They’re not all dad jokes and strict rules, you know.

You see posts like this every single time.

When we’re ahead of a designated day to honor an important person in our life, we like to be reminded of how amazing they are, just so we could have a deeper appreciation for them.

Since Father’s Day is basically hours away, why don’t we give credit where credit is due?

Here are times when our father was probably too AWESOME for words:

5. Providing for the family

The ever famous cultural perception of men was to provide financially for the family. It’s been that way for ages. If you ask why, let’s just say it’s deeply ingrained in what it means to be a man. Making sure you study in a good school, eat three full – or even more – meals a day, and have all your needs and wants (within reason)… your dad is immediately “on it.” Have you stopped to appreciate what you have right now? You owe half the thanks (the other half goes to mom) to an awesome father, who financially, emotionally, and directionally provides for you and your family.

4. Toughening up the kids

Life isn’t just about luxuries, vacation trips, and festive celebrations. A dad wants to make sure that his child is well taken care of, but on top of that, he also strives to make sure his kid isn’t living within a protective bubble. Time will come when we, as their children, should be prepared to face the real world. Fighting our own battles? Gaining knowledge and self-confidence? Acting in integrity with our words and beliefs? We have the man to thank!

3. Sharing invaluable life lessons

…and some classic dad jokes. Somewhere along the way, you might have been caught in a situation that triggered a “Father-Daughter,” or “Father-Son” real talk. Aside from his profession, he is, in fact, a teacher in so many ways. A father has experienced so much in his life, and he wants you to know and understand how to make right decisions. Talk about keen. Maybe this is something we already know, but words are not the only way for a father to teach important life lessons. We can learn so much from our dads through their habits, favorite things to do, and all the other little actions that go straight to our subconscious mind.

ALSO READ: Learn to Accept That Life Serves Us Lessons the Hard Way

2. Being an all-rounder

Is it just me, or does a dad always seem to find a silver lining in everything? Maybe it’s a small electrical issue in the house. Or maybe it’s a more pressing one, such as a sibling’s investment blunder. Either way, a father’s conviction to work the problem no matter the odds, is too strong to break. He exemplifies best what it means to be a real, good, and capable individual in this world, and that makes him the idol and all-rounder. I mean, have you ever looked at your dad and wonder, “What can’t you do?”

1. Caring for, and loving the family

Perhaps the most rewarding thing we can get from our fathers is TLC (tender loving care), which also translates to LOVE. It’s a special kind of love that transcends distance, mistakes or grudges. Ever since you are born, you’ve been your father’s universe. As they say, “it takes any man to father a child, but it only takes a real man to be a father.” You wouldn’t be where you are right now, without the love of your dad.

We can show our appreciation for our mom’s better half, anytime.

But since it’s Father’s Day, might as well take the chance (or day!)