"I cannot think of any need in childhood as strong as the need for a father's protection." - Sigmund Freud
Due to recent events, I'm in desperate need of unloading some deep emotions. Rather than taking heed to a classless debate that would result in an ugly exchange of words, I prefer to unleash my thoughts here in an attempt to provide an alternate perspective to outside patrons. These are strictly my thoughts and anyone who may object to anything included in this post can go kick rocks for all I care. Okay, not really...they can go write their own blog.
I've learned in the last several days that folks have lost the desire to gain perspective from all angles. The young man pictured to the left is my cousin, Maafu Niutei; father of the two precious angels pictured above, Israel and Isabel. It appears that he has been the victim of biased criticism. I won't get into the details of that criticism because it is strictly the inspiration for this post and not the root of it.
I am grateful for young fathers who care for their children. I know that Maafu is just that; a young father who cares and provides for his children. The kids have a wonderful mother who care for them on a daily basis and I am grateful for the opportunity she allows our family to have with the kids. I know that they will one day grow to appreciate it as well.
Now I know that there are many individuals who will be quick to claim that Maafu has been a terrible father by their merits. The kids live with their mom and it is no doubt that there are days when they are glued to her. Kids are naturally attached to their moms. That being said, I want to make it clear that it is not against the law for fathers to take their children on their court appointed weekend visits. It is actually the exact opposite; it is the law. When kids cry to stay with their mom on such instances, we should be mindful that they will cry more if their father never came. Keep things in perspective and with the future in mind. How many fathers out there neglect their children with absolutely no desire to be in their lives? That is what you call a terrible father and clearly, that is NOT Maafu.
Ever since I can remember, Maafu has been in the lives of his children. Since day 1, he and his immediate family have contributed by some means to both Israel and Isabel and I refuse to let that go unrecognized. In addition, it should be noted that when any of us, Maafu's family, give for the kids (such as birthday or holiday gifts) it is because we love Maafu. It is just the same as Maafu providing for his kids. If anyone claims that Maafu (or we his family) has neglected his children in any way, they are in serious denial!!!
Maafu is now married to a kind young woman, Dawn Turner Niutei, who is also expecting their first child. Israel and Isabel will soon have a baby sister and what a blessing it will be to extend their family. Maafu and Dawn both care and love for Israel and Isabel. I have observed first-hand how she treats both Israel and Isabel and it is truly amazing how self-less she is with the two of them. Needless to say, she encourages and supports Maafu in every way and helps him to be a better father. Thank you Dawn!
This short video is small evidence of our love and care for Israel and Isabel. Maafu is a great father and we, his family, support him in every way. Before you reach to type any more words of criticism, please be sure to assess all angles of perspective before you start attacking individuals and families. We are far from perfect, but we are not the monsters certain individuals continuously make us out to be. Please stand corrected. Thank you!
