Having a healthy relationship with your father is important for various reasons. The bond between a father and child whether you are a young child, or an adult should be steadfast and long-lasting. At least that is my opinion. Here are three reasons why maintaining a strong bond with your father is crucial:
Emotional Support: A healthy relationship with your father can provide you with a strong emotional support system throughout your life. Fathers often serve as a source of guidance. My father was my source of guidance and he was definitely an encourager. He didn't hesitate to comfort me when I may not have felt my best. Having regular communication and spending time with your father can help to build trust and create a safe space where you can discuss your concerns, seek advice, and share your experiences. Waiting until Father's Day to express gratitude and celebrate your father's role in your life may limit the depth of the relationship and dilute the emotional connection.
Strengthening Family Bonds: When my father and I spend quality time togethering, it helped me to be more open and expressive with other family members. It allowed me to foster a better relationship with other people in my family. When that happened, our bond began to grow, and my understanding of my family created a harmonious feeling. Families aren't perfect, however cherishing and acknowledging your father outside of Father's Day festivities, demonstrates an ongoing commitment between the both of you.
Recognizing Everyday Influence: Fathers have a tremendous impact on our upbringing, values, and on our personal growth. Fathers exert an enormous influence that starts from childhood and continues all the way into adulthood. Taking the time to appreciate and celebrate your father regularly, recognizing his presence, sharing meaningful moments together, and expressing gratitude for his support, not just on special occasions but throughout the year, reinforces the love and the significance of his role.
Nurturing a healthy relationship with your father and celebrating him is a life's journey. Fathers aren't perfect. They make mistakes. Children aren't perfect, they make mistakes too. One thing is for sure, is that while living in the imperfection of daughterhood, fatherhood, and sonhood, we can both acknowledge each other with love and respect.