Naleighna Kai's Literary Cafe Magazine Father's Day Tributes | Page 33

isn’t all that great to begin with, why would the son need to follow in those footsteps? All egos aside, we should want the next generation to be better than this generation. This is how we as a people grow and flourish. Every negative word that my boys have ever heard, (whether from their father or anyone else), was followed up with positive reinforcement from me, their mother. My job was to counter the “you can’t be this,” and instill “you can be whatever you desire to be”. I have taught them that no one controls their destiny but them. It is almost as if God himself has allowed mother’s insight to be aware of things that will tear boys down. “You are the master of your destiny. You can influence, direct and control your own environment. You can make your life what you want it to be.” are wanted and desired. No child should ever need to look outside of their own home to find love and nurturing that should be freely given by the parents that birthed them. Over the years, I have witnessed so many children—boys and girls alike—looking for love and validation in all the wrong places. We tend to raise our daughters with stricter guidelines but let our sons run free. As if we don’t realize that these boys become young men, who become fathers that teach their sons to carry on the same legacy of neglect. So, I say to parents, “when your raise daughters, also raise your sons to be young men who become better fathers that push and coach their sons and daughters into greatness.” There truly are some fathers who get it right every day, all day. I salute each and every one of you. Yet, there are far more sitting around waiting on accolades when their kid becomes a famous sportsman, politician, lawyer, judge, or businessman. If someone desires to be around for the highs, be man enough to be around for the lows as well. So, whether you are a father raising sons or a mother who has to fill that void where a father should be, raise your sons. Validate them, love them, encourage them, and reassure them. Teach them to The truth is, as women we know what we desire be “more than.” in men. We see the qualities that it takes to make a great husband, whom will also become a great The same positive traits that are poured into father. This is what we should nurture in our sons. the vessel that is called a son, will be the same This is what we birth in our boys. traits that they, in turn, bequeath to their children, for generations to come. This is the most valuable We imbue them with love, strength, and validation inheritance they will ever receive. to be strong men, loving husbands, and protective fathers. The best gift you can give a child is your time. By spending time with them you also teach them that they are valuable, they are loved, they – Napoleon Hill