Our final important phrase that all kids need to hear from Dad is, “I’m sorry.” This is a tough one for lots of dads out there but this phrase can teach children a lot about what it means to be strong. While having to apologize to anyone can make us cringe, apologizing to a child might seem unnecessary or weak. We’re the adult, right? Why should we apologize to a child? Great question.
Guys, we are all going to make mistakes with our children. None of us are perfect so there will be plenty of opportunities for us to learn to apologize. When we screw up, remember this. Even though it’s obvious we’ve made a mistake, it’s likely our son or daughter won’t mention it. They’re probably not sure how to bring it up or might feel they don’t have permission to. They look up to us, after all. They expect us to point out their mistakes and correct them, but they aren’t sure they should do the same.
The fact that our kids look up to us is actually a great reason for us to apologize. When they see dad choosing to apologize for a mistake, it teaches that apologizing is the right thing to do, not just something we’re forced to do when caught. Dad, in your kid’s eyes you are powerful. No one can make dad do anything! But, dad apologized. He chose to say he was sorry…. to me. A kid. That’s big. That’s something they notice and something they’ll remember.
What do they learn from your apology? They learn that apologizing isn’t weak. It takes strength to apologize. It’s much easier to argue your reasons for the mistake or just ignore the event and hope it fades from memory. A strong person apologizes for his mistake because he wants to make things right. Our children learn that strong people use their power for the good of others and know how to be humble. When “powerful dad” gets down on his knees to look into his 6 year old daughter’s eyes and ask forgiveness for missing her soccer game, he teaches her that a real man is kind, gentle, and humble, not defensive and ignorant to the feelings of those around him. Don’t think that she won’t carry those expectations into future relationships.
Our willingness to apologize can go a long way in creating strong relationships and building confident kids. When you take time to recognize your mistake and make amends, your children will feel more valued and loved by the most important man in their life. Dad.
CHALLENGE
Is there something you need to apologize to your child for? If so, make a point to do it. Be sincere and humble – no excuses. Just a simple, “I’m sorry”.
SCRIPTURES
Ephesians 4:3
Proverbs 15:1
Hebrews 12:14
EQUIPPING MEN TO LIVE INTENTIONAL LIVES 