Michael Smith has a few rules for new fathers

JAYLEN CHRISTIE
Outlook Staff Writer

It is common knowledge that fatherhood does not come with a manual. While some men may look to Cliff Huxtable of the “Cosby Show” as the prototype of the ideal father, others prefer to simply figure it out on their own. Michael Smith certainly has the rules down pat. A father of four, Smith said being a father does provide its share of challenges, but he takes his job as a parent seriously and meets them head on.

“To me, fatherhood means I get a chance to make a great impression and investment in the life of my children that will prayerfully help shape the world in a positive and special way,” said Smith, a native of Cleveland, Ohio. “The biggest and most rewarding challenge is helping the kids manage their successes and cope with their broken dreams as they go through various stages of their lives.”

Smith, along with wife Loretta, has raised Loreal, 24, Michael, Jr., 22, Lauren 20, and Mallex, 17. With four children, Smith does admit that things can get hard. To that end, he said he turns to his wife as the disciplinarian.

“She keeps the order,” said Smith, who serves as the interim athletic director at Florida A&M University. “The kids really think I am a cream puff—especially my girls. Despite the challenges of being a father, Smith was never nervous about becoming one. In fact, Smith said he was thrilled. “I was not nervous about being a dad because I always wanted to be one,” he said. “There is no substitute suitable to kids than their dad’s time and presence. My experience at home growing up with my parents was a good one.”

Indeed, it was. Smith’s father was very kind. “My dad was so much fun,” he said. “He was fair to all six of his sons. Most of all he allowed us to grow up and be our own person.” When it comes to Smith’s skills as a father, his friends are definitely supportive. Among those supportive individuals is Bruce Daniels, who said Smith is a good man and a great father.

“I’ve never seen a man give as much time to young people,” said Daniels, a native of Ormond Beach. Daniels met Smith years after moving to Tallahassee. “He brings his children to church and is responsible for a number of kids joining. He’s an excellent father— a great provider and a great role model. He’s all the things you would want a father to be.”

Pressing on to the future, now that Smith’s children are getting older, he will spend more time with his wife and is looking forward to spoiling his grandchildren whenever the time comes. Until then, he’ll just continue to be the best father he can be. Despite there not being an official manual for fathers to be, Smith said he has some advice to be included in an instruction booklet if there ever is one.

“Take time to listen to your children,” he said. “Learn how to love them unconditionally. Don’t be afraid to discipline your children. Let them know that failure is a part of success. Do not be afraid to tell your children you were wrong and that you are sorry, and trust God to lead and guide them as they become young adults.”