What lessons from our fathers and father figures stay with us over the long term? Menderist contributors share stories about fathers, including an adoptive father and a stepdad.
A father’s approach to problem-solving taught valuable, lifelong lessons to writer Wendy WorthingtonBarnes.
“My father had a very simple policy: all problems were just puzzles to be solved – all puzzles had a solution. The trick was to understand….”
An adopted son receives an unforgettable lesson from his new father.
“When I was seven years old and at a family gathering, I noticed all my cousins calling my dad by his given name, Joe. So I started….”
A father of four reflects on the steps that helped continue good family communication and build positive memories after the death of his wife, Maureen.
“When my wife passed away, the children were 12,12,14 and 15. The challenge of parenting as a single dad was terrifying. I didn’t have a plan, but I still wanted to be a family….”
A psychiatrist remembers her father’s reaction to an early driving mishap, and reflects on how that response guides her work and parenting today.
“An old family video shows me, around five years of age, crying… frustrated that my toys keep falling off a toy wheelbarrow as I struggle….”
A teacher recalls the memorable day her husband began teaching their son about money skills and budgeting.
My husband bravely became part of our family when the kids were teenagers. Memories of our wedding ceremony always make me chuckle. I picture us….”
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Every few weeks, people share encouraging essays, anecdotes, and stories about moments that turned their day around.
