In April, commercials were filled with jewelry ads reminding everyone to buy gifts for Mother’s Day. When Father’s Day rolls around, fathers rarely get the same recognition. And when they do appear in commercials, it’s usually a hardware store ad telling them to buy a grill.
On Father’s Day, fathers shouldn’t be standing over a grill cooking. They should have their feet up, relaxing, and being appreciated by the family they work so hard to provide for. Many men work two and three jobs to keep a roof over their family’s heads, food on the table, and bills paid, only to be overlooked, disrespected, or treated as if their sacrifices are simply expected.
June is also Men’s Health Month, yet many people don’t even know it exists. That says a lot about how normalized it has become to ignore the struggles, sacrifices, and well-being of men. To all the fathers, husbands, sons, brothers, and hardworking men out there: if nobody has told you lately, you are appreciated. You are valued. Your sacrifices matter. Your presence matters. And the people who love you are blessed to have you.