|
Part of the responsibility of being a father is to establish a strong
foundation
for the family. Just like a building foundation, much of this work goes
unseen and rarely gets acknowledged, yet the strength and integrity of
the entire structure relies on it. The following intentions, although
not always perfectly fulfilled, give us guidance in our mission.
Grounded in Reality
While my children
may put me on a pedestal, I have my feet firmly on the ground and
acknowledge my own strengths and weaknesses.
Demonstrative Love I take the
time to
know and understand the best way to communicate my love to each and
every child. My children see my love for my wife clearly expressed.
Mutual Respect. By honoring and
never ridiculing the thoughts, emotions and actions of my family, each
member clearly experiences and understands my great respect for them.
Consistently Predictable. My
family is comforted and anchored by my
predictability. My deepest values are consistently
demonstrated in my speech and behavior.
Predictable Spontaneity.
My
family knows that I am extremely curious
and love to explore and learn. My spontaneity is
consistent. We plan with flexibility, and the
children look forward to unexpected adventures.
Responsible. My children see how
I prepare and follow through, owning up to my responsibilities. They
learn by my example. Safety/Security
I take safety very
seriously and my children know it. They have learned by my examples,
for instance: I always wear a helmet when skating, skiing or bicycle
riding, and I take first-aid and CPR classes. Our car does not go into
motion until all seat belts, including mine, are on. Primary
Advocate
My children know
that I stand behind them and will protect, defend and honor them at all
times. I do not discuss my children's failings with others.
Serious Humor
I deliberately use humor liberally to lighten stress
and lubricate relationships to ensure a cohesive family.
WYSIWYG What you see is what you get.
I practice what I preach and that includes accepting
human frailty and mistakes. The greatest
foundation for a
family is living with integrity.
Copyright 2004 by CoachVille, Dovid Grossman and Ken Mossman
|
