Jack is gold

Sherri T.

 

Father’s Day provides an opportunity to acknowledge and thank the wonderful dads in our lives.  I waited until today to share my mother’s wise words about a very special and exceptional father (and partner).

Many years ago, my parents travelled from out of town for a weekend visit.  Just before they walked out the door, my mother came up to me and whispered: “Jack is gold.” 

Who knew that she could say so much with so little?  Who knew that such small words could be such big words?  

She did.  My mother knew quality when she saw it.  

She saw a genuinely fine person devoting every waking moment of every single day to the well-being of his family. 

The children have been especially fortunate to have the “best dad.”  They don’t need to rely on a burgeoning body of literature to prove what they already know.  A growing volume of research confirms that fathers, like mothers, are pillars in healthy child development. 

Engaged fathers are linked to better outcomes on nearly every measure of child wellbeing, from cognitive development and educational achievement to self-esteem and positive social behavior.  Children look to their fathers for both physical and emotional security.

These studies validate the fact that involved fathers promote inner growth and strength.  Fathers who are affectionate and supportive positively affect child intellectual and social development.  Both their presence and behavior instill a sense of wellbeing and self-confidence.

Fathers not only shape their children’s self-esteem, but also have an effect on how well they engage with others as teenagers and young adults.  The way fathers treat their children influences the qualities they look for in other people.  

Young girls depend on their fathers for security and emotional support.  If their fathers are loving and gentle, daughters tend to seek these vital qualities in a partner.  

Boys generally model themselves after their dads.  If their fathers are caring and treat people with respect, their sons typically will emulate this behaviour.  

My mother was correct. 

Jack, you are gold.  You are precious and priceless.  You shine warmly and brightly in our lives.   

Thank you for who you are and for everything you do.