NFP Special: Fathers to Children
“The Father I Choose To Be” Statements
On Graduation Night, after completing the 13-week Nurturing Father’s Program,
each father reads a statement that he has written to his children and family.
This statement reflects his recent growth and new commitment as a father. It is
entitled “The Father I Choose To Be”.
Since 1998, I have had the privilege of personally being
present at some of these graduations or received the
statements in the mail. They are from deep in the hearts and
souls of men who are part of the legions of Nurturing
Fathers who are “there” for their children, and who are
quietly changing the face of fatherhood in American culture
and throughout the world.
I have chosen to share just a few of these “The Father I
Choose To Be” statements (while respecting the privacy of
the men who wrote them).
Mark Perlman
“Gentleness is an attribute of the strong. I choose to
be gentle, encouraging, and fun. I choose to serve my family, to let
wholesome words come from me. To handle frustration maturely, not to lash
out when upset. I choose to teach my children how to properly express
emotions, both by being a teacher and by example. I choose to serve my
family as their father, to provide a nurturing atmosphere for all their
needs, hopes and aspirations, successes and failures, good times and bad
times. I choose to love my family in thought, in word and in deed. I choose
to commit myself to these things because my family deserves my best. I
choose to be my best, because I also reap the rewards, and I deserve that
too.”
Florence, KY
2010
“Dear ____:
Time and circumstance have kept us apart. Now, love and trust will keep us
inseparable. You will always be with me, and I with you; whether in mind,
physically, or spiritually. You are the greatest gift a man could ever get
and that makes me the luckiest father, ever.
There is a lot to learn in this “New World” you are seeing and I want to
show and teach you everything I can. You are loving, smart, and beautiful
and these characteristics will grow as your mind and body do the same. I am
here now, and will always be here, for you and any concerns, questions, or
problems you encounter. Eventually, you’ll be a woman with your own life,
and then maybe you’ll have some answers for me as your generation inherits
the world.
I am proud of the perfect little girl you are and can’t wait to see the
person you grow into…
I love you, and that will never end. I’m your daddy and that too, will never
end.
With Infinite Love,
Your Daddy”
Florence, KY
2010