Father Knows Best - An Interview with Fathers Around the Office
Being a father is more than just a title, it is a lifelong commitment to your child with love, support, and great memories throughout. With Father’s Day happening this month, I spoke to Robb, Jason, Tyler, and Jule to get their input on what being a father truly means to them. Their answers show the joy, wisdom, and lessons that are taught from being a dad. While some in the office have children that were just born, to others that are out of college and have moved out of the nest, their reflections provide a wide range of what fatherhood looks like to all ages.
The Rewards of Being a Dad
For each of these fathers, the rewards of fatherhood come in different forms. Robb finds his greatest joy in having a family to share life’s highs and lows. Jason speaks of an unbreakable bond and an evolving connection that gives every moment real meaning. Tyler lights up when he sees the look in his child’s eyes as they conquer new challenges, and Jule treasures watching his children grow and hit their milestones. Each experience reminds everyone that a life with one’s children is irreplaceable.
Hard-Earned Lessons
Fatherhood teaches through both smiles and setbacks. Robb learned that true patience isn’t always easy, but that it’s a daily discipline. Jason discovered that, though life has no manual, being present matters more than knowing all the answers. Tyler has come to understand that life happens incredibly fast and that the small, everyday moments deserve our appreciation. Jule emphasizes that the journey of raising children requires learning patience and perseverance. These lessons, though challenging, shape fathers into the providers that kids need.
Wisdom From Fathers Before
A common thread throughout these interviews is the influence of the dads who came before. Robb recalls his father’s strong example of leadership. Jason cherishes his dad’s deep faith and commitment to family, a standard he continually strives to meet. Tyler was taught by his father that hard work opens every door, a lesson that resonates in his daily life. Jule holds onto the timeless advice from his father that there are only two things one can always give: a good education and plenty of love. Such generational insights guide their every decision, reinforcing that legacy is an integral part of fatherhood.
Lessons to Live By
What do these fathers hope their children carry with them into the future? Robb’s wish is simple yet impactful: “Do right! And determine what is right and what is wrong.” Jason believes that kindness, especially in moments unseen by others, is the true measure of character. Tyler encourages his children to break free from self-imposed limits, knowing that sometimes the hard-earned victories mean the most. And Jule advises his kids never to give up and that each setback is just a setup for a greater comeback. Their words remind us that the values instilled in early life are apparent through every success and failure.
The Reality of Fatherhood
Beyond the rewards and lessons, these fathers offer a window into the truth of being a dad. Robb reminds us that fatherhood is a lifelong commitment, not a role taken on only when convenient. Jason notes that being a father isn’t about having all the answers, it’s about showing up wholeheartedly, every day. Tyler frames fatherhood as an incredible gift and privilege that deserves to be cherished and never taken for granted. And Jule speaks about how much time truly goes into being a father, but that it is all worth it.
Advice for First-Time Fathers
For those new to this journey, the guidance from seasoned dads comes as genuine and helpful advice. Robb offers a word of encouragement that mistakes are part of the process. Learn, grow, and let faith guide you. Jason emphasizes the importance of connection and to be present, listen intently, and love unconditionally. Tyler’s experience teaches that stepping into fatherhood can shift you from thinking solely about oneself, to thinking about others. Jule leaves first-time dads with a valuable reminder: “The days are long, but the years are short.” Savor every moment with your children.
A Personal Transformation
The journey into fatherhood is transformative. While Robb finds great satisfaction in seeing his children mature into responsible adults, Jason acknowledges that becoming a father reshaped his entire outlook from a focus on himself to prioritizing his family. Tyler now makes every decision by considering its impact on his loved ones, and Jule embraces every new chapter of fatherhood, whether it brings more gray hairs or many drives to soccer and basketball games. Their stories stand as proof that fatherhood is not only a role but a personal evolution.
Conclusion
Fatherhood is a lifelong commitment, shaped by love, patience, and the wisdom passed down through generations. From the joys of watching children grow to the lessons learned through challenges, every moment adds to the journey. The fathers here have shared their reflections, proving that while no two experiences are exactly alike, the heart of fatherhood remains the same: showing up, embracing change, and leaving a lasting legacy of love and guidance.
