By Brenda Cannon Henley
I have given much thought to a Father’s Day message for all the wonderful men that deserve to be treated very special on this — Their weekend. I have long thought that dads often got a bum deal when compared to the lavish celebrations planned for our mothers, and I wanted to do something to help equalize the holidays. My thoughts keep going back to one central theme. Let’s hear it for all of the good men that stepped up to the plate and reared someone else’s child. I am assuming that most dads with biological children of their own will be remembered on this holiday, and I want to especially single out those that did not have to assume the role of father.
One young man wrote, “On Father’s Day, we celebrate the men who raised us. We may not be related by blood, but I am truly blessed to have been raised by a man I aspire to be like. No card can carry the message I hope to convey to you today, any more than a title could define our relationship. Here’s hoping a heartfelt thank you is a good start.”
Another added, “You didn’t know when you first started dating my mom, you were dating me, too. I might not have been there for all of the dinners, movies, trips, or romance, but you knew I would be around for most everything else. That you weren’t scared amazes me, that you love me, too, humbles me, and that I get to thank you as my father today excites me beyond measure.”
And my very favorite — “Stepfathers who stay the course — despite the obstacles and frustration — out of dedication and a sense of duty, are among the world’s most frequently overlooked, unsung heroes.” It is really not about who was there in the beginning. It’s about who stays there until the end, and many of these good men do just that.
I am well aware that blended families offer challenges that only the strong in heart should tackle, but when it works, and when a man is a leader in the home, and love every child equally, it is a beautiful thing. I thank God for the good stepfathers (and mothers) in our lives and for the fact that God often puts them there to see that a child has not only a good beginning, but a happy and sound ending to his young life.
May every father be blessed on this your special day and let’s not forget those who took on the role when they did not have to do so. We should also remember grandfathers, uncles, brothers, cousins, teachers, and pastors that step up to the plate and provide guidance and love for all children in their care.
[6-13-2016]
Brenda Cannon Henley can be reached at (409) 781-8788, or
[email protected].
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