Regardless of your views and beliefs about religion, Christmas is easily one of the most recognized holidays across the globe. So why is it that Easter, another very important religious holiday, can’t compete with the month-long extravaganza that is Christmas? Easter is clearly the runner-up to Christmas, whether we want to admit it or not.
Likewise, retailers and bloggers have done their best to whip shoppers into a frenzied state prior to this Father’s Day weekend. Despite these efforts, Father’s Day seems to be treated with far less reverence than Mother’s Day. It’s no secret that Mother’s Day gets a lot of attention, but I’ll argue that Father’s Day doesn’t typically receive the same level of interest. Why is that???
When May rolls around each year, florists, chocolatiers and the trendiest brunch joints extol the importance of showing profound gratitude for all mothers. The way Father’s Day is marketed and treated with far less seriousness. Even though I shouldn’t be complaining, this kind bugs me.
Yes, Gia’s dad, Craig, is a lovable buffoon at times, but he is by no means a dimwitted figure who couldn’t possibly be expected to be bothered with feeding or bathing our daughter without first being issued step-by-step instructions. (I am guilty of leaving him detailed lists of what to do with Gia, as well as checking in on them when they’re alone, but part of that is me just being me.)
It’s 2018 people. Men are more involved than ever in the day-to-day caring of their kids. There are countless mornings when I’m on my way to the gym, with Gia in tow and I see the neighborhood elementary school yard filled with fathers. They’re making sure their kids don’t jump into the street, holding backpacks and giving hugs and kisses before seeing their little ones off to school. My local parks overflow with dads who seem especially doting.
Just yesterday as I walked into my gym, a member who I’m friendly with asked, “Where’s the baby?” I kindly said that she was with daddy having fun until I got home and it was his turn to head to the gym for his workout. What I wanted to say was, “She’s home alone watching TV and making sure the house doesn’t burn down.” Come on – where do you think she is?? Why are fathers seen as the “babysitters” and moms are seen as the “real” parent?
In my humble opinion, it’s insulting to all moms and dads. Yes, there may or may not be more pressure and unrealistic expectations placed on mothers, but this message we are sending is that fathers are less devoted. That’s simply not the case. Dad’s are not an afterthought and it’s time we start acting like Father’s Day is just as important as Mother’s Day – because it is!
I’m sure all of us want the father figures in our lives to feel special on Father’s Day each and every year. In my family, the fathers are probably okay without a purchased gift, but I enjoy shopping for the occasion anyway. For some, Father’s Day may be more challenging to shop for than Mother’s Day, but remember, it’s not about the gift. Just like mom, dad wants to feel appreciated and be told that he’s doing a good job.
I am not the sole nurturer of my child because my husband plays a huge role in that as well. Craig, if you’re reading this, you are a fantastic father. Expressing my thanks publicly like this for all of your unconditional love will never be enough. Your contributions to this family exceed all expectations. You are our provider, protector and a strong individual that we all should try to emulate. Thank you for never shying away from wiping a dirty baby bum, or putting our daughter to sleep. I appreciate the selfless care and protection you provide to us on a daily basis. We love you beyond measure.
Here’s to all of the fathers out there. May all your days with your family be filled with love, but especially so this Father’s Day.
xo
Mrs. Bennigson 