5 Question with Ontonio Dawson

Fathers occupy a fundamental role in the development of a child’s psychological, emotional, physical, and spiritual sphere. We internalize the influential voices of these paternal figures that powerfully serve as a guide throughout our lives which can either be of positive or negative impact. The fierce love, gentle compassion, guaranteed protection, consistent support, and great motivation that he provides make us feel there is no limit, we are unconquerable holding his guiding hands. Though he bears the weight of the family, his jovial demeanor is revealed in his playful but meaningful interaction with his family; priceless moments we cannot forget. His life imparts valuable lessons to us as he is a role model and an expression of God’s plan and design for the man in the family.

One such devoted father is Ontonio Dawson who is a Psychological Therapist, Minister of Religion, Emotional Support Coach, Motivational Speaker, Author of God's Seed For Success, and an excellent father of three children who portrays his steadfast love and personal commitment to his youngsters through the wisdom given through quality time and daily affirmations.

1. What do you love most about being a father?

The most mind-blowing and satisfying feeling about being a father is to watch the various stages of development that my children undergo daily. There is never a dull moment when I am with them. Currently, I am exploring a whole new world as it relates to being a father as I watch my baby twins grow. What makes it even more interesting is that they are boy and girl, both forming distinct personalities. In addition, my three-year-old is the soul and life of the house. She challenges me every day by questioning everything that I do.

My greatest joy is transferring wisdom and knowledge to my children through daily affirmations and quality time. It is my belief that parent’s who invest time to teach their children values and morals live on in their children even after they exit this world.

2. How do you show up for your children daily?

Showing up for my children is a daily and lifelong commitment. It is a decision to be a father that is representing the role that God plays in my life. The bible says that “God is a present help”, and it is my belief that the only way to effectively show up for my children is to be physically, emotionally, psychologically, and spiritually available and present to support them as they navigate through the challenges of life. Showing up for my children means that I become a permanent voice that shapes their cognition. The reality is children’s inner voice becomes what they learn.

Additionally, showing up for my children means to take part and enjoy the simple activities of taking them to school, giving them their bath, reading bedtime stories, playing and praying together.

3. How do you create a balance between being a father and all the other responsibilities you might have?

Balance can be quite challenging to acquire but as a Psychological Therapist, I help people daily to create balance and structure in their lives. As a result, I incorporate similar techniques in my life where I compartmentalize my week into 3 sections: routine, necessary and pleasurable tasks. My responsibility to my family is part of my routine, therefore creating a space for family time is priority.

As a Therapist, Minister of Religion, Emotional Support Coach, Motivational Speaker, Author, Husband, and father of 3 children, requires constant organization, forward thinking and delegating to ensure that my busy schedule does not neglect my family time. One of my belief is to never get so busy pursuing your goals that you forget what matters the most. This keeps me grounded in my values and allows my family to be the forefront of my mind.

4. What advice would you give to the young fathers of today?

Becoming a father is more than an act of pleasure, it is a lifelong responsibility that requires stability, commitment, and compassion. Too many children grow up without their fathers which perpetuates the challenges we have in society. It is my belief that a mother can never be a father. You are the special ingredient in your children’s life that will support them to rise to their full potential. You represent a cornerstone of hope and upward mobility in their life. Becoming a father means that you have placed yourself in the driver’s seat of your child’s life and you cannot afford to cause a casualty, you must drive them safely to their destiny. Your child’s mental, emotional, and physical stability is dependent on your availability. Do not be too busy “hustling” to the extent that you leave you child open to be socialized by a world that doesn’t see their worth.

5. Describe a chill day with you and your children.

A typical chill day with my children would include being at home learning or developing a skill and having fun. We would be out in the garden playing games, preparing a meal together, singing songs (having mini praise and worship), going to the park, and eating ice-cream. What we enjoy doing the most is create original affirmations and writing songs. Something I enjoy doing with my three-year-old is gardening, during the pandemic we planted fruit and veg together and watched them grow. Lastly, bath times are always fun and reading bedtime stories. Something that I am excited to do when my twins get a little older.

Connect with Ontonio Dawson

Contributed Author - Kaylia Davis