I'm only halfway into Dr. Aaron Hass's The Gift of Fatherhood, but I'm digging it so far. There's nothing paradigm shifting in the book itself -- just basic common-sense advice on being a dad. But it does have a lot of good, practical thoughts.
"Men feel good about themselves because of what they achieve. Men derive a sense of satisfaction from the status they attain . . You don't get recognized by your peers for being a good father. . . Becoming a better father requires an examination and reconsideration of the forces which have shaped our male ideal. Indeed, you must perceive fathering as a noble endeavor, one which enhances your humanity and uniquely enriches the lives of your sons and daughters whom you cherish deeply."
While the book is secular, this thought reminded me of our injunction not to be "conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." It's easy to slip into valuing things the world esteems, rather than the things which really matter.
Posted by Discoshaman at février 13, 2005 12:09 AM | TrackBack
Very similar to the "in but not of" ideal. I for one succeeded in the worldly attainment, only to realize afterwards that I'd lost by not seeing the opportunity in being a father, despite having four kids. Only in the last few years, when external success ended, have I found the greater joy of being a parent.
I'll have to add the book to the list of my next purchases. Thanks for the thoughts and recommendation (presumed).