Fatherhood

Fatherhood When did I become a father? Was it when I named you after your grandfathers? Was it when I added you to the family tree in my genealogy? Was it the night I scrubbed up to witness your birth? Was it when I saw my name on your birth certificate? Was it the day I learned I could live on 3 hours sleep? Was it when I told the pharmacist you were my son? Was it when I stopped calling my dog a boy? Was it when you smiled at me for the first time? Was it when I took you to the doctor and Mom stayed home? Was it when I first prayed for you? Was it when I cried tears of gratitude to God for the gift of you? Was it when I took you to church on Sunday? Was it when I showed you off at work? It was each moment here and then some. For being a father is not a destination but a journey. By Alan Stokes June 12, 2005 Note: This poem is intended to be added to as new experiences of fatherhood develop.

Jonathan Pronunciation: JAHN-a-thun Origin: Hebrew Meaning: "Gift of God." Notes: Related to Nathan Biblical: the son of King Saul; Jonathan was noted for his manliness, generosity, and unselfishness. He saved David's life when Saul would have killed him.