By Edison de Mello, MD, PhD, DAD (3)
As we evolve past the stereotype of the traditional meaning of fatherhood – breadwinner, strong, hard working, man-of-the-house – we have come to understand that being a great father is so much more than that. It is having the ability to realize how as fathers, father figures, and male role models, we can help shape a child’s life. Taking an active role in a child’s physical, emotional, and spiritual development allows the child to feel secure, thus strengthening confidence and self-esteem.
An engaging father is someone who is present and to whom you can turn to at any time for advice, a helping hand, or for just a laugh in the midst of a hard day. Being able to make time to be playful and have fun with your children are great fatherly standards to live by, while being deeply fulfilling for both father and child.
Compassion and vulnerability are also essential qualities to being a great father. Children emulate the behavior and attitudes they see, so if they see their role models being caring and compassionate, they will do the same. A father’s caring is indelibly engrained on his children, helping them to grow up to demonstrate the same generosity of spirit and caring for others.
Paternal presence and love is a treasure. It is a precious gift that begins with a decision and commitment to embody what it means to be a father.
Happy Father’s Day to all of you great dads out there!
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Dr. Edison de Mello is the Founder and Chief Medical Officer of Akasha Center of Integrative Medicine. You can schedule an appointment with him by calling 310-451-8880 or emailing us at info@akashacenter.com.
