Blessed is the father who spends time with his child,
for he shall reap a garden of remembrances.
Blessed is the father who gives consolation to his child’s minor misfortunes,
for he will be called on for great things in life.
Blessed is the father who is proud of his child,
for he shall have a child who is proud of his father.
Blessed is the father who imparts love,
for his child will give love.
Blessed is the father who is gentle with his child,
for he will have a child who can turn away wrath.
Blessed is the father who listens to his child,
for he shall be rewarded with the trust of his child.
Blessed is the father who has patience with his child,
for patience will be bestowed on him.
Blessed is the father who shows mercy to his child,
for he shall experience mercy.
Blessed is the father who does not exasperate his child,
for he shall receive compassion.
Blessed is the father who shall accept the unintentional insults of a developing child,
for he shall know the glory of fatherhood.

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Photo by Bruno Mendes.