Father's Day!

PATRICK J. WOOD

Publisher

Author of “Reflections” a new book now available on Amazon

Dear Reader,

Father’s Day is just around the corner—a perfect time to reflect on the men who raised us, guided us, and helped shape who we are. Fathers, notably, were there at the very beginning of our lives—and have hopefully stood by us ever since. Everyone needs a good father. A good father takes his responsibilities seriously, especially the profound responsibility of raising children.

We can learn so much from a good father. He teaches, he walks with us through the victories and tribulations of life. He is there when we need him most.

I remember when I was heading off to school, I asked my father for advice I could carry with me. He shared something timeless—essentially the advice Polonius gives his son Laertes in Shakespeare’s *Hamlet*: “To thine own self be true, and it must follow, as the night the day, thou canst not then be false to any man.” Simple words that carry profound wisdom: authenticity and integrity serve as the foundation for a life well-lived.

The best fathers provide both roots and wings—stability to know where home is and confidence to venture into the world. They teach us to face challenges with courage, to treat others with respect, and to understand that character matters more than achievement.

My father taught me that listening is often more important than speaking, that keeping promises builds trust that no amount of explanation can restore once broken, and that showing up—consistently and reliably—speaks volumes about what we truly value.

To all the fathers who show up day after day, who balance guidance with freedom, who demonstrate love through both words and actions—thank you. Your legacy lives on in the lives you’ve touched and the values you’ve instilled.