Saturday, May 31, 1997

Abilene sets a time for saluting fathers

By Earnest Merritt / Guest columnist

On June 15, our nation will once again celebrate Father's Day. I have always been impressed with the attention that is given to mothers on Mother's Day. I believe that this is a clear indication of how much we appreciate the nurturing, sacrifice, love, care and guidance for which most mothers are known.

Perhaps this is also an indication of what we ideally believe motherhood to be. But what about fathers?

Do we have an ideal when it comes to fathers, and if we do, how is that ideal promoted?

So often we hear that absent fathers are the cause of the deterioration of the family. We hear that it is the absence of fathers that has given rise to gang activities, juvenile crimes, drug abuse and an array of other social ills. It almost seems as though a good father is hard to find.

Mayor Gary McCaleb has issued to the city "A Call for Fathers" on Father's Day, June 15, from 7-8 a.m. at the Abilene Civic Center. This is a time when we, as fathers, will make a statement by our presence that we are indeed concerned for our families, our community and our society.

This is the time when the fathers in our community will issue a wake-up call to society, to wake up and see we are here, that we do care and that we are making a difference.

It is time that our nation focuses on fathers who are present in the family; it is time that we encourage fathers who take care of children who are not their own; it is time that we commend fathers who are committed to their children; it is time that we commend fathers who are dedicated to service and servanthood.

It is time that we focus on the contributions of fathers.

I believe there are more men who are striving to be the ideal father than those who fit the description of the "deadbeat father."

As a Christian father, I believe men can expect to experience some failures. Even though the apostles enjoyed success in their mission, they also experienced some failures - particularly during Jesus' arrest, trial and crucifixion when all the disciples deserted Him and fled.

As I understand it, Jesus didn't reprimand them for what they didn't do. Instead, Jesus met privately with them several times before His ascension and assured them that they were still His men.

Perhaps now is the time for our community and our country to spend less time reprimanding men and more time meeting privately and encouraging them. Then society must take demands off their time and encourage them to spend time with their families and children.

I salute fathers - especially those who spend time with their children to watch a football or basketball game, or to attend a child's game.

I salute fathers - especially those who pray for children, their own and others. I salute fathers who make children their priority.

If we salute fathers, perhaps sons will grow up to be good fathers, and daughters will grow up to marry good men.

Earnest Merritt is assistant to the Abilene city manager for youth services.