The birth of a child is one of the true miracles of nature. Suddenly, a new person exists in our world. They will need care, nurturing, and love. Hopefully they will get all in abundance. Sadly, some will not. What joys and pains will life hold in store? What surprises? Where will their journey take them?
Technically, becoming a father is an act of biology. But to live up to the full meaning and expectation of the word takes so much more. It should be a lifetime commitment. And the most important job title you will ever have.
On Father’s Day, it is important to remember that not every relationship between father and child is a source of happiness. We see all of you who feel this way. As fathers ourselves, we also know the many times and ways we have been imperfect. One of the secrets of parenthood is that you have to grow up along with your children. And that means making mistakes. Hopefully it is a path to progress and deepening relationships.
But at its best, being a father is to be a source of unconditional love forged through a lifetime of memories. We are featuring a pair of songs that help us capture the full meaning of this day. They are both reasons to smile.
We start with perhaps the best song ever written about the birth of a child — Stevie Wonder’s hit “Isn’t She Lovely.” It was written for his daughter Aisha. The original studio recording starts with the sound of a baby crying and has audio of Wonder giving Aisha a bath as a toddler. (You can hear that version here, with the bath beginning about 3:53).
Isn't she lovely
Isn't she wonderful
Isn't she precious
Less than one minute old
We love this performance at Chicago’s Hyde Park in front of throngs of people singing along. What a celebration of life.
We must also recognize that fathers come in many forms. Country superstar Brad Paisley’s first number one hit was “He Didn’t Have To Be.” It’s a collaboration with his longtime co-writer Kelley Lovelace about Lovelace’s relationship with his stepson. It’s not surprising the song resonated with millions, because it speaks to the ultimate meaning of fatherhood.
Happy Father’s Day to all of you in the Steady community. Thank you for your continuing support.
Well, if this is really you Dan, then TY. I today's times I am skeptical of a lot of things
Father's day Brad Paisley song was so touching it made me cry, and who can't absolutely love Stevie Wonder