Juneissue

So let’s just get right to it! It’s time for Father’s Day and there doesn’t seem to be any excitement in the air. How unfortunate. How did we get here? As a single solo parent, I’m very familiar with all the reasons why confetti might not get tossed, however, there are just as many reasons why the music should be turned all the way up and grills around the world should be lit and filling the air with the smell of good times to be had!

So it’s very clear that the face of fatherhood has evolved over the years so here’s ten “father figures” we can roll the red carpet out for this whole month: 1. The neighborhood barber who makes sure his shop is a safe place for young boys and men to share conversation and guidance 2. The man who doesn’t have any kids of his own but is available for being a mentor 3. The surrogate dad who is present for his child’s friends who may not have an active dad 4. Male friends that rally around fatherless children and become the world’s greatest uncles 5. Coaches (and not just sports) who understand and accept the role they play in instilling character traits 6. Grandfathers who are pulling double duty 7. Stepfathers who adopt the children of their new wife without a second thought 8. Big brothers who care for their younger siblings 9. Fraternities who take their mission seriously by enriching and uplifting the lives of young boys and girls without a father in their lives 10. That man who has ALWAYS taken care of his children and never needed a reason to do so whether he’s head of household or living separately It’s all there and I’m sure you have plenty of these characteristics in your community! I know I do! There may be 1 man who possesses more than 5 of these traits! Shouldn’t we really celebrate?! Well we are! We won’t let the few who won’t overshadow the many who DO! As a matter fact, we invite those who haven’t been there to fellowship and be around a support system that will help you find your way back to your rightful place on your child’s life.

Visit www.geechiegurlsay.Blogspot.com to stay connected for upcoming events celebrating The Year of the Gentleman!

I want to say HAPPY FATHER’S DAY to 1-10 and to my father Walter “Al” Alcox, Sr. What you’ve shown me over the years is the true value of a hard day’s work, how to take care of each other, how to be a supportive woman instead of an enabler and most importantly how I should be treated as a woman. Thank you for being there for me and your grandson, Nicholas! I love you and celebrate you everyday!