Democratic and Liberal political analysis and commentary

Obama's first appearance in a black church since his break up with Trinity United Church of Christ was quite remarkable. He took the opportunity to turn up the heat on black men in general on this Father's Day.

The language was stark. Can you imagine a white guy getting up there and saying, "stop watching SportsCenter" and act like a man instead of a boy?" Good for him. It needs to be said.

Here's my favorite quote from the speech, which applies to all fathers,black, white red or purple.

“We also need families to raise our children,” he said at Sunday’s service. “We need fathers to realize that responsibility doesn’t just end at conception. That doesn’t just make you a father. What makes you a man is not the ability to have a child. Any fool can have a child. That doesn’t make you a father. It’s the courage to raise a child that makes you a father.”

Amen! It's high time somebody who can actually make a difference address this issue. As a single mother, I relate to the struggle he describes. A mother can try as she might, but there are days when she just needs someone else to help out. It could be paying the bills, getting children to practice or school, or staying up all night with a sick child. I've often cried out loud in frustration when I'm in a tough situation. The bottom line is...it's hard to raise a child on my own. Where is the helper that is supposed to be here helping?

I was blessed to have a wonderful and engaged father in my life. My mom was great too, but it made a difference having that male influence in the form of my father. Too bad all kids, including my own, don't know that security.

Obama's comments may not be taken to heart, and maybe even criticized. But when he is elected, he should launch a national initiative on active fatherhood. And put some money behind it. Maybe he can use the abstinence-only money that is currently being wasted.