Celebrating Fathers: Reflections on great fathers in our lives

Central Florida families are celebrating our great fathers this weekend. Father’s Day is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a wonderful reminder of the steady guidance, quiet strength and unconditional love that fathers and father figures bring into our lives. Whether through words of wisdom, sacrifices made without applause, or simply showing up day after day, great fathers shape the people we become.

Here’s some timeless statements (including a few of my own from speeches, books and articles) that celebrate the value and impact of great fathers:

"Anyone can be a father, but it takes someone special to be a dad." -Wade Boggs

"My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person: he believed in me." -Jim Valvano

"What you teach your children, you also teach their children." -The Talmud

"The greatest mark of a father is how he treats his children when no one is looking." -Dan Pearce

"A father’s smile has been known to light up a child’s entire day." -Susan Gale

“You see, we’re all on a journey. Dads are a little further down the road, but none of us has yet arrived at our final destination. We are all in the process of becoming who we will one day be.” -M. Russell Ballard

"Being a great father is like shaving. No matter how good you shaved today, you have to do it again tomorrow." -Reed Markham

“The quality of a father can be seen in the goals, dreams, and aspirations he sets not only for himself but for his family.” -Reed Markham

“Successful fatherhood involves daily drops of kindness, support, and love.” -Reed Markham

“The thrill of a great father is the journey, experiencing your child's successes along the pathway to their greatness.” -Reed Markham

As we celebrate Father’s Day, let’s remember that being a father is about presence, patience, and love that endures through every stage of life. Whether it’s a biological dad, stepdad, grandfather, mentor, or father figure, today is a chance to honor the men who have shaped us with their strength, courage, sacrifice, and unwavering support.