Happy Father's Day, gentleman.
I'm currently deep in the trenches (6 and 3.5 year olds) with a long road ahead. I struggle everyday with the question, "What the hell am I doing?" and the nagging doubt that I am screwing them up with my failures.
But I'm here, everyday, trying. I'm open with my affection; encouraging them to be their best selves; demonstrating respect and humility (or at least attempting to); loving their mother, my wife; and trying to be the best, though deeply flawed, example of what a man should be for both of them.
To all of the fathers that have come before, I say Thank You.
For those currently "in the fight": I offer my encouragement and support. As long as we're trying and doing our best we're doing something right.
And to those who have yet to become fathers: Don't.
(Just kidding)
I would warn that it is the most stressful, heart-wrenching, tiring, infuriating, thankless, maddening, beautiful, fulfilling, amazing, wonderful thing you could ever do.
It's not for everyone. As a society we see the consequences of failing. But if you do become a father, by choice or otherwise, stick with it, give it your best and don't ever quit; you mean the world to somebody.