HAPPY FATHERS DAY - A Father’s Day message from Dr. Paul

This Father’s Day, my own father, now 91, will attend his first Father’s Day celebration with his kids ever!

Not only is this his first, but it is my son’s first. With his newborn baby boy, we will have four generations and about 50 family members together under one roof.

​What is there to celebrate?

Those of us fortunate to have had dads who were loving, caring role models who were involved in our lives have much to be thankful for. That is only sometimes the case. I think of fathers as strong, loving, kind, protective, forward-thinking, and always having their children’s best interests at heart. My dad was an amazing problem solver. There was almost nothing he couldn’t find a solution for, and often it meant thinking outside the box, as he would say.

Thank you, Dad, for passing on so many wonderful traits. I was learning by example. You showed me how to be a strong man, how to stand for principles, and to stand for the truth, even when it was dangerous or inconvenient to do so. As you have grown older, I see you more thoughtful, gentle, compassionate, and able to listen so beautifully.

As I have gotten older, I realize how important the father’s role is to be there for my children and grandchildren. For much of my adult life as a father, I was overly focused on providing food and shelter and did not nurture the heart and soul of my children. I’m sad for the time I’ve lost, but now I know, it’s never too late to be nourishing and loving even as they become adults.

When we are hurting, regardless of age, we need compassion and companionship most. Thank you to all in our world who have shown us love and compassion and sat with us when we were hurting.

Happy Father’s Day to all the dads out there who are striving to be there for their children.

If you haven’t had a nurturing father relationship in your life, I encourage you to find that love, support, and nurture in the adult(s) who come into your world. We can all be that person for someone else.

Photo by Derek Thomson on Unsplash

Thank you to all the moms, aunts, uncles, grandparents, and friends who also fulfill that role.

Dr. Paul