Dads, You Matter!

Did you know Father’s Day spending in the US typically runs 40 percent less than Mother’s Day spending?

That could suggest that dads are less important to kids than moms. But that just isn’t true.

Young, old, or in between—dads, you matter!

Last month I flew to Seattle to celebrate my dad’s 90th birthday! With family and friends, we celebrated and paid tribute to the quiet but strong man we call Dad or Grandpa or Uncle Jim or Brother.

From the backyard barbeque on Friday night to the stretch limo ride to Ray’s Boathouse on Puget Sound on Saturday, we all had a fabulous time!

FridayCakeDadEarlier, in the airport and on our flight, I noticed younger dads equipped with diaper bags, pushing strollers, keeping little ones calm and happy.

One sweet dad across the aisle from me patiently pulled toys and books out of his toddler’s backpack and later, when it was nap time, wrapped his son in a blanket, held him close, and rocked him a bit until he fell asleep.

It’s wonderful to see dads connected with their kids like that. But not surprising anymore—I see my own two sons-in-law do this superbly too.

Children with an involved, caring father are likely to be more confident, emotionally secure, and have better social connections as they grow older. They do better in school, an effect that extends even into the teen and young-adult years.

And if dad isn’t there? Strong relationships with other adult male relatives and friends greatly help to fill his important role. God’s heart for the fatherless is clear early on in the Bible, when his law for the Israelites included these words: “You shall not mistreat any widow or fatherless child” (Exodus 22:22). And the psalmist wrote, “Father of the fatherless and protector of widows is God in his holy habitation” (Psalm 68:5)

So as Father’s Day nears, here’s to dads! You matter. A lot!

DadMe
– Diane

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