Making Dad’s Day Special

We know they do not expect or want frilly gifts and flowers and most likely don’t need another necktie, but fathers need to know that they are loved and appreciated.

Since the third Sunday of June was designated many years ago as an official time to honor dads, it has become a special day for families to gather in tribute to the man of the house.

Just like all holidays and special occasions, however, it’s easier for some than others. Those raised in homes where the father is compassionate, loving and kind, often find the day to be a joyous occasion, and most can’t wait to shower him with gifts of love and adoration.

For those whose father has not been such a positive role model, it can be a painful day to get through. Trying to find just the right card can be difficult – sometimes, even Hallmark can’t help.

And, for those whose fathers have passed on – regardless of the relationship they had with their children – the day is not easy. Those with warm, happy memories are often consumed with sentimental memories and long for days gone by. Others, with painful remembrances look back with regret, wishing it could’ve been different and wondering what they could have done to make it better, if anything at all.

Hopefully, as in my home today, there is a wonderful father figure in your life who loves both child(ren) and mother unconditionally, a man who takes his role seriously and sets the best example humanly possible for those around him.

In one of the last papers my son wrote during high school, he expressed his desire to someday be the man that his dad, Van Norris, is. That’s the way it’s supposed to be, folks. Dads, be the kind of man your son wants to be and consider the saying, “Any man can be a father, but it takes a special man to be a dad.”

Now for the wives and children, in case you’re still trying to decide how to sweeten the old boy up on his big day, here are a couple of ideas: