Family Friday Newsletter - 2 min read by Finley Robinson

A Single Sentence from a Season Ahead

Fatherhood

On this Father's Day weekend, I wish I had the opportunity to grab every young father that I could find and pump him up. If I could, I would try to help that dad believe that he has more power than he could possibly imagine.

Fathers are models, teachers, mentors, visionaries, coaches, and friends.

Dads teach their kids many things throughout their lives. Sometimes they pass on money and memories. They also leave hurts and bad habits. It's always a mixed bag. Thankfully, I found they always pass on the good stuff and only some of the bad in most cases.

Maybe your dad taught you how to fish.
Maybe your dad taught you how to draw.
Maybe your dad taught you how to tell stories.
Maybe your dad taught you how to enjoy movies.
Maybe your dad taught you how to create a budget.
Maybe your dad taught you how to cook or clean a toilet.

No matter what it was, Dads carry forward much of what they learned from their father. They also pass along much of the same to the next generation.

I've found, most dads fail to take an audit of what they are imparting to their kids. I learned along the way that if I cared about my kids then I should care about what I was teaching them.

So what will it be in your home? Here are a few that I took from my family of origin and have tried to pass along to my kids as well.

5 Lessons My Dad Taught Me

1. Live below your means.

My dad was a doctor and could have put his money on display. Instead, he was frugal, always paid cash, and drove the same truck for almost 20 years. He cared more about being a good doctor than living like one.

2. Be faithful in the small things.

My dad always took care of the small stuff. For his family, his church, and his clinic partners. He cared about the small and easily overlooked things. Because of that, he was always trusted with the big issues when they arrived.

3. Love one woman.

He has dated my mom from age 18 till today (he’s now 70 years old). In some years, love looked like earning a paycheck. Others it was partnering in parenthood. Now it's using his medical knowledge to navigate some health issues. Love has looked different but his love for his wife has never wavered.

4. Generosity is a lifestyle.

He bought cars for people who were struggling. Opened his home to strangers and in-laws. Fed the community. Took his family on adventures. Helped scared parents after hours who had sick kids in the neighborhood. His quiet generosity had a deep impact.

5. Follow Jesus whole-heartedly.

He not only read his Bible but his life reflected it. He put his faith into action in his home and community. His integrity reflected his belief and he prayed for his kids and grandkids. His conviction has never wavered and his faith has been impactful.

Dads, it's always a good idea to take a brief audit of what you're teaching your kids. Writing down what your father taught you is a great place to start.

See you next Friday,
Finley