Monday, June 20, 2011

A Champion Among Us


Here's a great word from my good friend, Herb Devine, to encourage and celebrate the gift of being a Dad!

There's a champion in disguise among us.....it is likely this champion is not obvious to you. His deeds are courageous and life changing for those to whom he gives his life. He is disguised as a father. His humble cloak conceals his greatness, yet his deeds,in all likelihood, will form the character of the next generation.
His deeds include wiping noses and changing diapers, teaching his boys to work and his girls to guard their dignity. His job description includes providing a wall of protection, to guard his children's hearts; yet he must lead them to greater challenges--which at times seems more than they can bear, with in mind, the day will come in which he will not be there. This unnoticed hero is doing the vital work of instilling virtue, honor, and courage deep within the hearts of those who look to him for guidance. Their minds recall his praise, his encouragement, his challenge, and his correction for decades.
He must be in disguise because if the strength of his influence captured the public eye, they might tempt him away from his duty to his children for less noble endeavors. Giving all his strength and crying out for more, he does the arduous, often overlooked task, of being a dad. He may not receive the praise of a speech well given, a corporation built, or wealth accumulated--he may not receive our notice for his great physique, golf course tan or the sports car in his garage--but he is still a champion. He is a father. Without him, our culture will fall.
Best Wishes on this Father's Day!
Thanks, Herb!

Good reads on the subject include:

Family Driven Faith: Doing What It Takes to Raise Sons and Daughters Who Walk with God

Shepherding a Child's Heart