Millions of dads are simply trying to be good dads and they have my respect.

Young girls desperately need their dad’s approval, touch, and hugs. If they lean on you, while passing in the hallway, hug them until they let go.

Young boys (ages 10 and up) are starving for rights of passage into manhood. Dads must seize those gates of opportunity whether it’s navigating a river or using a power tool. Set them up for little successes.

The life portrayed in the song “Cats in the Cradle” by Harry Chapin is very much alive and well today. Do anything and everything you can do to not end up like that.

We hear about quality versus quantity time with our kids. Both are good, but may not be obtainable. Use whichever one that communicates value and understanding at a heart level.

You parent either by rules or by relationship. Relationship is better.

Your kids are targeted for economic and moral gain. Are they in your cross-hairs? You have a window of opportunity from age 2-10 to teach them “what is valuable” and what’s not.

There is no tough man contest for dads. You win or lose your children’s hearts on a daily basis.