Every year the 3rd Sunday in June is recognized as Father’s Day in the United States. Father’s Day is celebrated throughout the world but in different countries other dates may be chosen for which to honor our Fathers. No matter what day or date we choose to recognize our dads it is important that we acknowledge their love, their devotion and their self sacrificing attitude in order to care for us. With that in mind this Fathers Day think about the men in your life, and celebrate not only Fathers Day but Fathers Day in relation to their current stage in life.
Is there a man in your life that has just become a new dad for the first time, or how about a guy who is experiencing the joy of raising teenagers. The two stages bring entirely different challenges, opportunities and reflections. What about an elderly gentlemen who may be a grandfather, one whose children are so busy raising their own children that they sometimes forget how precious their own parents are. Or maybe there is a widower in your family who is lost without his mate and wonders where did all those earlier years go. This year with those ideas in mind plan to celebrate Fathers Day with an entirely different attitude.
Instead of planning a day where you go over and bbq or have a picnic think about how you can make this day really special for him no matter what stage he is growing through. Spend some quality time, stop and take notice and enjoy the moment. It can be as simple as making some comments on how special he is, the way he holds his newborn with just tenderness or how you know he is just going to be the best day ever. If he is facing the teenager trials thank him for his patience, his understanding and fortitude. Reflect on something he has said or done that shows just how great a dad he is.
For the grand dad in the family. Comment on how his guidance has enriched the family, how his laughter, wit and wisdom helped you through some challenge. Talk about the traits his children and grandchildren have developed because of his being involved in their lives. And for the man who has lost his spouse talk about how much is wife loved him, how proud she was of him, remember some funny times and let him know that you truly understand how he feels and how much his being in your life has meant.
As you can tell, none of these suggestions are materialistic. They are ideas that reflect what is in your heart. Father’s Day gives you a reason to share these thoughts and enrich all of your lives. Fathers are special no matter what stage in life and this is one day it is especially ok to reflect on what he means to you and your family.
