What Makes A Man A Father?

Unfortunately for me, no matter how much I try to distance myself from my Dad, it just seems that I can't.  I still have two siblings under the age of 18, and I am often reminded of how he continues to shirk his responsibilities.  Today, I was again reminded of the person he is and why exactly I continue to have no contact with him. 

Needless to say, I am sad.  Even though I am no longer a child, I still feel the pain of my younger sisters and brothers.  I don't think that it matters how old you are, you likely still enjoy having a relationship with your parents.  Since my father does not hold up his end of the deal, in regards to being a parent, I have stepped in many times to make the burden of my younger siblings lighter.  I also want them to know that not all people are bad and that with hard work and dedication anything is possible.  I hope that I have been a good influence.

With all that said, I started searching the Internet this morning looking for "What Makes A Man A Father?".  There were a few good postings, but I figured that I could do better myself.  So, here I go...

Being a father is not simply being a sperm donor.  Nor is being a father simply providing financial support for the children.  Being a father is many things.  Being a father includes unconditional love and support.  Guiding your offspring in the right direction and helping to pick them up if (and when) they fall.  Being a father means being a decent human being, someone who the younger generations can look up to and strive to pattern their lives after.  Someone who, will still make mistakes, but hopefully mistakes that do not result in irreversible damage.  Even if a mistake is made, a real father owns the mistake and does not try to place blame on all others. 

I do know several good fathers.  For you, I am thankful.  If you are one of the good fathers, go home and hug your kids tonight, just because.  Remember, there are many kids who never get a hug, just because.