Celebrate fathers in your life Sunday
Research abounds on how important a fatherly presence is to the growth and development of children and to their overall wellbeing. Time and again, the influence of a father or father-figure has been pinpointed as a crucial factor in a safe and secure home life and a child’s ability to have a healthy, wholesome upbringing.
Though the influence of mothers is not and cannot be ignored, it is very fitting that we set aside a special time to celebrate fathers – and father-like mentors – in our lives. These are the men who are always there to listen, to guide, to correct, to encourage, to comfort, to teach and to support.
According to History.com, Father’s Day was first celebrated in the United States more than 110 years ago – June 19, 1910, in the state of Washington. It was not until 1972, however, that the day honoring fathers became a nationwide holiday in the United States, thanks to a proclamation from then-president Richard Nixon.
This Sunday is Father’s Day. It’s a day when we remember that sharing time with our fathers and reflecting on how much they have done for us in our lives is crucially important.
For many of us, our first word – and our own children’s first word – was Dada. Of course, there’s the age-old debate as to whether they’re calling Daddy’s name or just speaking the easiest syllable, but let’s give Dad the win on this one.
As their children grow, the Dadas of the world help shape so many important moments. Their influence is felt as they cheer on their young athletes; attend opening nights of ballet recitals and piano concerts and art exhibits; teach crucial lessons from how to tie a tie, to how to drive, to how to open a bank account; share their wisdom and their humor; in essence, as they show their children how to find their way in the world.
We want to salute the fathers of Franklin County who are having such an impact on our community by raising the children who will one day be its leaders.
Not every child is fortunate to have Dad in his or her life. Luckily, it’s not just biological fathers who can be that shoulder to lean on – that hand to hold – that role model that we all need. Those who don’t have a great dad around might look to a loving grandfather, uncle, big brother, coach, teacher, neighbor or church member to fill that role in their lives.
Take time this Sunday, or any day, to tell the father or father-figure in your life what he means to you. It’s so easy to let time go by without ever giving voice to the appreciation you have, but we’re sure any father-figure would be glad to hear the words.
