...More nonsense yesterday and today. Yesterday we were "taught" that fathers basically have no significance in the life of the child; facts and research shows that 1) Fathers about 20% as much time w/children than mothers. 2)Women say they are more attracted to their husbands when they spend time with the children and 3) Husbands who encourage their wives increase the longevity of breastfeeding in a society where breastfeeding is frowned upon.

Today we were "taught" that, "children do not need really need two-parents. They only need an "attachment figure", namely the mother, to breastfeed, nurture, love etc. . The single parent only needs to insure that they display both masculine and feminine qualities because a child needs both influences in their life, not necessarily both parents."

On the first day of class the instructor drew a "timeline" on the board to represent the practices of our ancestors and the practices of today. She often refers to the timeline when discussing the lack of attachment parenting, breastfeeding, significance of the role of the mother, etc. that is occuring today. "Our ancestors did not do it this way so why are we changing things." So in response to the degrading of the father I asked her to refer to her timeline and tell me where and when the role of the father became so insignificant because surely our ancestors didn't downgrade the father as we're doing today did they? Her response was that, "the father never had a significant role in the life of the child because he was out hunting, providing etc. The mother has always been the main influence in the child's upbringing and nurturing." Now in saying all of this I will admit that some of us fathers may have put ourselves in this position. However, I don't think that my provision for my family is insignificant in influencing and shaping my children. Nor will I settle for this role of breastfeeding supporter, non time spending, let me love the kids so I can get some lovin' from mama, bend my wrist because I shouldn't be too masculine...gimme a break <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/puke.gif" alt="" /> I just want to tell her look in God's Word and that'll show you what to do with all of your so called research. Dump it! The role of the mother and father are equally significant and necessary for the upbringing of children, and that's no disparagement against single-parent families, but it is God's design. Fathers are called to provide for, nuture their children and teach them the ways of the one true God. Tell me that's insignificant and I'll tell you how you've let feminists and so called researchers brainwash you.

...ok I'm done venting. Thank you.

tj
"-that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection..."