Cynthia L. Dabo

Children grow up so fast – and I can’t imagine missing one moment. How does anyone explain being an absent parent?

A campaign was broadcast on television that stole my attention. I was fixated for the entire minute. I watched a husky man out in the yard shouting cheers. At first glance, you think it odd for this ‘macho’ man to be singing with hands gesturing. However, as the commercial continues, you realize he is actually helping his six- to seven-year-old daughter rehearse her cheers.

The National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse has set out to target fathers to become active participants in their children’s lives. This commercial delivered its message to the target at the same time touching individuals emotionally. The campaign made me laugh and warmed my heart.

It is very important that a father is a part of his child’s life. Research shows that 40% of American households are without a father, causing many children to live their lives at or below the poverty line. Further research shows higher rates of teenage pregnancy, criminal activity and school dropouts among this group.

Although my parents are divorced, my father has always been there for me. Dad moved back to his hometown in North Carolina, Mom and I stayed in New York. Even though we were 500 miles apart, my father remained a positive force in my life and I spent all my summer vacations with him. He taught me to ride my first bike and taught me how to ride a horse.

I hold those memories dearly and close to my heart even more so today, now that he’s gone.

To find out more information about National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse, visit http://fatherhood.gov/.
Also if you would like to view the Cheerleading Dad campaign, visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eb2iWSae5HE.

How do you feel about this type of public service promotion?

Graphic Credit:
animationfactory.com