I get sent a daily email from All Pro Dad, and the one I got today struck a bit of a chord with me. Below is the entire message I got. I particularly liked the first point. I hope it reminds dads and dads to be of the wonderful responsibility that Fatherhood is, oh, and if you want a little bit of daily encouragement I encourage you to sign up for the emails.
I received the following e-mail from Rich, an expectant father: “My wife and I are 2 months pregnant. I've got all of these emotions / concerns/ thoughts/ plans/ excitement/ insecurity. Please share some thoughts with me.”
Sure thing Rich. Here they are:1. You are a blessed man.
2. Your life as you know it is over. A new adventure begins. Hang on for the joyride.
3. Being a father/husband is hard work, but will be worth it.
4. Don’t long for past times of freedom. Embrace the privileges of today and hopes of tomorrow.
5. You won’t be a perfect father. Don’t expect it. Just be prepared to say you’re sorry.
6. Fight for time with your child. Don’t be bullied by your career.7. Don’t get caught up in every possibility of what might go wrong with your child physically and emotionally. The child is God’s. You are a caretaker and role model. Just do your best.
8. When nights are sleepless, remind yourself it will get better.
9. Go above and beyond to support your wife. Focus on her needs first.
10. Slather this baby in hugs and kisses. Let him/her never know of a time when Daddy did not show them love.
Filed under: Fatherhood, Uncategorized
These should all be labeled Stages of Fatherhood. The only problem with that idea is that I bounce between them all day.
Absolutely. It’s a wild ride and one that we can only ever do by the grace of God. Because when we fail, He’s there to ever so gently guide us and gives us the courage to continue. And for that, our children will forever be grateful - no matter what stage we are in, at what point of the day.
Thanks for reading and for your comment.