Where's My Dad?

You've got to be kidding me right? There are Apps on the internet for children to try and locate...yep, Dad! Several years ago I happened to be at the State Fair of Texas. While walking around in the vast number of patrons, there in front of me was a little fellow about 9 years of age or so on the verge of panic and the one question he kept repeating was, "where's my dad!" He was lost, afraid, and in the midst of a thousand people he was alone. We went to the lost and found, an announcement was made and shortly his father arrived and they were reunited.

"Children possibly may not need anything, but they need for their family to resemble their friend's family next door. If it doesn't, it will usher in a deep and possibly difficult discussion." Listen, my hat is off to single mothers out there trying to hold it down and raise your sons. God bless you...really! Continue the fight and be strong. But there are questions, emotions, and guidance that should come from...yep Dads! Some of the anger and hatred that's in these young boys is because they are carrying around the blame and guilt for dad not being there. Forget all the extenuating circumstances, the lame excuses, and the procrastinating. Get over the fact that she cheated on you or he cheated on me self-pity party...dad where are you? Dads your sons are self-destructing and they are taking no prisoners! You've got to get out of the  denial, it's her fault, self-pity closet find and reconnect with your sons! The hate and the hurt that they feel is because dads are not responding! Now here's a twist...some of the dads are setting at home! Yeah...neglect! He's your son, but in name and looks only! Come on man, take an interest in your son. So what, he's not the next Tom Brady or Kyler Murray. He's yours and whatever it is that interest him, should interest you. After all this guy didn't ask to be here. Hey man, show some enthusiasm and encourage him to pursue the interest or sport that makes him happy and involved. Listen to them, talk with them, apologize to them, and try putting your arms around them and tell them you love them. Answer the tough questions and for crying out loud, don't lie to them any longer. For some of you dads, you're going to have to work to build up the trust and respect that's absent in your relationship. Don't be afraid to admit your faults as this helps them relate to theirs. Many of you have been missing in action for a while. Whatever you do, don't try to buy your way back into your son's life. They don't need things...they need you! Let them see you care. Be firm, be flexible but most of all be fair. Your son wants to know that he is a priority in your life. Dad's make a plan to get your sons off the electronic pacifier and cyber nipple. Take them fishing, go camping or even glamping, go to a ballgame, ride bikes or just walk and talk.

If you won't take the time to fill a spot in their lives, they will replace you and you're not going to like your substitute! Can you hear me now?