In a couple of days we will celebrate Father's Day. That day, like every other day, I will think of my father. He passed away ten years ago but I think of him every day. He was and is my hero. When I was two years old my mother left home and moved to a different country. I was the youngest of six children and my Dad raised us, with help from aunts and others but mostly it was his job to raise me. Over the years, as I grew up, we spent a lot of time together. Going to the beach, catching a movie. Then, when I was 20, I moved away from my home country and have not lived there since. I saw my Dad every year, sometimes twice a year. I missed him when I was gone but I had my only family to take care of. What have I learned about Fatherhood from my Dad?
1. Take time for your kids.
2. Listen to them.
3. Enjoy time together.
4. Live as if you will never see each other again.
Today is what matters. Live it to the maximum.5. Work, money, fame, things; none of these are important in the scheme of things. Your kids are your life. Live for them.
6. Always encourage and praise your kids. If they do something wrong, correct them and love them more.
7. Love them unconditionally. They can never lose your love, no matter what they do.
8. Thank them for the privilege of being their father. It is the greatest title in the world.
9. Call them often, visit them when you can.
10. Never talk to them without telling them you love them. The last words you should ever utter to your children should be I LOVE YOU. Let your kids always have those words in their ears and their hearts.
If your Dad is still alive ask him to tell you and your kids his life story. Record it on video. Ask him lots of questions. Keep the answers. Take time to listen to him and spend time with him. You won't regret it.
Thank You Dad