In an interview that will be published in June I was asked, "What do you feel is the most important thing a father can provide for his child?"

How would you answer? My response might have been different twenty years ago and may well be different twenty years from now (my kids are approaching 23, 21, 19 and 17) but this is how I responded today.

Beyond the mandatory essentials of providing for a child’s well being and development, the core of what I believe a father needs to provide for his child is encouragement. Encouragement that is beyond the sentimentality of a card, and more the practice of inspiring their children with courage, heart and hope. We do this through consistency and passion in our presence, our words and our actions. I want my children to grow up true to himself or herself and true to a discovered mission or purpose that is beyond them. I see a dad’s role then, in addition to helping provide a safe and healthy home, is to nurture their child’s courage to explore their heart and world with integrity and compassion.

Now it's your turn. Add your response to the comment section below.