Being a father can be an eye opening experience. When Dr Matthew Allen’s daughter was born, it was like he was truly born into being a man. His wife had already given birth to three sons, one at a birth center, another at home with midwives. For their third son, she gave birth at home with just her family, an experience he describes as “deeply humbling.” But when his daughter was born, something clicked for him. He realized he had a greater responsibility to his family. To live up to that new responsibility, though, he also had to expand the support he gave to the community. He started a monthly men’s group at his office. He and his friends were surprised that they weren’t the only ones struggling with addictions and overwhelming emotions. They found out that it takes skill to be a man, and it also takes self-reflection, and it requires emotional vulnerability. They helped each other, and in turn they were better able to help their children and wives. Read the full article for his inspiring story, and learn how he was able to better bring strength and stability to the home for his little girl.
Everyone benefits from slowing down and listening to what their hearts and bodies are telling them. It can be tricky to find time to do that, but when we make the effort, we usually come away with a much clearer idea of what we can do not only for ourselves, but also for our families, friends, and larger communities read more