As we have just celebrated Fathers Day, I was compelled to send out a message to those who may struggle with their father figure in varying ways. You know you can't exist in the world without leaving pieces of you behind. And your Fathers are great parts of your existence. From Dad's old car, to his favourite pipe, or mug. Old suits, or written words from Diaries kept of the past. Even his scent...
The things he did or didnt do, the things he said or forgot to say. The shedding of memories both good or not so good. Some are scars set deep. Sometimes you grieve for the father you wish you had had, or find yourself envious of the bonds of another's father. As you move from boy to man to father, you make promises to be a better father than your own, and then condemn yourself if you think you have failed in some way. Yet of all those fathers both present or past there is at least one immensely significant gift your father gave. That is his part in the creation of your incredible life. Find appreciation and gratitude in that. Find a way to be thankful, proud and while you may not feel you cannot measure up to or fill his shoes you can for a moment walk in his shoes...in compassion and love. I recall the Berenstain Bears Books- a wonderful series of Pa Bear attempting to teach his cubs how to live well in the woods, yet inevitably managing to fail each lesson, by teaching them what not to do. If that be your life lesson with your father figure or parent , remember to thank him too. As a Dad, always put love 1st, do your best at giving your best, because that is all any father can do. Personally my Dad was a Pa Bear..and for that I'm thankful. If you are a Dad now, remember that even if you think you get it wrong, you will master getting to do it better next time.
MAREE WEEKLY QUOTE: I believe that what we become depends on what our fathers teach us at odd moments when they aren’t trying to teach us. We are formed by little scraps of wisdom.” — Umberto Eco Cheers to all Dads.
Comments