Thoughts on Fatherhood: Thinking You Know It All

This one could quite possible be called "Thoughts on Husband-hood" as well. Ok, ok... I'll get to the point...

We Men think we know everything. Rather, we think we should know everything. And sometimes it's not far from the truth. We need to be able to know how to hang drywall, lay flooring, fix the toilet, fix the sink, fix the oven, fix - well, everything, balance the checkbook, wire the TV/VCR/Cable, replace windows, change the oil in the car, replace tires, clean the pool, run a belt sander, perform all sorts of carpentry, fix the computers, fix the internet, write poetry, dance, cook a good meal, change diapers, kill bugs and rodents, pull teeth, tie knots, fish and hunt (or at least know the basics), first aid, fire building, tent setting-up, chop wood, fly kites... and basically save the world (all with a toothbrush and a roll of duct tape).

And that's only the abridged list.

You see, I'm not that guy in the picture above. I don't know about you other manly men out there, but I don't think I know how to do half of that stuff, not to mention even doing it well.

So what's a 'modern' man to do?

Whether it's being a good husband to Emily or a good father to Owen, there are these constant moments of realization where I just have to say, "I don't know what the heck I'm doing." The thing is, in contrast to that list above, you can't call a contractor or repair guy in to do your job as husband or father. There's no "that was easy" button. Besides, dry wall can be replaced or you can go without TV (yes, believe me, you can!), but another human being is a totally different thing altogether.

The best way to to kick back to some old school values... and pray for a little, well, A LOT of grace. Old school values never go out of style. You know, things like:

1. keep your word
2. don't take others for granted
3. lean back and don't act hastily
4. patience is a virtue
5. be committed for the long haul
6. know when to forgive someone and know when to hold someone accountable
7. don't be a loner... you can't get it done on your own
8. don't be a slacker... about anything
9. the hard lessons are often the best lessons... don't shy away from them
10. when you fall down, get right back up and keep fighting... no excuses
11. Finally, love your wife, love your family... and above all, love God with all your heart, mind and strength. He's the ONLY thing that will get you through without getting tore up by life.

Then all those chores find their proper place... and stress levels drop... and life is crystal clear. And you end up doing not such a bad job after all.