A Father’s Role on Mother’s Day

On Mother’s Day, most people will obviously be talking about how great their moms are, or coming up with crafts that kids can make and give to their moms.

All of this is so important.

However, so is the role of fathers on Mother’s Day.

Here’s a story my friend told me. She was excited about being a first time mom and celebrating her first Mother’s Day. You can imagine her surprise and disappointment when on the morning of, her husband rolls over and says, “I didn’t get you anything for Mother’s Day, so don’t get me anything for Father’s Day.” But of course she did. How could she not?

The following year it was, “you’re not my mother, so I don’t need to get you anything.”

This went on for a few years. Had it not been for the odd craft that the kids made in preschool, she would have received nothing.

This happened until the wife had had enough. “If you don’t do something for me for Mother’s Day this year, I am posting it on Facebook with your email address.”

Needless to say, he finally anted up.

It wasn’t the fact that she wanted or needed a present. It was more the acknowledgement of the day. Even a bouquet of hand picked flowers or her favourite chocolate bar. A handmade card would have been nice. Not diamond earrings and expensive clothing. Just acknowledgement and appreciation.

What this story comes down to is a father’s role in Mother’s Day (or at least what it should be in a two-parent household).

A father’s role is to teach his children to appreciate mom. He should model this behaviour and encourage the kids to think of something special to do. A father needs to be the driving force behind this, especially when kids are little. What an opportunity to set a great example!

 

So, to all you fathers out there, find a way (and it doesn’t have to be expensive) to help your kids honour and appreciate their mom on Mother’s Day! And, while you’re at it, phone your own mom!