I didn’t have good role models growing up. My dad left our family when I was five and died an alcoholic a few years later. Hank, my stepdad, walked out on my siblings and me the day of my mother’s funeral. My foster dad, Mr. Reil, brought even more chaos into my life.
By the time I became a teenager, I realized I had two paths to choose from. One led to bitterness and resentment, which would make me just like the broken father figures in my life. The other path required forgiveness and humility, but it would make me a better man.
Fortunately, my football coach, Paul Moro, entered my life at a pivotal time. He made winners out of teenage boys – not just football players but men with character. He connected with me at a time when I needed a good man to give me direction. With regard to the poor role models in my life, he told me, “Their problems don’t have to be who you are.” Coach Moro helped me discover the power of forgiveness.
If you didn’t have good role models growing up – male or female – you may be having a tough time letting go of your anger. I get it. But I encourage you not to give in to it. Dig deep. Turn to your faith for strength and forgive the people who hurt you.
You build a better life, not by holding on to the past, but by freeing yourself from it. Forgiveness breaks the chains that hold you down and sets you free to create a new legacy for your family – one of happiness, love, and hope.
To speak with one of our counselors at Focus on the Family and discover the hope of faith, call 1-800-A-FAMILY.
