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Fathers
Are Not Always Heroes
(But They Can Be)
…in the interest of
fathers and their children
By
Useni Eugene Perkins
_____________________________________________________________
Fathers are not
always heroes
(but they can be)
when committed to
nurturing their children
and providing them
unconditional love
without making
excuses
even during
difficult times.
Fathers are not
always heroes
(but they can be)
when speaking out
against injustices
that stifle their
children’s potential
from reaching the
uncharted heights
they are capable of
achieving.
Fathers are not
always heroes
(but they can be)
when refusing to
conform
to the media
stereotypes
that portray them as
deadbeats
and irresponsible
men without passion.
Fathers are not
always heroes
(but they can be)
despite being
descendants of slavery
that crippled their
ancestral families
and denied them the
bountiful joy
of expressing true
fatherhood.
Fathers are not
always heroes
(but they can be)
even though raising
children
in a bitter sweet
world
can be an awesome
responsibility
that challenges the
fiber of their manhood.
Fathers are not
always heroes
(but they can be)
when encouraging
their children
to study, be
obedient and respect elders
while teaching them
to appreciate
the sanctity of
human life.
Fathers are not
always heroes
(but they can be)
when embracing God’s
teachings
and striving to be
role models
that will motivate
and enhance
the lives of their
children.
Fathers are not
always heroes
(but they can be)
when believing their
children
are precious jewels
of the universe
that should be
protected and cherished
even if fathers must
sacrifice
their lives trying
to save them.
(This poem was
written in memory of a father who sacrificed his life to save
others, including
his two children.)
Useni Eugene Perkins
has worked with Black youth for over forty-five years in many
capacities. He recently directed the Family Life Center at Chicago State
University and now serves as President of the Association for the
Positive Development of Black Youth and has been recognized as one of
the pioneers of the Rites of Passage movement. He also serves as a
Special Consultant to the National Association of Former Foster Care
Children of America, Inc.
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