John Turner speaks about the fairytale of fatherhood he saw on television and how his own step-dad showed him real dads do exist.
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As a child growing up, it was great to watch “The Cosby Show” on Thursday nights on NBC television. in my neighborhood, growing up, everyone’s dad was Heathcliff Huxtable. All my friends wanted a dad just like Dr. Huxtable; a driven, caring, funny, family oriented father. The thing about this though was…..Bill Cosby was just playing a role on television. When I looked around my neighborhood, most of the young people, including myself, grew up with single mothers raising us. There were no fathers around or in the homes like those we saw on television.
It almost seemed like a dream to have a father actually in the home with their kids until my stepfather came into my life. He showed me things that as I got older, I really appreciated. My stepfather taught me how to tie a tie, cut grass and act appropriately around older people. I learned there are some men who love the role of being a father. They understand the importance of being there for the children of the world and how setting a great positive example is essential to a child’s growth.
Today, I want to celebrate the great fathers and let the world know that there are still some real fathers around today who really care about being there for our young people.
Unfortunately, it does seem that sometimes in today’s world more youth are having a harder time learning (or being taught ) how to grow up and become men of substance. There are things a father brings their child that aren’t inherent to a mother and vice versa. Things like work ethics from a male point of view, being there as the male pillar for families and others, as well as a masculinity that is passionate yet sympathetic and understanding. In my personal belief, we could certainly be the fathers that God wants us to be.
As parents, we need to let our children know that being a father is one of the most respected titles a man can have. Every child deserves the opportunity to know who their father is and have a relationship with both parents when possible. It’s not always about just being a father to your own children. Many men are surrogate dads to children in their communities. These men provide guidance and support to children.
It’s great to see examples of fathers in non traditional male roles, because it teaches children that there are many facets of fatherhood. Whether it is helping with homework, providing community assistance by attending or holding activities, or even by being a positive presence in the schools, churches, and our homes, great fathers are still out there in the world today doing great things for our youth.
I thank all the fathers who are there for the children of the world and know that your love is and always will be appreciated and needed every single day.
Photo: Creativedc/Flickr
John, great article and I appreciate your efforts. Kids need their dad’s and I don’t know how many different ways to say it or how many studies proving it, that something will change. Obviously, your efforts and others efforts are making a difference. We need a few hundred thousand of you. Thank you!