To all fathers I wish much peace and joy, love and blessings on your special day. And I'm not talking about just biological fathers, but anyone who has given fathering care along the way.

Fathering makes up at least half the nurturing we need growing up and in the nature of the circle of life, fathering is given in turn.

Fathers are known as and become the backbone of our life and personality, especially during our formative years. The role gives structure and we all know any construction needs a solid foundation to hold the innards.

Fathers and those who father as in the verb, give an invaluable service to the development of kids, grandkids and all they come in contact with in their lives.

I still have a stepfather whom I cherish and respect even here in middle age. My biological parents have long gone on but I still get that warm glow and comfortable feeling interacting with my step dad.

Let's do a meditation in remembrance of the nurturing we receive from those who father us now and have in the past.

To begin: Choose a quiet spot to sit. If it is warm in your area a bench in the garden is a peaceful place for meditation. Either sit on a cushion on the deck with your legs folded in, or sit up straight on a bench. Fold your hands in your lap or rest them, palms up or palms down on your thighs.

Close your eyes and do some rounds of even breathing such as breathe in counts 1, 2; breathe out counts 1, 2; breathe in counts 1, 2; and continue on for a minute. Then let go of the counting but continue the rhythmic breathing.

Now take a few minutes to think over how important fathering is, and who you should be appreciating on this special day. Even if your biological father has passed on there are always others who play the male nurturing role for us. It could be a stepfather, grandpa, uncle, or even a teacher, or sports director. This year I am grateful for 2 of my male cousins about 10 years older than myself, who have made an effort to contact me again after many years. For them I say a prayer and blessing this Father's Day.

Now sit in silence and listen to the sounds around you; melt into the moment; appreciate this very moment that you have been given to be appreciative and grateful that fathers exist in the world.

Finish your meditation with a deep breath in and slowly release it. Open your eyes, stretch out and peacefully go on with your day.

Article and photo of meditation garden by Susan Kramer

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For offline reading
Meditation for Teens and Adults
More than 70 offerings, from guided meditation techniques to on-the-go stress relief and relationship meditations interspersed with verse, and a section of special occasion prayers. 114 pages.

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Also

Meditation for all Kids Sitting, walking, dance and group circle meditations, along with positive affirmations, verses and benefits of meditation for kids of all ages and abilities in a 100 page book with illustrations.