Episode 55: 7 Divine Traits All Dads (and Moms) Can Develop
This week it is my absolute privilege to honor a man who is one of my hugest heroes -- my dad.
Given that he lived for almost a century, it is impossible to pay tribute to all the ways my dad has influenced me, my husband, and my children for good. There’s just not enough time. And in truth, while I do want to honor my dad in this special Father’s Day episode, I know the very thought would make him extremely uncomfortable.
My mom, Bobbye, my dad, Dan (Andrew), and me at my wedding to Ron, August 10, 2002
I’ve decided, instead, to share with you 7 Divine Traits All Dads (and Moms) Can Develop, and in doing so, I hope to paint a portrait for you of the kind of dad my father was.
As I begin this episode, I know there are listeners out there who have strained relationships with their father. I know there are fathers who exercise unrighteous dominion over their families. Who are verbally, emotionally, or physically abusive. And I know me sharing these 8 traits will not help to fix those relationships. Wouldn’t it be marvelous if it could?
I, in no way, want to minimize the harmful effects of coming from a home with abusive parents. My heart goes out to you and my spirit aches for you. This life is hard enough without the added damage caused by unhealthy or harmful family relationships. I do know there is help available, and I encourage you not to put off seeking that help. Your RS president and/or EQ president should be able to assist you in finding the best resources for your specific needs. If you are listening today and are not a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, this help is available to you as well. Find someone in your neighborhood who belongs to the LDS church, and ask them to help you connect with the appropriate church leader so you can know what resources are available.
7 Divine Traits
1. Knowledge & Resourcefulness
2. Sense of Humor
3. Being Present--physically, mentally, emotionally Available
4. Compassion & Forgiveness
5. Consistency in Setting Clear Boundaries
6. Love For Spouse
7. Know Your Children
Do One Thing
Choose one of the 7 divine traits and focus on creating a plan that will help you develop it. If you're already pretty good at it, then crank it up a notch by raising the bar a little.
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Check out previous episodes of "Let's Get Edified"