As Father's Day approaches, we are each given an opportunity to take a step back and look at our lives and see who serves the father's role. Who has been that special person in our life that has consistently been there for us?
We can ponder the role of a father. It surely differs among families and cultures, but the basics seem to remain the same. Being the male figure for your children, taking care of responsibilities and doing what you know to be right are characteristics we should see among all fathers. Where we see men carrying out their responsibilities we should praise them for it.
So many people in our lives can fill the role of a father, even if we already have a father in the literal sense. Even if we are fortunate enough to have a biological father involved in our lives, there are often many other men who serve that role in figurative ways. Coaches, neighbors, clergy, teachers and especially other family members can all be a part of our lives in a fatherly way. These are all people who deserve to be recognized on Father's Day for what they have meant to us but sadly few of them will get that recognition they deserve.
The role of being a father truly is so large and so all encompassing that it seems impossible for one man to accomplish all of the tasks that a father should. It would seem that we as a society depend on good and loving people to play a role in areas where they can, and be a father in some small way to all in need of guidance.
Look closely at your own life and identify the father figures. Thank them. Appreciate them. Give them the gift of recognition. It usually doesn't take much - a phone call, a card, an e-mail or a visit all work. Anything we can do to say "thank you" could make such a big difference.
Everyone has at least one day a year to be the center of attention. This of course would be their birthday. But for those people who do so much more to be a good mentor and role model, specifically mothers and fathers, they get one extra day. This is their moment to shine. This is their moment to be seen as the wonderful people that so many of them are.
Remember the man who first taught you how to fish. Remember the guy who taught you how to drive. Show the man who instructed you on the finer points of life how much you appreciate him. This may not be just one man, but all together these men are fathers just the same.
I am thinking of some special men in my life who have served that role for me. Of course, No. 1 would be my dad. He has loved me consistently every day of my life and is a rock for me. I depend on him for so much. I am so lucky to have him in my life. There are other father figures in my life as well, including one very special treasure of a man who lives right across the street. He is a 90-year-old gentleman, and I hope everyone has someone in their life like him.
So make sure that on Sunday, you tell the fathers in your life " thank you." Their contributions are a large part of who you are and this is their day to shine.
Write to Alex at apcarroll@bsu.edu
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
