Outside of this whole future dad thing being what my friend described as the only time you'll have "stress filled fun", one of the reasons I believe I needed to undergo this self reflective process was synthesized by a pair of voices I've recently enjoyed listening to on the "find the outside" Podcast.  On an episode where they reflect on their ancestors, Tim and Tuesday shared the idea that quote "We are already ancestors, by virtue of being alive".  That struck me as a powerful way of looking at what it is I'm trying to create, impart, share and participate in as a future dad.  One of the things that can create lasting memories is how intense the emotions are.  The more intense, the longer one remembers.  So taking stock of what may have influenced me, what memories have lingered, and what intense emotions may accompany them, might help me be a more present dad. Inshallah.   It's also heartening to know I'm in good company.  A 2015 report on Parenting in America by the Pew Research center stated that 57% of dads see fatherhood as a positive experience that is central to their identity. Care to guess what percent of moms see parenting as central to their identity? 58%.   That surprised me, until I saw the part where they found moms, more than dads, turn to family and friends for parenting advice.  19% of fathers turn to a family member who is not their spouse for parenting advice, and 8% of fathers turn to friends for parenting advice.   That makes me wonder, if almost 2/3 of men see fatherhood as central to their identity. Where is that conversation happening? In what ways is it expressed by these men.  If only 19% and 8% turn to family and friends, respectively.  Is the majority trying to go it alone? Have a friend who's about to become a dad? ask them about their experience so far, let them talk. Also, let'em know to check this podcast out, and to submit any questions, or comments they may have to Future Dads Club @ gmail.com    https://www.pewsocialtrends.org/2015/12/17/2-satisfaction-time-and-support/#parenting-matters-to-overall-identity

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