Happy Fathers Day Fellas, Now Let's Get To Work.

Growing up, I always affiliated this day of the year with 3 things: neckties, grilling out, and Dad in a good mood lol.

When I turned 16, however, I read a book called Season of Life. We were required to write a report for Mrs. Bakke’s sophomore English class and I was naturally drawn to the softcover with a monster football on the front. My dream, at that time, was to become an NFL QB. Little did I know that my life was about to be redirected forever…

I won’t go into detail, but to recap, the book speaks about an NFL player, formerly of the Baltimore Colts whom had retired and had one mission left in his life: to reach the young men who had no father in inner city Baltimore. He found something much bigger than the game we all love and reversed the trajectory of these kids from drugs and gangs to life and a future. My heart beat like a drum as I was encountering this story: “What?!? Something bigger than football? And he has so much joy doing it!” Then, a voice spoke to my soul: “THIS, Brock. This is the calling of your life…”.

So, what does my childhood dream and stepping into my purpose have anything to do with you? Men, I’m convinced that we have dropped the ball. Since when did warriors of old go to gaining 70 lbs, lounging on something that’s nicknamed it’s sole purpose (“La-Z-Boy”) and abandoning our most important calling: Raising up the next generation!?!

But, how big of a void do fathers really play anyway? Check out the attached graphic from our friends at National Center for Fathering. Insane, right?

Now, if you happen to be a single mother reading this, I couldn’t be more proud of what you are accomplishing, and I’d also like to apologize for when, we, as men, have failed. If you’re a kid without a dad, reading this, not all hope is lost. Buck the trend and fight “well, true, and honorably,” as Becca’s dad preaches. If you get the chance to be a father, one day, remember the absence and vow to set a new precedent.

Personally, this is my first year of stepping into fatherhood. Zyon is a little over a month old, and as his dad, I’ve already recognized my shortcomings: “Man, school is so busy…When I graduate, THEN, I will be more present…His mom can handle such and such…”. If you are a dad, like me…HOW FREAKING COOL is our job as husbands and fathers?? I’m not ok with how I’ve performed thus far…

This may not be you, however. In fact, we need to honor and applaud the fathers whom are in the homes, providing for their families, and raising their children “well, true, and honorably.” But, I would also like to extend an invitation to you to join me for the next 365 days until Father’s Day 2022 comes around. See, ‘just showing up,’ isn’t enough. Attending kid’s games without joy or your mind on work, shows through to the very ones you’re there to support. Additionally, how are you treating your wife?  ‘Just another day mentality’ or are you treating her like the queen she is? Frick man. I feel like I just received my high school diploma in terms of knowing my wife. I’m trying to get my undergrad, masters, and PhD in helping her blossom (yes, stole that from the 2008 flick Fireproof J)! Did you know that that is the most powerful nonverbal example that we have and has an ENORMOUS impact on how your kids will treat their friends, significant other, and future spouse? Live by example. Exhausted from work? Cool. Now it’s time to serve our wives at home..

In conclusion, Dads: this day is for you. I know that many of you have made sacrifice after sacrifice in order to give your family the best life that they can experience. Thank you. You guys are the real MVPs and I want to be more like you. Sadly, you are the exceptions, not the rule. There are so many kids out there whom would kill to have a man like you in their lives. Can you think of kids besides your own, whom could really use your influence this next year? What you do is so very powerful!

To those of you whom like me, have a lot of work to do: no more excuses. Do you need to become more present? Are there amends that you need to make with your kid(s) or your wife? Happy Fathers Day fellas. Enjoy today. We have work to do…

Until next time,

Brock Baumgarn CA, Nutrition Consultant, Health 1^st Chiropractic and Wellness Center

Bibliography:

Marx, Jeffrey. Season of Life: a Football Star, a Boy, a Journey to Manhood. Simon & Schuster, 2004.