The Goodfather

Last year I went to a Dead Prez concert at the Shattuck Downlow.  All three brothas on stage were wearing Godfather t-shirts, at least that is what I thought at first.  After about twenty minutes, it hit me – their shirts said Goodfather. There was an extra “o” that completely changed my perception of the shirt.

Ever since then I have been looking for the shirt and contemplating what it is to be a Goodfather.  I never found it even at Cafe Press so I had some made up with the intention of using the shirts for social change.  I know that people in general have an idea what a good father is.  On January 11th, I changed my Facebook status to “Dave is pondering what it means to a good father… What do you think is most important?” and got the following responses:

Rick Naylor at 2:57pm January 11

not being a father myself but I’ll chime in anyway…one word…direction.

Jan Cox Golovich at 3:54pm January 11

What does Melia think?

Ralph Oscar Grant Clark at 4:00pm January 11

Teacher, providor especially in the early years then partner friend confidant in the later years.

Gene Brockhoff at 9:25pm January 11

Modeling. I heard that from you once.

Betsy Totty Guerrero at 9:35pm January 11

Your time…listening with an open heart…honesty…safety...unconditional love…
P.S. Dave~I love the fact that you are putting this out there…very cool!
~B

Mariea Thornell Helfrich at 7:57am January 12

Undivided attention/complete engagement but I wouldn’t doubt you give her that!

Sue Blankman at 11:43am January 12

Cool of you to put that out there. Showing your love, patience, positive affirmation and encouraging/supporting her to do what she loves in life, not instilling fear, teaching her hard work, discipline, respect and kindness to others. And feeding her healthy! 😉

Cherry Pasamba at 8:40am January 15

It seems you’re already doing a wonderful job, Dave…  Unconditional love, an open mind, and lots of guidance and encouragement so Melia can be armed with the confidence she needs to reach for stars and not be afraid to fail. My dad also taught me to think for myself.

Vanina Paula Dibiase at 8:07am January 13

Lots of love and open communication so your girl is not afraid to talk about just about anything

All good points. What I want to add to this conversation is the notion that a good father provides for his child’s future as well as the present, and that for me means actively participation in the emergence of a better future for humanity.  This wil be covered in the book.