“Your mind will always believe everything you tell it. Feed it faith. Feed it truth. Feed it with love.” – Unknown
Today is Father’s Day and if you manage to find yourself celebrating this American tradition, you along with millions of others will take the time to honor the men in your lives that are called fathers. Whether biological, distant relatives, or simply great role models. Honestly, I try not to get too caught up with these type of man-made holidays, especially for my children, because as a kid it added so much unnecessary pressure on me to spend time on a purchase, versus spending the time honoring the one(s) that impacted my life in a meaningful way. So I choose to celebrate the day reflecting on those that made a difference in my life and pay less attention on what I can do for them.
Regardless of my personal stance with the “day”, I cannot help but to take a moment and reflect on what it means to me to be a father. With the insurmountable statistics that negate the positive influences that black fathers like me have in the world, today it is important to acknowledge those that still struggle, yet are trying to do the right thing.
I read something today that sparked a thought, and that was the many invisible accusers we have as men and fathers. Many of us have not done the right thing along our journey as men, (and some never will) but some of us bloom later in life and finally figure it out, and want to do what is right. And even though we are not always sure what “doing right” looks like, our hearts are pure and ripe for wholesome interactions with those we call family, especially for our children. One thing we must consider, is good intentions do not necessarily equate to a good outcome, so patience, good counsel and consistency is important during this time.
What we also need to recognize are the many voices in our heads that speak doubt, fear and promote insecurity. These are such big deals for us, even if we choose to not admit it. Our worst enemy lives inside our heads and reminds us of our past failures, poor decisions and inability to simply get it right, however for those of us that choose to not live in the past, we are seeking new revelations, new beginnings and pressing towards a new future that is not defined by who we were, once upon a time.
Contrary to popular belief, old things do and can pass away, but unfortunately many (included you and me) will not ever see the manifestations of what it looks like to live a different life if we fail to own this for ourselves. I mean like really different! Where authenticity has become a part of your new DNA and you will swear to your own hurt even if it means doing what is honorable and right.
The invisible accuser will always attempt to live in our heads. Accept that as a way of life. We have gave him much ammunition to tempt us, deceive us and get us off track, but once we connect with who we truly are we become a threat to those voices. It is in that place where are intentions need to align with are actions.
This in not the time to faint, but stand strong on the convictions of your spirit and soul. Walk in humility (strength in control) and live a life of integrity. This will pay dividends towards your future and current relationships.
I will never be perfect, but I am here. Living a life that will ultimately encourage a positive legacy despite my past, and what others have to say about who I was. My proof is in the current relationships I foster daily, for they speak volumes to who I am (versus who I use to be) like nothing ever will.
Everyday (thanks to my newness in Christ and choice to grow) I am getting better everyday and I defy the invisible accuser. I am more than my past as you are. Happy Father’s Day!
Keep Pressing,
Hank G