How has dad or another male role model positively impacted your life?
This week we celebrate dads or the important male role models in our lives. As a dad, and now a grandpa, I can’t imagine a more important or fulfilling role to have. Being a dad is the greatest part we play and, in my opinion, the most important one. Dads offer wisdom and leadership in many ways and usually do it in a fun and comical way. Not everyone is lucky to have a dad, but they may have another father-figure that impacts their life. Here are some brief examples of dad-wisdom for our kids.
I can’t pinpoint the time in my life when my dad gave me the best advice. He always said that I should never believe I’m more important than anyone else. Additionally, I should never allow someone to think they are better than me either. The message here is that we should be humble but never allow people to push us around. We hope our kids know the value they bring to the world. We hope to raise them to be great adults. They will experience people who wish to impose their will or beliefs onto them. Strong kids will understand they have the power to live their life to the fullest and not let others overshadow or belittle them.
Dad’s work ethic was second to none. He was an electrical contractor, and I worked with him for many years. It was made very clear from the beginning that I needed to work hard and never be lazy. One instance that stands out in my mind, was when I was digging a trench to bury a wire. The rocky terrain made it very difficult. I had worked all day and at quitting time dad said, “So, what do you think about college?” He showed me how to work and push myself while at the same time guiding me to a better life that started with furthering my education.
We only have so much time with our children. We hope to have great experiences with them and instill values and learning opportunities that help them develop into great people. We make mistakes. No one is a perfect parent, but I hope my example helps each of my children. I hope my kids see the continuous drive for improvement and learning that I have done throughout my life. I hope they see the no surrender attitude within me and they too, take on that same attitude.
We must always show our children we love them. Dads are stereotypically known to be tough ones. Dad can be loving too, so hug and kiss your kids often and share how much you love them every day. We also show them a better way of life by respecting and loving their mother. Yes, we should do the basic things by providing for their needs. Sometimes we show them love by not giving them everything they want. This can be hard on them, and they may not understand why. This is what some may call tough love. This is dad’s way of helping children grow up and face the difficulty road of life. It is also the most difficult part of being a dad, by not helping their children with everything.
Do you see your value in the world, and do you stand up for yourself?
What legacy has your dad or other male role model shown you?
What examples are you leaving for your loved ones?
How are you showing love to your children?
My dad is still around and I’m thankful for the man he made me. He was always present in my life and offered many lessons that I never noticed as a kid. I hope my own children pay attention to lessons I offer and know how much I love them. Take a moment this week to share with your dad or father-figure how they positively impacted your life. Thanks for checking in and have a great week.
Steven C. Bucks- Leading Conversations
~Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member~
