Friday, February 18, 2011

Everyone needs community--even dads!

We’re getting ready to go on our cruise and by the time this is posted, we will be out in the Caribbean somewhere basking in the sun and each other’s company.  I’m heading out on The Consciously Parenting Project’s first cruise retreat with some of the most amazing parents- ever.  We haven’t left the port yet as I’m writing this, yet something interesting has been happening with my husband.  You see, some people that I met in person over a year ago needed a place to stay before the cruise.  My husband agreed that they could stay, but I could tell he wasn’t really excited about it.  But being the good husband that he is, he humored me and took my word for it that he would like them.  What has happened since they arrived?  My husband has found a friend.

My friend and I were reflecting on this very topic last night.  Moms just do what they have to do, in general, to find other moms to talk to and share their lives.  Dads have it rough.  It seems that they have to find another reason to get together- like drinking beer or something.  But what has been happening here in my house when two dads were together in the same room has been heartwarming and truly what everyone has been needing.

I’m really excited to see how all the families come together this weekend on the Carnival Inspiration, especially if we haven’t even made it to port and there is already this much connection.  We have several dads who are coming along with their families or their wives, so I can’t wait to see how they are able to connect with each other.  They probably aren’t going to expect this to be good for them, too.

If you’re a dad, how do you connect with other dads?  If you’re a mom, how does your husband connect with other dads?  Have any positive stories to share?  I’d love to hear them.  Next week, I’ll give you an update about how things went on the cruise for the moms, dads, and kids who took a voyage on the Carnival Inspiration!

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

This post really warmed my heart, gave me goosebumps. I've noticed the same about my hubby, he doesn't really connect until he is "stuck" in the same room with another dad, then it's like they're "old buddies". I look forward to hearing about the connections that were made on the cruise, I am so getting that life and relationships is all about the connecting/connection. Thanks for sharing, Rebecca. Joyfully, Sofia

the Villager said...

Thank you so much for posting. I am excited for all of you about the connections you'll be making, and I am clear that I want that opportunity, too! I found out about the cruise too late to take us, but I'm confident that there will be more opportunities to gather and enjoy the CP community in the future, and looking forward to hearing more about the cruise. Enjoy it!!

Unknown said...

Great husbands certainly need guy friends and they often don't know it. I can definately identify with Rebecca's story. Dads become dads and often walk away from old freinds especially when they have no children. I think Dads don't talk and then they assume other Dads aren't feeling the same which turns into a little isolation. It is so much fun to see my husband share his kid stories as I then see other Dads light up with their own. Have a wonderful time Rebecca and enjoy your family and new freinds. Aloha

Zion Lights said...

I am forever introducing my hubby to other dads, in the hope that they'll bond. He definitely needs 'guy friends', but he doesn't have various parenting groups he can attend, like I do. (Bf groups, etc.) Good post x
Zion
http://mammasforvictory.blogspot.com