Fatherhood and Dadhood

Well, life really prepares you for this right? I mean, isn't it inevitable? Isn't father/dadhood just part of the natural progression of a relationship? No. I believe there is a tremendous difference between WANTING to become a father/dad and assuming this responsibility just because THAT is what is supposed to happen. Not every man should become a father. Not every man should become a dad. There is a difference between dad and father...in my opinion. Naturally, this is totally social, not by scientific definition...these are MY definitions:

Father: provider of the sperm. the man who works hard all day and then comes home to the responsibility of fatherhood without embracing the joys of fatherhhod. the man who insists his children play sports but never offers words of encouragment. the man who looks at his son's A homework and asks, "why didn't you get an A+ ?" the man who considers money-making and lawn-mowing signs of affection. the man who tells his son who just had his heart broken by a girl to "act like a man." the man who makes sure his family is in church every sunday but fails to generate the love and compassion for Jesus throughout the week. the man who tells his children he loves after they have accomplished something...not when they feel like losers.

Dad: provider of the sperm, but also the safety and friendship to the mother. the man who works hard all day, but keeps pictures of his children rolling in the grass with his wife on his desk. the man who insists his children play sports...or whatever else makes them happy. the man who appreciates how his children interact with other students, and do their best...not what grade is received. the man who considers hugs, words, ice cream on Sunday nights, games of late-afternoon basketball, understanding, laughing, and Biblical wisdom signs of affection. the man who cries with his son when a girl has broken his heart. the man who cares more about Jesus being a present force in his home daily, than for just 1 1/2 hours on a Sunday morning. the man who tells his children he loves them after they have broken his heart, wrecked the car, smoked pot, cheated, lied, quit. the man who relies on Jesus, and not himself. the man who prays for his children like they will die without it. the man who walks into his house day after day with a smile on his face because the creator of the universe has trusted that man with His greatest creation: a child.

So, here it is. I'm 27 years old...when I have my first baby, I will be days away from 28. what have I learned in 27 years that makes me think I can be a dad? I don't know...but I'm going to trust in the Lord with all my heart, and not on myself or my own understanding. Because I know that if I trust in Him, He will make me a good Dad.

Why do I think I'll be a good dad? Because I'm one of those guys who have been waiting for this my entire life...so here we go...bust out the ice cream, and the basketball, and get ready for hugs and kisses!