In the story, "Fathers Provide Bridge Over the River Goo," Kathleen Parker shares her personal point of view on the importance of fathers. Raised by her father since she was 3, Kathleen describes how thanks to her father she possessed a stronger self-esteem than those girls who didn't have a father. Kathleen also expresses her worries about, "the many girls growing up without fathers owing to divorce, divisive custody arrangements or the misguided decisions of some women to become single mothers. I disagree with Kathleen Parker. Yes, a father figure is important in a child's life, but not necessary. Women who have financial means to support their child should do so, even if the father chooses not involved. I believe that women who raise kids without a father figure are just as strong as those who do provide a father figure. Children without a father figure are capable of building up a strong self-esteem, maintaining a great confidence, and being independent.
First, children without a father figure are capable of building up a strong self-esteem. Unlike Kathleen who says, "No single influence is more important to a girl's self- esteem and her future than her father," I think a child pertaining to a single parent is as capable as the one with both parents involved. I personally have a great self-esteem and I come from a single mother. "Father" is not only a title that can be worn just because they created that child. A father is one who takes the time to love and fully care for their child and who takes on responsibility. Only then, will a child be able to build a strong self-esteem. Self-esteem is not only built upon a father figure, it is also built upon our experiences and the people around us. A teacher can contribute to a child's high self-esteem by teaching him or her things that are new to them. Any good influences help a child build up a great self-esteem as well as a strong confidence.
