Early in the book version of Peter Pan, Wendy’s father is jealous of the family’s beloved dog Nana. He plays a mean-spirited prank on her. And then when the children are dismayed, he complains bitterly, “Much good it is my wearing myself to the bone trying to be funny in this house!”
“Father was ashamed of himself,” the narration explains, “and yet he did it. All owing to his too affectionate nature, which craved admiration.”
The best gift a child can give:
- Is not to admire all we do (no matter how much we may crave it)
- But only to admire what is truly admirable (and learn to know the difference)
- And to love us anyway
The best gift a father can give:
- Is to teach our children not to admire all we do
- But only to admire what is truly admirable (and learn to know the difference)
- And to be grateful when they love us anyway
Parents are not perfect, spouses are not perfect and children are not perfect. Once we all acknowledge that, the better off we are. 😊
Very true, Ray.
I have that song playing in my head – teach your children
By Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young? Now I do, too! Great song-makes me nostalgic. 🙂
Yes to all, great post
Thanks, L.G.
Well said Mitch
Thank you, Kate.
Thanks, Mitch, for these wise words for dads and children! Here is one of my favorite quotes about dads from another writer I admire:
“No one values a dad till you need one. Dad is where you go when you wreck the car. Or lose a job. Or you can’t get the garage door to close. They are the only customer service that actually helps.” – Chris Erskine
With appreciation to you and ALL the dads out there who are trying hard to be good role models and live up to being the men their dogs (and kids) think they are!
<3
Happy Father’s Day!
Thanks, Scott, and likewise!
Happy Father’s Day Mitch!
Thanks, you too, Max!
Happy Father’s Day, Mitch!
Thank you, Nancy!
I really like this post! Thanks for sharing your heart and wisdom.
My privilege, San.
Happy Father’s Day, Mitch!
Thank you, Joanne!
Happy Fathers Day!
Thank you, Carol!
enter in the gate
Well said 😎👏
Thank you, Darryl.
Happy Father’s Day, Mitch!
Thank you, Liz!
You’re welcome, Mitch.
Mitch, this is very wise! I hope your Father’s Day was filled with love!
It was, and thank you, Maria!
Parents are imperfect, someone said above.
Happy Father’s Day! ❤️
Thanks, Loku!
Happy Father’s Day to you too, Mitch!
Thank you! (I’m afraid I don’t know your name.)
Oh, it’s Jennifer
Ah. Thank you, Jennifer.
You’re welcome
A hard day always for us. Thank you for your wise words.
Sorry to hear that, Maren.
Happy Father’s Day 💐
Thank you, Ramani.
Great post 💓
What a beautiful reminder that gifts aren’t always material. I love how this highlights the mutual respect and understanding between parents and children. The best “gifts” really are love, guidance, and the ability to recognize what’s truly admirable in each other.