Shannon wrote was thoughtful and funny - just the way I think all cards should be! There's even a dash of sarcasm referring to a song I've been playing on Spotify. 😂
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| I'm still wondering how they made that tasty chocolate cake in the mug! |
What does Father's Day mean to me?
I used to wake up each morning thinking - wow, how did I end up having 3 little people dependent on me? All of a sudden, I am responsible for the lives, wellbeing and future of some smaller humans - isn't that a burden, a load that weighs me down in life? But it is actually a privilege, literally a God-given gift and an honour to be chosen to raise these young ones under our (together with Celest) charge.
A life for others is a life worth living
A life of service is a meaningful one - regardless if it's at work, in the community or at home. If all you're living for is yourself, you'd constantly be searching for that something extra, and the answer is for others. And what better calling can there be than one of parenting and raising upright, honest and loving children.
Responsibility is a calling
2009 picture of us going on a journey together!
Regardless of your position at your workplace, we all have a responsibility to someone. We all can't be CEOs and managers, but we can be there for those we care about, in person, in deed, in word. It doesn't take lots of money or even hours of time, but being present and supportive is in your attitude and willingness to participate and be involved.
Being a good father
It is tough being a good father, yet easy at the same time. There is no scoreboard, rulebook or even KPI to measure your performance. You can compare - there are some fantastic dads out there, and some which could be better. So I try to do what I can, just like some of the other fathers I know in the dads' groups I'm part of. End of the day, our kids need our attention and time - and remember, the day will come when the tables will turn and we will be trying to get theirs.
Happy Father's Day everyone!