Former Green Beret shares parenting insights that foster resilient daughters

Fathers’ Influence in Daughters’ Relationships

In today’s American culture, there’s a powerful push for girls to seek independence, often at great lengths. Yet, fathers hold a unique key to influence their daughters’ choices and paths.

Nick Freitas, a former Green Beret and Virginia state representative, shares a personal reflection. “You think you’re tough until you have a little girl, and then you realize just how amazing you really are,” he mentions during a conversation with Blaze TV host Allie Beth Stuckey.

Freitas reveals three insights he gained while parenting his daughter. First, he emphasizes the importance of expressing love verbally. “Fathers often don’t realize that working long hours and providing doesn’t automatically convey love,” he points out. “It’s crucial to verbalize it, not just show it through actions.” He recounts a telling exchange with a man he views as morally questionable. The man advised him, “Tell her you love her, because if you don’t, someone like me will step in, and she will believe him.”

He continues, noting that relationships begin even in toddlerhood. A common misconception among fathers is that emotional connections can be built later as kids grow more independent. “From their youngest days, fathers need to engage and build that bond,” he asserts. “They should feel your love, and know you’re always truthful with them.” However, no parent is flawless. Freitas acknowledges, “Every father faces a moment when their child realizes they’ve fallen short of those standards.” He highlights the importance of being able to admit mistakes. “If you can’t look them in the eye and say, ‘You’re right, I’m wrong, and I’m sorry,’ then you’re not truly teaching them about moral values. You’re simply establishing an authoritative dynamic,” he explains.

Freitas stresses that building a strong connection is essential, suggesting that daughters learn how to observe the respect and love shown to their mothers. “If you treat her mother well,” he adds, “that’s the standard she will hold. If a man comes along who doesn’t measure up, she will reject him because of you.” This perspective shows how the way fathers treat their partners influences their daughters’ expectations in relationships.