Fathers, mothers

In the June 12 issue of The Alabama Baptist, there was an article on page 7 titled “Seven habits of highly effective fathers.” The article described ways men can be better fathers. It said that highly effective fathers instill faith, show their love, make children a priority, nurture their children’s dreams, teach, apologize and can be counted on. The message for this Father’s Day 2008, whether intentional or not, seems to be “Do a better job, fathers.”

In the May 8 issue of The Alabama Baptist, there was an article on page 2 titled “The Centennial Anniversary of Mother’s Day” and another article on page 5 titled “Maintaining the tradition: Mother’s Day founder envisioned time spent together.” These two articles simply celebrated Mother’s Day without giving instructions on how women can be better mothers.

A critical need in families today is biblical parenting; however, I don’t think it was appropriate to publish an article on parenting directed only at fathers during Father’s Day. On Father’s Day, we’re supposed to honor fathers, not chastise them. I suggest you save the parenting advice for another time and include both mothers and fathers when you do.

Brian Speer
Huntsville, Ala.