Of fathers and their kids...

One of things that has struck me in Norway, other than the beautiful and amazing Norwegian Scenery, is the bonding that Fathers have with their young kids. It is completely normal to see a father taking the young kid on a ride around in a crib. it is also perfectly normal to see fathers changing the kids diapers, feeding them, stroking them to sleep, and even taking care of them when they cry. These are things that in most parts of the world mothers are 'expected' to do.

Today in church was the day of baptism for the babies of around three months. You should have seen the beautiful sight of the fathers carrying the kids to the front of the church with the mothers at their side. You may think that this is just for the show but you change your mind when you meet these fathers later even after church still cuddling the babies close to their chests in a tender and loving way as they head home. The glean in their eyes, the grin in their faces and the glee in their mouths tell it all. I remember one of our teachers at Hald International Center, who was teaching us on raising kids in Norway, telling us on the joy he had at being at home for six months raising the kids at home while the mother worked. You see in Norway every new mum is entitled to a year off work with full pay on getting a child. This one year can be divided between the mother and father of the kid in such a way that each gets six months. And these six months, are what my teacher told me were the most exciting for him.

This close bonding between father and kid i feel is something that all the men (your truly included) can commit to. Having grown up in a home without a father, i could be biased in my recommendation but i still think it is beautiful and pleasant to have this in a family. Think about it!