Out of the "Dad Box"- A Father's Day Reflection

So, it’s that time of year again. No, I’m not talking about beach fun or vacation time. I’m talking about that time of year where we get to celebrate dads across America. That’s right, Father’s Day. As we rush to the stores to get that funny looking tie, extra grill supplies, or whatever we’re going to get dad, let’s take a moment to reflect on what a “real” dad can mean. To many, being a dad is synonymous with the tough, rugged, “bringing home the bacon” kind of guy. However, many dads out there are also proud to step outside of the normal “dad box” and be one of those diaper changing, cooking and cleaning soccer dads. Hopeful Horizons is always in the community challenging societal views of what it means to be a real man. When children are able to witness their dads live a healthier version of masculinity that does not involve dominance and control, they learn that compassion and kindness are key ingredients to what it means to be a strong man. We recognize that dads of today are more involved than ever, and we celebrate all they do. Being a dad means that you can be a superhero in the eyes of your children as well as a shoulder to cry on when times get rough. Dads out there are redefining and cultivating what fatherhood means, and that is truly something that we at Hopeful Horizons support. Whether you are the tough and rugged dad, the cooking and cleaning dad, or the everything in between dad, you are important and special. More importantly, dads play a big role in ending the cycle of violence by modeling healthy masculinity that is built on mutual respect, equality and the sharing of power in relationships. So, from everyone at Hopeful Horizons to all the dads out there, Happy Father’s Day!