In Praise of Dads

In my parents’ childhood in the early 1900s, well-behaved children did not call their own father “Dad”. It was not considered respectful. Today “father” can seem formal, but the term “Dad” accompanies a sense of endearment. A Dad is more than a casual biological father. A Dad is to child and family development as a trunk is to the branches of a tree.

The trunk strengthens the tree. Through the years the trunk as well as the rest of the tree changes and grows. The trunk may not be the showiest part of the tree. It may not flower and produce fruit, but through the trunk, life in the rest of the tree is nurtured. In a similar way, a Dad’s encouraging words can fuel confidence, joy, and the inspiration to bloom in the family.

The bark on the trunk may be rough, but affords a barrier and protection from enemies and the harshness of the elements. When wildfire threatens, a distance of trunk between the ground and branches can keep the fire lower and slower than a crown blaze. When harsh winds blow, the tree may sway, but some bending resists breaking and falling. A good Dad stands against the storm. But in training the will, a good Dad is not so strict that he breaks the spirit of a child. A trunk’s stretch for the sky can guide growth to be straight and tall, just as a Dad’s guidance can encourage a little life to reach higher.

The trunk also upholds the rest of the tree with a remarkable power and balance that defies skyscraper architecture. A Dad’s support of a family is an amazing feat that deserves respect, honor, and appreciation. Do you have living Dads in your family tree? Give ‘em hugs! –c.c.c.