One Truth Every Struggling Dad Needs to Hear

To every father reading this: keep up the good work.

It’s easy to feel invisible in the daily grind of parenting, but no matter what you’re facing today, remember this one truth: your kids need you.

The Weight of the Journey

We heard from a father named Mike, who represents so many dads navigating the often-silent struggles of parenthood. Mike isn’t just tired, he feels deeply frustrated and beaten down by the relentless challenges of life. His story is one of heavy burdens carried with very little support.

In Mike’s case, the trials are layered. His 12-year-old son deals with significant learning challenges alongside various physical issues. For any parent, this would be an ongoing trial of patience and endurance. However, Mike is carrying this weight largely on his own. Another huge factor in his exhaustion is that the boy’s mother wants no part of the situation. She has stepped away, leaving Mike to navigate the complexities of special needs and adolescence as a solo anchor for his son.

In the Trenches of Failure

Because of these pressures, Mike shared that he has been struggling with deep depression. The weight became particularly heavy during the holiday season, a time when the world expects joy, but many find only isolation. He wrote to us with heartbreaking honesty: “I am no longer happy or in good moods. I feel like I am a failure.” He continued, “I have written my son letters, and he wrote back saying that I am the only one he has. Along with God, I am the only one who is there for him. I’m not sure what I am doing.”

When a man feels like he’s failing, it’s hard to see the value in his own presence. Mike is questioning his own worth, yet his son’s response reveals a completely different reality. To that young boy, Mike isn't a failure; he is the entire world.

Beyond the "Perfect" Fatherhood

Sometimes it might seem like we try to portray fatherhood as a series of highlight reels — all hugs, laughter, and easy victories with no problems. And there are definitely great moments to savor and celebrate. Still, we know that isn't the reality for everyone — and every dad has some significant struggles and challenges. We know there are many dads out there who are facing substantial issues, perhaps some that are similar to what Mike is up against.

If you are currently facing something heartbreaking, where the path forward seems obscured by tears and fatigue, you’re not alone. Many other dads understand and empathize, even if they don’t show it outwardly. Also, even in the midst of the pain, there are good reasons to stand strong and persevere. Mike’s son told him something that should awaken the "father-heart" in all of us — that he was the "only one there for him."

A Presence That Persists

No matter what your specific fathering challenges might be, this story reinforces an important truth: children truly need their dads.

Mike’s 12-year-old son, in the midst of numerous obstacles, needs his father’s presence, love and care every day. And your children, in whatever stage of development or growth they are in, need you just as desperately. Even when it’s a struggle — especially when it’s a struggle — your presence matters.

Don’t miss this vital point: even when you're wondering if you have a meaningful purpose, and even when you can't find the motivation to keep going, your kids still need you to show up. Sometimes the hugs and laughter don’t come back your way immediately. Sometimes all you do is serve your family with no rewards or "thank yous."

But that’s okay. Do your best anyway. Discover all you can about how to be a great dad and learn to savor even the smallest victories — a quiet moment, a shared meal, or a simple letter. Being a father is one of the highest callings any man could ever have.

If you’re doing your best, then undoubtedly you’re making a difference, and you will continue to do so.

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