What does Fathers Day mean to you? Is it a day of joy or a day of sadness? Does it make you hopeful of tomorrow or remind you of the pain of yesteryear?

Around the world Fathers Day is celebrated in many different ways from a city-wide half marathon where sons and daughters race with their fathers, followed by a large feast in Mexico to the tradition of giving fathers and grandfathers a Canna flower in Thailand to a paid day off public holiday in Germany. Meanwhile , here in the good ole United States we partake in family get-togethers, barbecues, gift-giving, and spending time with loved ones.

While Fathers Day is special and loved by many, it is also a stark reminder for many, of days and years not spent with a father. As many celebrate, many more struggle with questions, most of which start with the premise, Why?

Why did my father leave? Why did he not love me? Why was I not enough? And these are just a few. The absence of a father leaves a void in the lives of so many that for the remainder of their years, they chase one idea after the next, trying to fill the void. That’s right, an absent dad creates a void in his children. Why? Because a father’s love is not only desired, it’s critical.

The love of a father can build and strengthen what otherwise could have been chaos and destruction; the love of a father breeds value and worth in his children; and the love of a father says you matter and I’d do anything for you.

So Dad, if  you think you don’t matter, think otherwise.

Dad, Moms need you.

Dad, your children need you.

Dad, our communities need you.

Today, enjoy your day. Tomorrow it’s back to business.