This past weekend marked the annual celebration of Father’s Day.
For some of us, this offers a welcome opportunity to experience joy amid the grief we’ve been processing.
For others, the public acknowledgements this holiday brings only compounds that grief.
It’s all totally valid.
So, no matter who you are or what you’re feeling right now, this is our wish for you– today and always:
If you’ve raised children or are raising them now…
If you’ve fathered a child…
If you’ve adopted…
If you’re a stepfather…
Are fostering or assuming guardianship…
If you’re navigating infertility…
If you’ve experienced miscarriage or infant loss…
If you’ve lost your father…
If you’re not close with your father…
If you never knew your father…
If you’re a father who’s missing your child…
If you’re a father mourning the loss of your child…
If you’re a professional who cares for and supports fathers and children…
If you’re experiencing unplanned pregnancy…
If you’re experiencing planned pregnancy…
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, insecure, and lost as a father…
If you’re feeling confident and at peace as a father…
If you’re looking forward to becoming a father…
If you’re unsure you ever want to be a father…
If you’re certain you don’t…
We see you. We value you.
And we wish you:
- Gratitude, even in your struggles
- Emotional wellness, every day
- Compassion for yourself
- Healthy boundaries around your time, energy, and resources
- The ability to say No and let go more often
- The humility to say “I’m sorry.”
- Curiosity about your own emotions and the emotions of others
- Strength to move past fear and self-doubt
- Real, lasting happiness
- Laughter, everyday
- Kindness towards, respect for, and patience with yourself
- The courage to accept help when you need it
…and the awareness that you’re never alone.
Enjoy this post? You might also like:
How to Practice Gratitude When You’re Not Feeling Particularly Grateful
Self-Compassion: 4 Ways to Start Practicing It Today
Your Emotional Wellness: 50+ Ways to Support It
Could you use some support?