We all know the difference that a responsible, committed father like those five gentlemen can make in the life of a child. Fathers are our first teachers and coaches. They’re our mentors and they’re our role models. They set an example of success and they push us to succeed; encourage us when we’re struggling; and they love us even when we disappoint them, and they stand by us when nobody else will.
And when fathers are absent — when they abandon their responsibilities to their children — we know the damage that that does to our families. Some of you know the statistics: Children who grow up without fathers are more likely to drop out of school and wind up in prison. They’re more likely to have substance abuse problems, run away from home, and become teenage parents themselves.
And I say this as someone who grew up without a father in my own life. I had a heroic mom and wonderful grandparents who helped raise me and my sister, and it’s because of them that I’m able to stand here today. But despite all their extraordinary love and attention, that doesn’t mean that I didn’t feel my father’s absence. That’s something that leaves a hole in a child’s heart that a government can’t fill.
I didn’t read the whole thing, but it looks like a great speech.
I applaud this speech by the President. One of the huge challenges before our culture is the diminishing of men and the vital importance of a healthy security for children by the presence and involvement of their fathers in upbringing. I am grateful my father was always present in my growing up, and I am humbled that I had the opportunity to be there for both my daughter. Right now I am loving being a grandfather who is present for his grandchildren