Keith Lewis | Age 44 | Father of 3
Being a father in one word?
Transformative
There's no blueprint for "good" parenting/fathering, in what way(s) do you think you could improve as a father?
Being fully present and engaged with my children. Often times I may be preoccupied with work or my own "issues" which compromises my ability to be there and be supportive of their needs.
What are you most proud of in terms of what you believe you’ve done right as a dad?
I have a blended family which poses challenges with respect to time spent and resources. However, I have unabashedly been present, supportive and accountable when it was not always convenient or I was not in the best economic position to provide something they needed.
Anything about fatherhood that you dislike?
It can be very tiresome especially when you are trying to be responsible, engaged and supportive. Rearing Children and trying to expose them to enriching opportunities is not cheap!
What scares you most about the world our kids are growing up in?
Technology is making society very complacent and in my opinion less critical. I am extremely concerned that my children will not have the life-thinking and decision-making skills to help them navigate through the world as independent beings.
Most important life lessons that you want your kids to learn? (list or discuss up to 3)
To demonstrate and practice selflessness - It's not always about you. To love, nurture and support each other as siblings no matter what the circumstances. Embrace challenges and don't flee from them. Acknowledge your fears but recognize that challenges are the catalysts for stimulating growth and change.
Insights or words of encouragement for new or expecting fathers?
Love your baby(ies) at every stage of their life and appreciate to the fullest the things they do. I know that I had a tendency to say that I struggled with ages 0-3 and couldn't wait for my children to reach that magical age of 4. Four was the magical age because they would be fully potty-trained and could communicate decently their thoughts and needs. I recognize now with that mentality I was overlooking those times with my eldest two and in some instances deprived them of a fully engaged and nurturing dad. Now that I have a two-year-old again I have been so much more mindful and intentional to not look ahead at the next stage but to relish and cherish the toddler stage and all the joys ( & frustrations) it brings. It all shall pass and will pass quicker than you think.
