Unfortunately, over the past several decades, the role of fathers has been minimized or even dismissed entirely by small groups. I recall watching sitcoms in the 90s, and the fathers, or men, in general, were portrayed as buffoons who were highly incompetent, unreliable, and even useless. Much online content has been geared towards tearing down men and their roles in society, including the idea of fatherhood. If you go on social media, it seems there are an equal number of posts celebrating single mothers as there are for fathers on Father’s Day. While I believe many of these views are sensationalized and not widespread opinions of the majority of people, the fact is that the rhetoric is out there to some degree. 

I won’t get into why these viewpoints exist, as there are likely numerous reasons. And I will admit that men out there have done horrific things to justify a lot of the hate we receive as a collective. However, to broadly paint all, or the majority of men, as toxic, or terrible fathers, or unimportant, is unfair and not in the realm of reality. There have been many great men out there, past and present, who deserve to be celebrated as much as the bad ones deserve to be demonized.

This brings me to my point today, which is to say that dads matter tremendously, and I want to drive this point home on Father’s Day. Fathers, you matter in your child’s life. You matter in society. Don’t ever let anyone make you believe that you don’t. You are an essential part of your kiddo’s life, just as much as the mother.

Fatherhood is often not celebrated and even treated as secondary to motherhood. However, both roles matter equally, but may be important for different reasons. While traditional roles have been blurred to some extent, mothers are still often viewed as nurturers, while fathers are seen as protectors. Mothers often take care of the home, while fathers provide for the household. Once again, I’m not saying that these roles are always concrete and cannot be taken on by the other party in various situations. They certainly can, especially in the cases of single parenthood.

So, why do fathers matter? They shape the lives of childhood just like the mother does. They bring their own energy into the home, just like the mother. Fathers teach their son how to be men, and what their daughters should look for in a man. Father’s matter in quiet ways. They will wake up early to go to work so they can provide for their family, even though they’re tired and may have been up late the night before dealing with problems. They are often the backbone of the household, ensuring their family has a safe place to stay and all the necessities of life. A father will come home tired but still take care of household responsibilities and play a few games with his child before bedtime.

Fathers change the emotional balance of a home. They shape the understanding of what safety means and provide a sense of stability for the entire homestead. As a father, you can be a significant presence in moments of uncertainty, helping your child learn what strength truly means. Children will learn a great deal by watching how you navigate the world and its challenges. And remember, if you’re not perfect, that’s okay, because your child can learn from your imperfections. Mistakes can be turned into tremendous learning opportunities.

A good father is not without flaws; however, he is present, and that’s what matters most. Sometimes he is present quietly, like when he goes to work. Other times, he is out front, like playing a game of catch or having a tea party. Children do not need a perfect world, but parents who will be there for them through both serenity and chaos. Fatherhood is not about status or recognition. It is about showing up time and again, regardless of the circumstances. The father is not only there for his children, but for his family as a whole. Happy Father’s Day, Gentlemen. Now, go out there and enjoy your day, and never forget that you matter.