As men, we are influencing those around us in many ways. No influence is greater than the one that we have on the children in our lives. Fathers, grandfathers, or uncles; we are impacting the children around us. We step into their lives as mentors, sometimes formally and sometimes just by being around.
We want to use this influence to create memories and help young people build healthy relationships. We tend to try to plan out all these great opportunities. Sometimes our efforts hit the mark, but sometimes times we miss. I’d like to propose an idea which may bring a whole new impact on the time you have with the young people in your life. Turn the tables. Let them take control of what your time together looks like.
Encourage them to be creative. Give them a clean pallet to paint their desires for the two of you. It can be outrageous, funny, something you’ve never done or even something more formal. It is up to them, and you agree to cooperate unconditionally, no matter how ridiculous it may seem.
As men and mentors, so many of us get caught up in needing to be in control. It’s in our DNA. As the adult, be willing to let go and have fun. Think of it as the feeling of riding a roller coaster. You get a little anxious about the drop but you throw your hands in the air as the coaster goes down the hill. You get to experience the fun by letting go. When you do you will find a great memory of how it felt, enjoying the rest of the ride.
Men, let go and turn the tables. It is a good thing.
Ric Basso
Committee Chair
A Man IN Action
Interested in writing for Men IN Action?
Each month our emails feature a Man IN Action from our community. If you are interested in writing a piece for our monthly correspondence click here.
Celebrate Christmas in July with us!
You can provide safety and essentials to families fleeing abuse. Help us make sure families at Sheltering Wings have what they need through the second half of the year!
Here’s how YOU can help: Give. Gather. Share.
