This past month I wrote each of my adult sons a five-page letter. In it, I described my regrets as a man, husband, and father. But I also tried to express to each of them my heart for them.

What I am learning is that the people we love the most need to know our hearts. They need to hear or read words that penetrate the surface and go beneath the waterline. This is risky, I realize. Much can be misunderstood at that level of vulnerability, but life can also be infused into the hearts of those we love.

I try to do that with Lynette frequently, but this past month decided to do that with the men who are my sons.

Joe and Steve

Recently my friend Steve Smith and I sat down to talk about the adventure of being dads. We talk about what we did wrong, what we did right, and then offer a blessing to fathers and the women who love men.

You can listen to it here: Potter’s Inn Soul Care Conversations

And remember—you are the beloved of God.