Father's Day Message: 2013

For the four and a half years that my grandson, Ethan, has graced my life, I’ve told him repeatedly that I loved him. And whenever I shared that sentiment, he would always reciprocate with a hug, or an “I love you, too, Grandpa.” This morning, though, it was different.

             Ethan spent the night with us yesterday and when he woke up this morning, I gave him a hug and expressed the usual, “I love you, Ethan.” He just stood there for a second, and as he was getting dressed, he looked at me very seriously and asked, “Why do you love me, Grandpa?”

             His question froze me for a second. Then I looked him in the eyes and said, “I love you because God made you, because you’re the best boy in the whole world, and because I really like being with you, having fun with you, and doing things with you.” After reflecting briefly upon my response, Ethan replied, “OK, Grandpa. I love you too.”

             In business settings, I like to recommend the book, Start With WHY!  by the anthropologist, Simon Sinek. The author’s basic premise is that customers pretty much know what you do and how you do it. But what they really need to understand prior to developing a meaningful relationship with your business is WHY you do what you do.

            When you think about it, the same principle applies to fathers and grandfathers. Our kids and grandkids know pretty well what we do and how we behave as parents and grandparents. Sometimes they even tell us things about ourselves that we didn’t think they knew.

             So on Father’s Day, maybe it’s a good time to reflect upon how important it is to engage the children we love not just with the “What’s” and the “How’s” of life but, more importantly, the “Why’s” as well.

            Do your children know why you brought them into this world, why you love them, or why you believe they can achieve their hopes and dreams?

             Dads and Granddads, your purpose in life is to know, to engage, and to uplift your children and grandchildren. Embrace that vocation and the legacy you leave to them will be a treasure they will always remember, and one that will keep you close to them forever. Happy Father’s Day!