This weekend we'll be celebrating Father's Day. It's a big deal being a father. Of all the things that men get to do or have to do being a father is the most important of all jobs.
So, what does it take to be a good father?
We've got to listen. Listening is one of those great methods of truly connecting with our children. Taking the time to listen, really listen to what is being said shows we care. Sure, when the game is on and the kids come through asking a question or making a statement it's sometimes aggravating. But, the father who takes the time to listen is also doing this:
We've got to teach. Being a good father requires us to teach our children so many things. Sure, when to cross the street and what to wear to a party are all part of it. But we also teach skills. How to talk, how to listen, how to interact with others. The father who takes the time to teach is also doing this:
We've got to coach. Teaching is one thing but coaching is special. Coaching requires us to to encourage our children to grow and to learn. Encouragement is critical which leads us to:
Being a role model. If our young children see us acting out of anger or getting upset at the call of the umpire or using poor language we shouldn't be surprised if our children start to act in the same manner. If we model positive behavior. If we are respectful of others. Those are ways in which we build character in our kids.
Being a father is pretty cool. If we try our best and work at being a good father we'll be able to stand back and launch our children into the world confident of their success in life.
We wish each of you a Happy Father's Day!
Have a wonderful Shabbat! The Torah Portion this week is Parsha Shlach (Think Spys!) Numbers 13-15.
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