You may not always realize it, but your presence matters
This article is brought to you by the Kokomo Family YMCA. In our Youth Sports program, we’ve seen kids walk in nervous and walk out high-fiving teammates they just met. That’s the magic of youth sports at the Y! Don’t miss out on registering your kid for our Fall sessions, with a full line-up to choose from.
For us, it’s not just about the game. It’s about the friendships, the confidence, and the joy that come with being part of a team. Our youth sports programs are designed to help kids build confidence, character, and connection, all while learning the fundamentals. Youth Sports Programs will start in November. Our fall line-up includes Sports Medley, Little Dribblers, Indoor Centipede Soccer, and Youth Volleyball. Registration is now open: https://operations.daxko.com/Online/5014/ProgramsV2/Home.mvc
Keep up the great work, dads! I just wanted to help get your week started off on a positive note by simply telling you, good job! I know you don’t hear it enough, and I wanted to be a voice that takes a moment to congratulate you for being just who you are.
And when I say dads, I’m not just talking about biological fathers. I’m talking about godfathers, grandfathers who have stepped into the role of dad, stepdads, and even gentlemen who don’t have children of their own but choose to be present in the lives of young men and women who need a father figure.
You are making a difference.
You may not always realize it, but your presence matters. You are someone who inspires. You give that young man or young woman something to strive for, something to think about, and someone to look up to. You spend time with them when others may not. You show up when it matters. You give them hope through your example, and sometimes, without even knowing it, you help them see possibilities they never thought existed.
When you share your dreams, your experiences, and even your struggles, you help them realize that they can dream, too. You show them that life is not always easy, but with faith, determination, and the willingness to keep moving forward, there is always something worth pursuing.
And you know what? Some of you never had that example yourselves. You grew up without the guidance, encouragement, or fatherly love you needed. But instead of allowing what was missing in your own life to define you, you made a decision to become what you never had. You became the example you once needed.
Now, that’s something to celebrate.
Do you get everything right? Probably not. None of us do. But being present, being willing to learn, and continuing to show up can mean more than you will ever know. Sometimes, the seeds you plant today will not produce fruit until years down the road. But keep on planting.
To every man who is making an intentional effort to encourage, guide, protect, teach, and love the next generation, thank you. Be encouraged, and keep up the great work, dads!