Put Dad Back In The Game This Weekend

If this sounds a little bit like wallowing, that's not the intent at all.

I was talking this morning with our national correspondent and he mentioned that as a nation this year we will spend some $22.4 billion dollars on Father's Day shopping. By comparison, as a nation we spent about $33 billion on Mother's Day shopping, and frankly I wish that number was a bit higher. I have no qualm with us spending more to honor our moms.

Anyway, according to the report on Father's Day, 75% of us will celebrate the day, with the average per person spending on the holiday at just under $190. I personally have no expectation that my family members will spend $190 to celebrate the day and, in fact, I don't want them to. Don't get me wrong, if someone shows up with a cake, I'll be happy to enjoy it. But what I want most, and I think I'm not alone, if for them to show up.

In the fabric of society, the role of a father often slips into the shadows, overshadowed by a myriad of other responsibilities and roles. Several years ago I read a book by Amity Shales called The Forgotten Man. I wonder in today's society if the role of a father or dad hasn't slipped into that position.

The subtle neglect of fathers is evident in various cultural and media representations. As I mentioned, Father's Day is often overshadowed by the grand celebrations of Mother's Day, which is as I believe it should be. But, this discrepancy reflects a deeper societal tendency to undervalue paternal contributions. Additionally, media portrayals frequently depict fathers as secondary or even comedic figures, further diminishing their perceived importance.

Yet, the impact of a father’s presence, or absence, in a child’s life is profound. Research consistently shows that engaged fathers contribute significantly to their children's emotional, social, and academic development. They instill values, provide guidance, and model behaviors that shape their children’s futures. The absence of a father, conversely, can lead to emotional and developmental challenges.

Recognizing the role of fathers necessitates a cultural shift. It requires acknowledging their sacrifices and contributions equally alongside those of mothers. Educational and workplace policies should also reflect this recognition by promoting paternal involvement from early childhood through adolescence. Society must celebrate fathers not just as providers but as integral pillars of emotional and psychological support.

I hope all of us have an enjoyable Father's Day this weekend. And, don't think you have to show up and lavish gifts on your dad. Just show up. Trust me, that will be enough.