This month’s tenet celebrates the irreplaceable role of fathers, and then adds a twist–our need to build interdependent relationships with men. These are two vital concepts, often dismissed as outdated or misguided, that we must defend and model for the rising generation.
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is a book I loved from a young age and have returned to often. What drew me in initially and brings me back to its pages is the compelling central character, Atticus Finch, a hero in every sense of the word, especially to his daughter, Scout. Lee aptly described this relationship: She did not stand alone, but what stood behind her, the most potent moral force in her life, was the love of her father. Pat’s video expands on that potent force of fathers on their daughters.
Our writers masterfully help us view fathers and interdependent relationships with men from several angles and viewpoints. Shelli brings a smile with remembrances of her grandfather’s love and lessons, Lisa hopes that the things she has taught her sons will guide them to fulfill roles as providers and protectors of the women in their lives, and Kaylee shows us how she chose to see her weekend getaway as a gift of sharing and growth for her and her devoted husband.
Emily uses her granddaughter’s progress in crawling to illustrate how relationships can develop from dependent, to independent, and finally to interdependent. Ann highlights men who help Big Ocean Women and gathered tributes and photos from other members as well. I share examples of my father, grandfathers, and other men who stepped in and stepped up to enrich my life.
No matter our circumstances or history, may we each share a father-like love with all the children of every age in our lives.
Norma grew up in rural Utah in a home furnished with good books and music, the newspaper, and fresh-baked cookies. She still enjoys big ideas, baking, and sharing life with Clyde—her husband, best friend, and versatile life assistant. Norma had dreams of writing a newspaper column. She even earned a degree in newswriting at the University of Utah—30 years, five children, and several grandchildren after beginning at Snow College. Now she not only gets to write and edit, but also rub shoulders and share great ideas with the capable, passionate members of Big Ocean.
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