Where have all the fathers gone
Long time passing
Where have all the fathers gone
Long time ago
Where have all the fathers gone
Gone bout dem business everyone
When will they ever learn?
When will they ever learn?

On Sunday June 15, 2008 many deserving dads were showered with praises and good wishes as they were recognized for their commitment to fatherhood. Others however held their heads down in shame as they have not been living up to their responsibilities as fathers. The truth is many mothers stepped forward and took a bow on Father’s Day for they have been the sole support for their children. They would tell you that they have to play the role of mother and father to their child (ren).

Too many men feel that it is alright to impregnate all the women they come in contact with, have these children and then walk away from them. Some have even gone as far as to deny paternity even though they know full well that they are indeed the father( not jacket ) as the resemblance alone is confirmation. Some have even said that if they can’t continue in a sexual relationship with the mother of the child they will not support the child.

There are another set that have suddenly found their age paper and walk out of their marriage of 20 years leaving the wife to look after the children all by herself while he profiles with the young girl from the office at the night clubs.

If you think the scenarios described above is bad what about the man who impregnates the woman and orders her to terminate the pregnancy, failing which he would not support the child. How pathetic!

The mothers who find themselves in such an awkward position especially when Father’s Day come around and they have to try and explain to their male child why daddy is not around to play with him like the little boy next door, we the responsible dads out there feel your pain and encourage you to continue to do the best you can.

And then we wander as a society why have our boys turned to crime and violence; the absence of the fathers in the home is a major contributor.

To the fathers who take their little ones to the clinics or who have to cook, wash and iron clothes, attend PTA  and help with home work because the mothers are missing in action, Nuff Respect and Big Up as well.

A word to the dead beat dads, wise up and step up to the plate, play your part as a good dad, if not for your sake, do it for your child.

About the writer:
Wayne A. Powell is a Relationship Counsellor. He operates and Online counselling website which provides a convenient way for both client and therapist to engage with each other from home or office at a time that is expedient to them.You can email him at: [email protected]