More than a few good men

As the role of women in society — and therefore in the home — has evolved, so too has that of her male counterpart. An increasing number of moms are working to supplement the family income while still juggling the household management, and it’s never been more apparent that dads are also stepping up, often without fanfare, to help keep the many flaming swords of the family circus in the air.  

There have always been and always will be both loving, present, and devoted dads, as well as dads who are physically or emotionally absent; so none of this is not to say that all dads in previous generations failed to contribute in the home or that all dads today are at the park on a Monday. Every household is different and has to find its own balance.

But if we’re talking about the “normal” job description of a dad in his family, then it has shifted within the last few decades, and watching many fathers of young children actively fill the position has made me hopeful for the generation developing under their invested care.

And in the wake of their examples are many men who are performing duties as grandpa that they never did (or felt they could do) as dad, which deserves equal credit.

More than a few good men are quietly supporting the dreams, health and careers of their children’s mothers — whether it’s in, from or outside of the home — while adjusting their own career trajectories, schedules and traditional roles.  

More than a few good men are also carrying the weight of parenting all alone or raising children who were not born to them.

More than a few good men work all day and still get up with the baby at night.

More than a few good men leave the house in their work clothes but put on an apron when they cross back over their thresholds.

They’re wearing baby carriers, coaching teams, providing financially, saying bedtime prayers, changing diapers, driving the carpool and (most importantly) taking the time to know the hearts of their children.  

We need to remember to recognize the good men who are showing up for their families every day.

But especially today:

We see you, dads.  

You’re doing a great job.
And we’re grateful.  

Happy Father’s Day.

by Refraction

More than a few good men

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