Name: Jonas Bush | City: Houston, TX | Instagram: @Jbandthefam

What does being a father mean to you?

Being a father means being preset, upholding a standard of strength and integrity in the home. It also means being able to be humble and gentle with those that you lead. It is an honorable role and a serious role that one must hold as something sacred and valuable. Being a father is an opportunity to develop into exactly what God intended for YOU to be as a “whole” man.

Describe your experience with your father growing up and how that impacted you today.

My father is a minister, and was an example in our home. He is still a man of integrity today and this is where I got my foundation. The reason I see the family unit and fatherhood the way I do is because of my father. He’s loving, a man of integrity, and he was THERE! He taught us and led by example both in word and in deed.

Have you had any obstacles on your fatherhood journey? If so, explain.

Yes, I lost 2 siblings in a car accident on our way to a church event. Knowing that my father and mother were both active members of the body of Christ and such examples in the church, this experience was hard for me to fathom, when I considered the “why”?! As a father, this experience has taught me that at any moment things can change. No matter your dedication to God and how great you are as a father, hardship will still visit you. But God…

What advice would you give others new on their fatherhood journey?

I’d say always stay committed to your spouse and children. Be present in the home! Talk with your family. Give them VISION! Be kind, patient and humble. You don’t have all the answers. PRAY as a family and be REAL! Teach them with transparency! Tell them about your mistakes and how you’ve grown and learned from them. This way you are relatable and your words are always impactful.

If you wanted to write a quick note to your father, starting with “Dear Father,” what would it be?

Dear father, THANK YOU for manifesting THE FATHER! #God

Name 5 fathers you cosign.