By HAROLD KELLER

This is the age of the absentee father. Not necessarily the man who has deserted his wife and children, but the father who is in the house, but out of the family’s life. The couch potato, the workaholic, the sports addict who puts his selfish interest of being entertained by athletes before the interest of his wife and children.

The saddest thing in today’s society is that the majority of fathers fit one or more of these catagories.

How refreshing it is to hear of a man who has accepted his godly role in society and is the provider, protector and spiritual head of his household! I know many men who, after marriage, remained faithful to their God, their wives, fathered children and trained them up to be God-fearing, productive human beings. These men should be recognized as heroes.

I grew up with a young man who was always a gentleman. He married a young lady with four children a little late in life. Over the years, we’ve kept in touch. One of the boys got involved in drugs and has had a rough time.

A few years ago, I was asked to talk to him. I shared my heart with him and offered to help. He didn’t respond to my offer.

Two weeks ago, I met him at a drug treatment center. I didn’t recognize him until he said, “Mr. Harold, it took me a long time to get here, but I finally made it.” “I know your mom and stepdad must be glad,” I said. “He’s not my stepdad,” he shot back, convincingly. “He has loved my mom and provided for all of us. He’s the only daddy I’ve ever known.”

Talking about heroes! Here’s a man who accepted another man’s responsibility, did an excellent job and never asked for anything in return. That’s love!

HAROLD KELLER writes this column as part of his affiliation with the Get High on Life religious motivational group. Call him at (985) 652-8477 or write to P.O. Drawer U, Reserve, LA 70084.