DAN R. writes:

Apparently there is a new trend catching on among the younger generation: companies celebrating new “Dads”** with a rough equivalent of the baby shower. My niece is pregnant. Her husband works at a medium-sized tech company. Recently they held a recognition for the “Dads” whose wives are expecting a child.  Never mind that the original baby shower was a tribute to a woman becoming a mother. In the new world “dads” are just as important as “moms,” with wives nearly fully integrated into the work force. For many, being at home with the baby is barely a consideration. I was admonished by my sister to “be happy for them” and recognize that the company’s celebration was both “lovely” and “very thoughtful.” If you’re unsure of the meaning and significance of things, what better way to convince one’s self than with a celebration!

**What happened to the words “mother” and “father?”

— Comments —

Patrick O’Brien writes:

My youngest daughter is expecting her second child soon, and her fine husband has just found out that he is entitled to some paid paternity leave — yeah, sixteen weeks worth. Crazy? Yes. He couldn’t believe it, and has checked with his company several times to make sure.

I told him to take the money and run. If you work for a large company run by fools, don’t knock it when you are the beneficiary of their foolishness. He is going to seek other employment during his time off. On the other hand, a new child every year or so might be a good idea as well.

Laura writes:

Companies benefit so much (at the expense of families) from the expanded labor force that comes with working mothers that losing a few men who find new jobs while on paternity leave is surely no big deal.

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