I have been hesitant to share my opinion on this issue but it has been on my mind for sometime now. I don’t know if it is because I am a father, that I am quite fond of fair treatment, or more likely a combination of both, but I can’t let it go any longer without sharing my perspective on this issue.
During the fall of last year a story came out about a Father – Adrian Peterson- used severe measures to discipline his child. The response of media and society was, from my vantage point, one of disgust and outrage that he would abuse his child in this way. Fast forward to Spring 2015, another Mother – Toya Graham – uses severe measures to discipline her child. The response of media and society was celebration, awards, talks show appearances and general agreement that what she did was the right thing.
Now I know that there are more differences in the stories that I have not highlighted, I guess you can do that in your comments, but what I am bothered by is the seemingly apparent disparity society has shown, and the message it sends. What are we saying to our Father’s out there who are rearing children in America?
One message I heard loud and clear: You are not wanted as a parent. Whether its the favor given to mothers in placement of children, or the assistance that almost requires the father to maintain a role of sperm donor for fear the family may lose their benefits, or the growing discontent with anything masculine. The message is clear, at least to me. What are your thoughts?