Coach's Corner

Celebrating Imperfect Fathers

One of the most pivotal and influential relationships a person can have is a relationship with a father. Fathers in many ways help shape the people we are as individuals today. Unfortunately, the father figure in many people's lives is a far cry from the ideal Bill Cosby type.

When I think of Fathers I obviously can't help but think of my own father. Personally, I can honestly say my father has been a mentor to me. I remember many trips to McDonald's where dad would bring me out to see Ronald McDonald and friends. It was a highlight for me. It became such a great tradition that I often had a particular way of laying out all the contents of my Happy Meal. The fries needed to be placed on a certain angle with the cheeseburger in the middle, and juice on the side (of course lest I forget my toy laid secure on my lap). It was during a particular visit to the local McDonald's where my dad taught me a most life-changing principle. As I sat at the table with all contents in their designated spot my dad leaned over and took one of my fries. As I watched my dad do this with utter horror I blurted out, "Dad, those are MY fries!" It was at this point that dad gently began to explain to me that if he had not gone to the counter and bought those fries for me I would not have any to enjoy. This lesson has followed me to this day. All that I have and own is really not mine at all, in fact its all the Lord's. The Lord is gracious enough to let me manage His resources.

As influential as my relationship with my dad has been it has not always been a perfect one. My dad many times was tied up at work. I honestly don't remember one soccer game in which my dad stayed to watch. I also remember many birthdays that went by with dad out of town. As much as these negative experiences affected me, I do remember my dad sitting me down once I myself began to have my own kids. My imperfect dad, now grandpa, apologized for the times he was not around and made other things a priority over me. He admonished me not to do the same with my kids, a lesson I am internalizing. However, the greatest lesson he taught me on this day was not so much to spend time with my kids but to apologize when as a dad I miss the mark.

Let's face it - fathers are imperfect beings. At times I hit God’s best with the way I act and react towards my kids, but on other days, I miserably fail. If there is one thing I have learned as a young father it is to admit my mistakes, and even at times utter the words "I'm Sorry." Once I have uttered those words I need to move on and make sure I do it right the next time!

Pastor Joel Spiridigliozzi

Posted May 27, 2007