On Fathers

Obviously, this blog focuses a lot on mothers. But where would we be without fathers?

"By divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families."
The Family: A Proclamation to the World

"In order to strengthen the father in the home, I make two simple suggestions: first, sustain and respect the father in his position; second, give him love, understanding, and some appreciation for his efforts. . . .

"In terms of giving fathers love and understanding, it should be remembered that fathers also have times of insecurity and doubt. Everyone knows fathers make mistakes--especially they themselves. Fathers need all the help they can get; mostly they need love, support, and understanding from their own."
James E. Faust, “The Father Who Cares,” Ensign, Sep 2006, 2–6

"We encourage you, brethren, to remember that priesthood is a righteous authority only. Earn the respect and confidence of your children through your loving relationship with them. A righteous father protects his children with his time and presence in their social, educational, and spiritual activities and responsibilities. Tender expressions of love and affection toward children are as much the responsibility of the father as the mother. Tell your children you love them"
Howard W. Hunter, “Being a Righteous Husband and Father,” Ensign, Nov 1994, 49

"Fathers, yours is an eternal calling from which you are never released. Callings in the Church, as important as they are, by their very nature are only for a period of time, and then an appropriate release takes place. But a father’s calling is eternal, and its importance transcends time. It is a calling for both time and eternity".
Ezra Taft Benson, “To the Fathers in Israel,” Ensign, Nov 1987, 48

"The sacred title of 'father' is shared with the Almighty. In the Church men are called and released. Did you ever hear of a mortal father being released?

"...Fatherhood is not a matter of station or wealth; it is a matter of desire, diligence, and determination to see one’s family exalted in the celestial kingdom. If that prize is lost, nothing else really matters".
Ezra Taft Benson, “Great Things Required of Their Fathers,” Ensign, May 1981, 34

"God bless you, dear fathers. May He bless you with wisdom and judgment, with understanding, with self-discipline and self-control, with faith and kindness and love. And may He bless the sons and daughters who have come into your homes, that yours may be a fortifying, strengthening, guiding hand as they walk the treacherous path of life. As the years pass—and they will pass ever so quickly—may you know that "peace... which passeth all understanding" (Philip. 4:7) as you look upon your sons and daughters, who likewise have known that sacred and wonderful peace."
Gordon B. Hinckley, “‘Great Shall Be the Peace of Thy Children’,” Ensign, Nov 2000, 50–53

I am grateful to be married to a man who fulfills his calling as a father so lovingly, balancing well the many demands on his time. You can visit his thought-provoking gospel blog here. Thank you, Jared, for walking by my side as we travel on this journey as parents.

To my dad, thanks for spending time with me. I remember riding with you in the big truck to haul water. We would sing lots of songs--I especially remember shouting loudly at the top of our lungs "FIRE, FIRE, FIRE!" at the end of Mrs. Ol' Leary.

You're a great person to share a birthday with! I love you!

Happy Father's Day

This video is a great example of a father who knows what's most important. Watch it, you'll be touched.