Do you think about what your children will become when they grow up? Perhaps, one of them will become an engineer, building skyscrapers and bridges. And another will become an educator, nurturing young lives and expanding their horizons. Have you ever thought about what kind of husband and father he will become one day?
The first sentence of the first chapter of Lewis Yablonsky’s book, “Fathers and Sons,” states that becoming a father is “the most important role a man can play in his lifetime.” Children who have fathers in their lives are much less likely to drop out of school, abuse drugs, commit crimes, or end up in jail. In addition, children of authoritative fathers perform better emotionally, academically, socially, and behaviourally. In short, good fathers increase the likelihood that their children will lead better lives as adults.
Yablonsky also believes that fatherhood is a father’s “link with the future.” Jobs come and go. Wealth is made and lost. However, fatherhood can help you create a lasting legacy. Dads, if fatherhood is the most important role a man can play, what are you doing to prepare your son for this role?
By Parcsen Loke, Family Life Coach, Centre for Fathering. If you wish to contact Parcsen, please make an appointment at: calendly.com/iamparcsen
Food for Thought: Work holds a lot of meaning to men. It is a source of purpose, challenge, reward, and recognition. What meaning does fatherhood hold for you?