Jason
As immigrants, our family had a rocky time adjusting to life in the US. As a child, the feeling of not fitting in exacerbated the feelings of loneliness, marginalization, and backwardness. In a culture of strong-voiced, charismatic male personas, Dr. Dobson was not that! He was a gentle, wise, kindhearted, and knowledgeable counselor who offered sound discussions about difficult problems in life that gave audiences this feeling: “by God’s grace, we can make it through this.” When I sat down in quiet evenings to do my homework, I’d turn on the radio and listen to Focus on the Family, and I’d get fatherly wisdom and insight from someone who explained why my life seemed like such a struggle, and he provided biblically sound advice on how to persevere, take heart, be courageous, and aspire for the best that God would bring about in the midst of life circumstances that were meant to train me for my good and His glory. I eventually went to school for a term at his Focus on the Family Institute, which enlarged my mind and provided me a world of mentors and friendships. HQ in CS is a special place. That experience set the vision and trajectory of my urban ministry work today. Focus on the Family is an organizational collaboration of many wonderful believers who shared his vision. We all touch a life, and each person there followed his leadership to do so in the love of Jesus, with wisdom, zeal, and joy. Thank you, Dr. Dobson.
Tony
When I first became a Christian 57 years ago, I learned of Dr. James Dobson’s ministry. His common-sense knowledge surrounding the family and raising children inspired me to get an education in psychology, to help others where I could. As a student of “human behavior,” I was fascinated by his insight. I would say, as have millions of others, that you truly have been a great teacher and mentor. You have given us tools that have helped us in this journey called “life.” Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. You are now truly receiving your well-earned rewards. One day we will meet again.
Rebecca
When I was 13, the devil told me I was going to die at 20 years old and that I did not need to prepare for any future, such as having a family. Somehow, as a smart but school-failed teenager, I believed it. So, the thought about having a family was negative for me, even though I was attracted to girls. But, to cut the story short, at 20 I did die, but with Christ through the gospel. So, it’s not the way the devil expected. I was an international student from Indonesia in the USA and listened to FOTF daily on WMBI for all the 4 years of my college life. And I continue to listen online (even Family Talk). After I returned to my country, I got married (19 years of marriage now, with 2 kids). Because of listening to Dr. Dobson at the age of 20, I had a positive view about marriage and began preparing for marriage and parenting, even before I got married and became a parent. The last purchase before I returned to my country was a children’s Bible, so I could read it to my future son and daughter. And I did read it to my kids before they went to sleep when they were little. My daughter’s middle name is Danae in honor of Dr. Dobson. It’s impossible to fully describe the impact of his ministry on my marital and parenting life. Thank you for your faithfulness and legacy. Let us take the baton and pass it to the next generation that will raise godly families.
Yudi
“Well done, good and faithful servant” – a life well lived in defense of the family. Thank you. Thank you, Mrs. Dobson, for sharing Dr. Dobson with the world. What has always separated Dr. Dobson from the rest of his profession is that he was always Christ- and Bible-centered before he got into the “psychological” aspect of the discussion.
Todd
What can I say that hasn’t already been said about this extraordinary man known as “Dr. Dobson”? I have been listening to Dr. Dobson since I gave my life to the LORD in the 80s. I have learned so much through the many programs/teachings from his ministry. Since hearing of his homegoing, I’ve had mixed emotions. A part of me is sad, but the other part is so happy for him that he stands before the object of his affection . . . the Almighty! I can only imagine the welcome he received from those gone ahead. So, I’m not saying “goodbye” . . . just “see you later.” Prayers for Shirley, Ryan, Danae, and for all of us who love this dear man.
Tonya
What a light . . . what a call for purity, love, and the humane treatment of one another! Dr. Dobson spoke from the godly perspective of wisdom and sanity in a world of chaos, confusion, and darkness. His words were so needed, and they still continue to echo truth in the deceptive world in which we live. He helped me be a better Christian therapist with speakers, books, and broadcasts from Focus on the Family. He has been a blessing to me and to millions of others. I thank Mrs. Dobson, Danae, and Ryan for sharing him and his calling with us. His legacy will not be forgotten. Sending love and prayers to the family.
Cheryl
Dr. James Dobson and his radio ministry have helped sharpened my faith and influenced my parenting. I have been listening to Dr. Dobson since he was first at Focus on the Family and then at Family Talk. I already have read his books, “Love Must Be Tough” and “Bringing Up Boys.” I credit the wisdom I gained from these books in being an intentional parent to my sons and true partner to my spouse. I also remember and have passed on this advice: “respect precedes love.” I have passed along these teachings to my friends, and, as for my part, Dr. Dobson’s legacy will live on in the lives of countless individuals. I thank God for his life on earth and all the impact he has made in 89 years. Truly, a life well lived!
Elisa
I spent a good portion of my adult life in my 20s and early 30s as a churchgoer, but I was far from a godly man. I read Dr. Dobson’s “Straight Talk to Men.” I closed the book, called my dad, and told him I wanted to be baptized and go on that Emmaus Walk in which he wanted me to take part. If it wasn’t for Straight Talk to Men, I would have possibly never gone on that wonderful retreat and might still be just a “churchgoer.” Thank you, Dr. Dobson! Ken
Ken
Like so many other parents raising children with godly values and principles, our family faithfully followed Dr. James Dobson and Focus on the Family. We have some fond memories of listening to “Adventures in Odyssey” and reading books to our children. I have kept a few of these treasures and am now sharing them with grandchildren. We are thankful for his stepping out, reaching out, and taking a stand for family values. We honor and respect his vision and purpose. May he rest in peace, may God be with his family and surround them with love and comfort. The Koziaras
janelle