Domino Effect of Fatherhood

 

Can you imagine someone standing at a gate or in a doorway wearing their eyes out as they watch day after day for the return of a loved one? This is common among those concerned about the welfare of sons or daughters who have wandered away into a world of substance abuse and addiction. From behind prison bars I share with my wife the watch while waiting for the return of a wandering son. The question arises regarding a father's culpability even if only by not being present. Everyone is accountable for their own actions, but fathers must also accept responsibility for the domino effect when absent from parental guidance.

I look among the men whose crimes have removed them from the graces of society and realize they are not alone as prisoners. Most of these men are not likely to understand how their actions have created a reflective captivity for their loved ones. Especially for mothers struggling to provide for their children. It is not difficult to find a contributing factor to this malady as we consider the neglect of father’s familial responsibility for guidance and nurture within the family. Past actions and results may be difficult to overcome, yet the affected loved ones need not remain captive in a downward spiral. It is important that we as husbands and fathers set a proper example that others may follow.

Even though past actions have cast a pall over the present, change is possible. A promise found at Joel 2:25 gives hope when time is lost: "And I will restore to you the years that the locust has eaten" (KJV). After being sentenced to prison it is common for men to become complacent and lackadaisical. The Apostle Paul tells us to wake up and rise from the dead, then he continues: "Live life, then, with a due sense of responsibility, not as men who do not know the meaning and purpose of life but as those who do. Make the best use of your time, despite the difficulties of these days." (Ephesians 5:14-16 PHILLIPS)

As a father awaiting a sons return, I hold open the portal to future possibilities for others as they come to understand the domino effect of fatherhood. Following the Apostle Paul's sage advice is prudent for fathers or anyone mentoring others:

Encourage the young men to be self-controlled. In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us. [Titus 2:6-8. NIV]

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