What does it mean to be a father?

Composed by Fathers for Change client and IPV-FAIR Clinician Sonya Klein —

What does it mean to be a father?

It means everything…
I’m only here because I need to know they are okay
Fathers…
Console their kids
Make sure their needs are met
Show them how to do things – help them with problems
Teach them respect – work ethic
Are always around
Try to make all kids feel equal
Make sure they understand certain aspects of themselves
Teach them self-motivation
Teach them not to be abusive – control their rage
Teach them how to treat women

I didn’t have a father
My stepfather was a good guy… until he started using drugs

When I’m gone I want my kids to say that I was the best dad in the world
I was sometimes a goofball but I had fun with them
I was always there for them, always dependable