A Father's Day Story

A Father’s Day StoryI recently read an opinion essay arguing the diminishing role of fathers in our society.  In it, the author stated the importance of fatherhood was being squeezed in significance by the empowerment of radical feminism, media stereotypes of pathetic roles for men, and scientific advances in fertility treatment that negate the need for a man to show up in creating a child.Here is my response.Several years ago, a young family was taking a hike along the banks of a wide rippling stream.  A father bent down to the river’s edge pointing out the tadpoles, the algae, and the rocks to his young and curious children.  The water turned white as it bubbled over the boulder-sized rocks.  Vast discovery awaited.“Dad, look at this!”“Dad, did you see that rainbow fish?”“Dad, what kind of tree is that?”Immersed in the experience of wonder, this Dad provided the lens through which the young children discovered the world.  Lessons were taught about how to tell a tree by its bark.  Questions were answered about where water comes from.  Respect was instilled for the symphony of nature and the poetic existence of the elements of the earth.As the amateur expedition team made its way along the water’s edge, the two young boys began skipping rocks downstream.  In brotherly competition, their enthusiasm and desire to trump the other led to a misfire leaving their little sister stunned in pain.  She was hit by a rock, and she collapsed in tears.The father picked up his little girl and enveloped her in his grand and protective arms.  He sat on a rock rocking her back and forth allowing tears to flow but also reassuring that all would be well.  He rested his cheek against her forehead, the brush of his tender kisses to calm the pained creases of her angel like forehead.  His calloused fingers wiped away her tears.

“It’s ok,” he repeated. “You’re going to be ok.”

He rocked her back and forth in rhythmic fashion allowing the pain to subside and flow like the waters of the stream.The moment was allowed to remain.Soon enough, the little girl was back on her feet frolicking with her brothers who were reminded to watch what they were doing. His loving grasp was a sure thing as she reached for her father’s hand. As she gained footing, her need for his constancy lessened. Laughter and wonder could be heard again. They were, after all, on a discovery walk.A father’s presence is immeasurable. The possibilities to provide security, reassurance, and trust are infinite even within the smallest of life stories. For all those men who provide their children the safety net of love, guidance and support, this day is for you. The continuum of a father’s role stretches from gentle to firm, soft to stern, and pleasant to tough, requiring him to show up for his children in ways they need, which we all know change and grow.In this very noisy world of opinion, the importance of being a dad can be found in the metaphors of every day. In the space of growing into the best version of one’s self, I argue never to underestimate the presence of a fine dad.To all dads, you have the love and respect of all who observe your grace filled ways. Grateful tears flow from all who see you, even when you don’t know it.Happy Father’s Day.