Manly Camp culminates on Sunday morning when each man tells the others why his son(s) is going to make a great man. This public affirmation is incredibly powerful and difficult to duplicate.  Boys who are 13 and older are given the opportunity to say something about their Dad if they choose.

Here are some suggestions for getting the most out of the affirmation:

• Prepare in advance but try not to read it.  Target 2-3 minutes or so per affirmation

• Avoid talking about yourself, your mistakes, your Dad, or anything that focuses on anyone other than the “target” unless it is a short and sweet story with an affirming point.

• Affirmations are always positive.  Avoid sarcasm or jokes.

• Be straight forward, positive, specific and affirmative:

  o   You are gifted vs. when you try, you do fine

  o   You are loved vs. sometimes you drive me crazy, but I love you

  o   I am proud of you vs. even though you mess up and fail a lot, I’m proud of you

• Telling short stories of accomplishments or “proud Dad moments” that stood out to you over the last year can highlight special achievements and character traits you want to highlight (e.g. during your illness, I was inspired by your faith and courage; when our dog died, you showed amazing kindness and love to your sister by consoling her; I was proud when)

• Might write out the affirmation and give to them afterwards or present some other special gift

• Be creative.  Remember, your son will remember the moment, not necessarily exactly what was said (that’s why writing it out and giving to them to read later might be a good idea) so don’t sweat over details.  They will remember it as a special moment no matter what.