Michael

Fathers, like mothers, are not born. Men grow into fathers and fathering is a very important stage in their development. – David Gottesman

It is much easier to become a father than to be one. – Kent Nerburn

I don’t know about other fathers, but I didn’t find being a father to come naturally. I had to learn how by trial and error, patience and a lot of hard work. Thank goodness my daughter had an excellent training program. This year I wanted to do something a little differently. I am a father because of my daughter. Without her, I’d just be another guy. lol

Here’s what my daughter helped me to learn:

1. Unconditional love
2. Courage
3. Selflessness
4. Patience
5. Joy
6. How to laugh at myself
7. The true meaning of fear (i.e. I was initially terrified that I would be a bad parent)
8. How to focus on the present moment
9. How to have fun like a child again
10. What it really means to raise a teenage daughter

Thanks Linsday! It’s a gift to be your dad.