June 19th has been set aside to thank all of the wonderful fathers out there—adoptive dads, step-dads, foster dads, and biological dads—on Father’s Day. We want to acknowledge your stellar contribution to your own families as well as to your communities throughout the world. It’s our chance to show our love and respect for you and celebrate the important role you play in building strong families and children.
When I think of my own father, his many “Dadisms” instantly come to mind; some good and some not so good, but each one remains an important part of my life today and strengthens my fond memory of him as MY Daddy. I think every father has their own set of “Dadisms” and you can be sure your children will remember these and continue to mention them at large public family events for years to come (whether you like it or not). J After all, your “Dadisms” are what make you unique, endearing and oh so special to your family!
“We’re not lost. I don’t need that map.” Thank you, dad, for your constant guidance and your ability to always help keep me on the right track. Without you in my life, I might not be able to navigate the scary parts of the real world. Besides, I’ve learned that sometimes unexpected adventures are the best experiences ever!
“Turn off those lights. Do you think I’m made of money?” Thanks Dad, for earning a living and supporting our family financially. Because of you and Mom, I have a roof over my head, food to eat and clothes to wear. You might not know it, but I also watch you go to work every day and sometimes come home very tired, but you still have time for me. I like that. Thanks for teaching me what a good work ethic looks like. I want to be like you when I grow up.
“I’m not sleeping. I’m just resting my eyes.” OK dad. Seriously?! You were too sleeping! But the fact that you caught me getting ready to do something I would later regret tells me you watch over me always and that you care for me very much. You really listen to what is going on in our house! You also let me know that I’m not too big to take naps or to relax when I am tired.
You’re not leaving this house dressed like that. Go back to your room and change clothes.” As frustrated as I am by this Dad, thanks for caring enough about me to insist I dress appropriately, maintain my sexuality in an age appropriate way and show me what a good father looks like. I know you love me even if my actions sometimes don’t show you that I love you.
“When I was your age………” OMG Dad, how many times do I have to hear this? Actually, a lot, I hope. You educate me on what it was like in the past, provide me with family history I may not ever have learned, and usually teach me about having the strength to endure hardships and disappointments. Your stories add humor to my life and often make me laugh. …Except I still don’t know how you can walk uphill both ways in the snow to school.
“Who said life was supposed to be fun?” Ugh! Discipline….it’s not fair….well, sometimes I don’t think it is. But I know you are teaching me to be responsible, respectful, and a true contributing member of the family. I may not like rules or chores or the consequences of not doing them, but I know you are doing this to help me grow up to be a good person. Thanks for being patient with me.
“Don’t tell your Mom…….” When you say this, Dad, I know we’re going to do something great! It’s usually just something small like having ice cream before dinner or climbing up on a high ladder, but it’s our time together. It’s our special time to bond and get to know each other more deeply. Sometimes, it’s allowing me to experience something new or play like boys or learn a new skill. Thanks for this individual time Dad. It means so much to me.
“if I’ve told you once, I’ve told you a thousand times….” By my guesstimate Dad, you really did tell me some things a thousand times and oh, how I wish I could hear your voice again saying those same words to me. You will never know how much I miss your presence in my life, your kind and loving hugs, your wise guidance, and your comforting smile. I miss you Dad. You made me what I am today!
To each and every Dad, Father, Pop, and Papa out there, we thank you for all that you do to make our families strong, permanent, loving, and kind. We thank you for building strong relationships with your children and giving them a forever home. We thank you for keeping your promises to them, teaching them about honesty and responsibility, and demonstrating what it means to be a good husband and father. We thank you for being exemplary heroes and role models. From MLJ Adoptions, we wish you a very Happy Father’s Day!
Karlene Edgemon, MS, LSW
Karlene Edgemon works as MLJ Adoptions’ Director of Social Services. Throughout her 25 year social services career, Karlene has been able to watch adoption transform the lives of children and she is always brainstorming new ways to support adoptive families before, during and after their adoption.
Karlene Edgemon, MS, LSW
Karlene Edgemon works as MLJ Adoptions’ Director of Social Services. Throughout her 25 year social services career, Karlene has been able to watch adoption transform the lives of children and she is always brainstorming new ways to support adoptive families before, during and after their adoption.