Happy Father’s Day to all the wonderful fathers in the world
Welcome to the 27th episode of Giving Back Insights, my Thursday solo show where I talk about how our guests and their charities serve others, to explore actions each of can take to make a difference in people’s lives and to share. Today I’m talking about the impact of Father’s day in my life! Listen to today’s episode and don’t forget to give your feedback and valuable comment. Enjoy!
Tweet ThisKey Takeaways:
Happy Father’s Day! Look at my beautiful kids!
Parting words for new parents:
“There are things your little boy is going to do and say that you’ll think, ‘no other baby has ever done that before! He’s so special and unique!’ And you know what?”
“What?”
“You’re totally right, and don’t let anybody tell you different”
A few days ago I received an amazing gift from my family. I lashed out one day in anger and frustration, reflecting me at my worst. They forgave me. How I acted wasn’t normal, it wasn’t who I am. It was a mistake, and they treated it as a mistake. Learn from it, and move on.
What an awesome gift of love they gave me. Happy Father’s Day to me, I am so freaking blessed. I love my family with all my heart and here’s the letter that I would write to myself to be a better father.
*********
Dear Rob,
This is what I wish I’d known the first time I stared into my newborn’s eyes:
Always err on the side of love and kindness.
Life will feel hard sometimes. Many things will happen in life that is out of your control, and they can be real sources of stress. What you CAN control is how you respond to these situations, your behavior, and communication. Remember that no matter what happens, your kids love you.
If everything you say and do reflects the love you felt the first time you looked into each of their eyes, you’ll be a much better father. Every time you’re with them, talk to them, or they think of you, you want them to know that your love is unconditional, without limit or reserve.
This doesn’t mean they aren’t responsible for what they do or say. You’ll be much more effective father if they know you’re coming from a place of love. Whether it’s nagging, reprimanding, or simply having a conversation, they will listen with a more open heart and mind when they know your words are based on love.
Rob, don’t be stingy with your love. Love them with all your heart, all the time. Love them like there’s no tomorrow.
So figure out how to show them with your words and actions that you love them. Do that ALL THE TIME. That will make a difference, I promise.
p.s. remember to smile more when you’re talking to them. Sometimes it’s hard for kids (and everyone else, by the way) to know the difference between your look of anger and fierce concentration.
Don’t be stingy with your love. Always err on the side of love and kindness.
Love & Gratitude,
Rob
