To the dad's out there who have done their best to raise their children in wisdom and love, who have stuck in there through all the shitstorms of life, who have seen failure and success in their own lives and in the lives of their children but who have never given up... words can't express the gratitude I have for you. There are too few dads like you- be proud of the dad you have been and never stop becoming a better dad.
To the dad's out there who have little or no contact with their kids, whether as a consequence of their behaviors, their kids' choices or whatever else... don't give up on being a part of their lives, and love them with everything you've got every chance you get.
To the dad's who have abandoned their kids... go home, call, write, be a dad- it's never too late.
To all those who have dads that are in their life and have done their best... be thankful and tell your dad how much he means to you. No dad is perfect, and if he is still in your life and is trying to raise you in wisdom and love, you are blessed- there are soooooo many kids out there without a dad.
To all those who have dads that are doing their best to get back in your life... be patient and gracious- things are almost always more complex than they might seem. He wouldn't be trying if he didn't love you deeply.
To all those who have been abandoned by their dad... forgive- not for their sake, but for your own. Acknowledge that it sucks and grieve the void he left in your life. Look for other men that can be father-like figures in your life.
To all those who have lost their dad... be grateful for what he gave you and let go of the ways he hurt you. Don't be afraid to grieve. Embrace the other people in your life that love you and care about you.
To those who have lost their dad to suicide... I cannot imagine what a day like today would be like for you. Forgive him and forgive yourself, and get help and support- you aren't alone and you shouldn't try to handle it on your own. Know that I am praying specifically for you today.
To all of us... we need to pray for our dads. I have a feeling that their job is far more difficult than we could ever imagine. Whether they've been there or not, whether they have done more damage or more good, whether they'll ever know we are doing it or not... we need to pray for them... And remember that earthly fathers are but a shadow of our one true Father. Our own experiences of having fathers- and for those who are fathers, of being fathers- are meant to point us to the perfect Father who never fails us, never leaves us, never hurts us. He is the one who we are to look to as beloved children- the one who created us, chose us, came to earth to conquer sin and death for us, adopted us, has prepared an eternal dwelling with Himself for us.
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