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Lessons Learned and Unspoken Emotions: Being a Better Father

Writer's picture: Manuel AragonManuel Aragon

Updated: Jan 19

Becoming a father is a life-changing experience. It's not just a role; it’s a profound walk filled with tears, laughter, and invaluable lessons. For me, this has sparked a relentless desire to be the best father I can be. Growing up in unstable circumstances has driven me to create a nurturing environment for my son, one filled with love, stability, and guidance.


As I watch my three-year-old son play, I am reminded of his upcoming fourth birthday less than a month out—a significant milestone. These early years are fleeting and serve as a joyful exploration and a bittersweet reminder of my own childhood. Each development stage brings waves of emotions, challenges, and chances to connect with him on a deeper level.


Changing My Mindset

Growing up amidst chaos left me with self-doubt and negativity. As a father, I realized I needed to confront my past and shift my mindset toward a more positive, nurturing one. I learned that I can choose a different path for my son, one rooted in love and understanding.


This transition didn’t happen overnight. It required recognizing and discarding ingrained beliefs and fears. It's still adapt and learn but with each step forward, I felt a deepening sense of safety for my son—a sense of security that I yearned for during my own childhood. I am not just a product of my upbringing; I am actively shaping my sons future.


This change has reshaped how I interact with my son. I strive to build a home filled with love and respect, embracing learning and growth.


Adapting to My Son's Learning Journey

My son is a little adventurer. It feels like we’re on an exploration together, and I treasure the responsibility of encouraging his natural curiosity. Every day brings new lessons, from counting candies to identifying animals at the zoo. Watching him explain to me what a rollie pollie is and how he felt bad when he tossed it across the porch.


Foundational skills blossom during these early years. A simple outing can lead to engaging experiences—like counting ducks at the pond or calling out colors at the playground. The joy on his face when he grasps a new concept is a reminder that learning is about creativity as much as academics. He is still so fragile and blind to the aches and pains of this cruel world.


To foster this learning environment, I focus on being present and attentive. It’s important not just to offer structured activities but also to let him share his ideas and guide our learning adventures. Instead of dictating what he should know, I walk beside him, encouraging exploration on his own terms.


Balancing Play and Discipline

Navigating parenthood is a careful balance of joy and discipline. It's easy to swing too far in one direction or the other. I understand that discipline is not just about correction but is also about teaching responsibility and understanding the consequences in a loving way.


I actively involve my son in discussions about why we establish certain boundaries. For instance, when he jumps on the couch, we have conversations about safety. Acknowledging his emotions helps deepen our connection and makes it easier for him to grasp why certain behaviors may not be appropriate.


When I see him frustrated—like when a block tower collapses—I recall my own childhood frustrations. I respond with compassion, validating his feelings while instilling resilience. Together, we rebuild those towers, which teaches him perseverance and problem-solving. I watched him read a book of pictures adapting quickly to the animals he is calling out in awe at his expertise.


The Power of Connection

Reflecting on my childhood makes me realize the importance of building connections. Genuine relationships matter, and my bond with my son is the core of my parenting. I’ve learned to be fully present—emotionally and physically. I may not be present 24 hours a day but I cherish every minute I get to have him by my side.


From reading bedtime stories to spontaneous dance parties in the living room, every interaction strengthens our bond. Being engaged allows my son to express himself fully. I see that these moments encourage him to explore his feelings and interests openly.


This strong connection enables me to model kindness and empathy. On tough days, I can show vulnerability, teaching him that it’s okay to feel emotions, even the difficult ones. These lessons will matter far more than academic achievements.


Learning from Mistakes

Parenthood doesn’t come with clear instructions. There are days when I falter or struggle with challenges. However, I remind myself that mistakes are not failures but essential parts of the journey. Noting in life is perfect but its all perspective.


Acknowledging my mistakes with my son creates a space to teach accountability. I want him to understand that errors are a chance to learn. I can see the spark of understanding in his eyes, and it’s clear he is absorbing these valuable lessons.


It’s important to step back and allow him to navigate his own challenges. Encouraging him to problem-solve fosters independence and resilience—skills he will carry with him for life.


Creating Lasting Memories

As my son nears four, I often ponder the memories we’re building together. I want each moment—no matter how small—to carry special meaning. Life is about weaving love and laughter into our everyday experiences. There is no road map to right or wrong only what we develop over our own personal experiences.


From Legos, coloring to cleanup dance sessions, I hope he remembers the warmth of our home and the joy we share. I will always cherish brushing his teeth to a mickey mouse song and bargaining cheese and crackers to get in bed on time. These memories can serve as guiding lights for him, even as life changes around us.


Eye-level view of a colorful children's playroom with toys scattered around

Looking Ahead

As I enjoy these moments with my son, I realize their significance. While I may lack a perfect guide to fatherhood, I am growing alongside him. The experiences we share today will shape the man he becomes. I focus on instilling values like compassion, a love for learning, and resilience.


With each new day comes an opportunity for learning, laughter, and love. I embrace every joy and challenge, knowing that I learn from him just as he learns from me. Together, we’re defining what it means to be a family, crafting a legacy filled with enduring love.


My journey as a father, marked by both struggles and happiness, leads me to look towards a brighter future. I am dedicated to raising a son who thrives in an environment of possibility, empowerment, and unconditional love.


Embracing the Journey

Fatherhood is a continuous adventure filled with growth, love, and discovery. Each moment influences not only my son’s life but mine as well. I feel grateful for the chance to teach him the lessons I wished to learn as a child.


We may stumble, we will laugh, and together, we will grow. In nurturing his spirit and addressing unspoken emotions, I see a hopeful future for both of us as a family. He's healthy, strong and smart and what more can I ask for as a parent?


Close-up view of a book with colorful pictures sitting on a child's lap

In the beautiful chaos of parenthood, profound beauty awaits discovery. Every heartbeat, every shared moment, contributes to his priceless journey. This little boy has changed my view on life in ways I never thought possible. Parent to parent, cherish those tiny moments that foster real change. That's the reason why I'm so driven. Making a path of untapped potential for this little boy I'm so soo blessed to call my son. That's the real beauty of life...

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