Today’s featured father in the #40Days40Dads project is my buddy Brandon, with whom I went to high school. I don’t keep in regular contact with too many people from high school, but I stay updated on their lives via Facebook. Brandon has been a dad for 9 years, and I’ve seen a lot of posts from him in that time that indicate how devoted he is to the calling of fatherhood. Thanks for sharing, Brandon!
#33: Brandon
Brandon is the father of 9-year-0ld and 5-year-old sons.
What was the moment when you first felt like a father?
When my oldest was just born and his mother was holding him. I had my arms around her and he held on to my finger.
What’s your favorite part about being a father?
Having them, even at 9, randomly come up to me, tell me they love me, and hug me.
What’s the hardest part about being a father?
Being divorced and not seeing them all day every day, then having rough days when they have to be punished.
What’s the dumbest/funniest thing that your kid has cried about or fought with you over?
Not an argument or crying, but when my oldest was about 3, he’d get in trouble. One time I sent him to his room and he looks at me and says, “Fine! I wanted to be in my room anyway. And I didn’t even want dessert.”
What are you most proud of having taught/shared with your kids or what are you most looking forward to teaching/sharing with them?
How to compromise.
What’s your favorite thing about your kids?
Them. Watching them grow and their personalities. How they learn and interact with each other.
If you could go back in time and give yourself a piece of advice when you first became a father, what would you say?
Ask for help. Never, ever be afraid to ask for help and admit you don’t know what you’re doing.
Any other comments to share on fatherhood?
There’s a line in an Avett Brothers’ song1 that goes, “I love you and I’m proud of you both, in so many different ways.” Always tell your children you love them and you’re proud of them. Even if the day was rough.
You can read more from Brandon at his new blog.
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