This week I've been seeing a trend in social media regarding Father's Day and I have to say I'm proud of this seemingly new realization in our society...Dad's are awesome, fully competent, loving parents!
It feels as if, in the past, our culture had reduced the role of 'father,' down to being someone who solely functioned as a breadwinner and disciplinarian, not so much as a capable, involved, nurturing parent.
But, there seems to have been a shift in our perceptions and expectations and 'father' is now being recognized as not just a provider of money but a provider of care and love and protection.
From the seat I'm sitting in, I have watched Owen do it all. He's changed thousands of diapers, logged in countless hours of middle of the night cuddles whether it be over newborn fussiness, a scared toddler, a sick little guy, you name it...he's sacrificed his sleep for his boys. He does bath times and bed times, has read the same stories 5,000 times, reads the Bible, says prayers, kisses owies, builds forts, plays ball, tackles, tickles, all of it. He does it all. My boys are the luckiest.
And I see it in my friend's husbands and the guys in my family. Whether they have their own kids or are being part of the village raising our kids, I see the role they are playing. Doing all the things. Using their gifts and talents to empower their kids and/or mine. Engaging in the role of care-taker-- one who takes care.
I am grateful to be surrounded by men who are present, life-giving dads because these are the dad's whose influence changes families, which changes communities, which changes nations. We are sitting in the midst of world changers when we see a dad having a tea party with his daughter or teaching his son how to fish.
So, to the man who I get to do this life with, if I haven't told you enough, I don't know how I would survive without you. If I could choose all over again, I would choose you every single time. The way you love our babies is my favorite thing about you--full of grace, wisdom, passion, compassion, joy, humor, adventure, all of it. You've been all in since day one and I thank you.
And to all the men who are giving your children and families everything you've got--you are noticed and appreciated. The power that resides in the simple things you do will push boundaries and move mountains for generations to come.
Today, and everyday,
we celebrate you.
