The Impact Dr. James Dobson Had On My Life
- Brittney Switala
- Aug 23
- 4 min read
The Kitchen, Circa 1986
It's 7:00 a.m. on a school day. I've taken a shower and rush down the stairs to the kitchen. Mom is at the sink and Dr. Dobson is on the space saver radio, right under the cabinet. We had one of those trendy "breakfast bars"- which meant the room was small enough we really didn't have room for all three of us to sit with our new gizmo- the microwave. Dad and I scooted in next to each other, with Mom on the end. Our spoons hit against glass cereal bowls. I slurp, leaning back in my wicker-back "s" chair (I was starting to wear out the linoleum under my chair from this bad habit.) Dad scooped up the last of his Raisin Bran/Wheaties mixture from the milk as Dr. Charles Stanley's voice came loud and clear to mark 7:30 had arrived. Once he came on, we knew it's was time to hustle off to school and work.
That was my 12-year routine as a child, one that served as a good foundation for my life. It was a routine that fostered stability, faith and critcial thinking.. and it provided a good way to bounce around a conversation at the breakfast table. I learned about adult problems and developed both empathy and a desire to change the world for God's glory- like Dr. James Dobson.
Changing the World- and Me
Dr. James Dobson's ministry, known as Focus on the Family, began its influential radio broadcast in the year 1977. This initiative marked a significant turning point in the landscape of Christian media, as it aimed to provide support and guidance to families navigating the complexities of modern life. With a focus on promoting traditional family values, the program quickly gained traction, resonating with audiences across the United States and beyond. Dr. Dobson, a clinical psychologist by training, utilized his expertise to address a wide range of topics, including parenting, marriage, and the moral challenges faced by families in contemporary society. Dr. Dobson eventually left Focus on the Family and founded the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute.
My distinct memories of listening to Dr. Dobson's program revolve around three main themes: counseling, faith testimonies, and Conservative political action. As a clinical psychologist, Dr. Dobson addressed mental health topics that resonate with me today, especially since I now work in a mental health clinic. The stories of lives transformed through faith in Jesus Christ inspired my own Christian journey. Discussions about legislation affecting the moral direction of our country motivated me, just as they motivated my parents. I often saw my mom writing letters and calling the congressional switchboard on numerous occasions. I make those same calls and volunteer for campaigns today.
Specific, Rich Memories Of Dr. James Dobson
At about the time I was leaning back on that kitchen chair, digging into the linoleum, I was hitting puberty and read James Dobson's "Preparing for Adolescence."
When my friend died while I was in college, I read Dr. Dobson's book, "When God Doesn't Make Sense."
When I started my own radio career (the 2:00-10:00 p.m. shift) I listened to "Focus on the Family" once or twice every day while I was working in the office.
Hearing a sample of "Adventures in Odyssey" for the first time and learning to appreciate radio drama.
Special guest Mike Atkins and his unforgetable story of his friendship with his reclusive neighbor who came to faith in Christ. I loved it so much, I had to read the book! (A Man Called Norman)
Who Will Be the Next?
It's been a bittersweet summer. In June I buried my dad who rose to the occassion as a man of God who would preach when called on, lead Bible study or visit a person to share the Gospel. He counseled men who needed direction or spiritual guidance. I really couldn't believe that Dr. Dobson at 89 outlived my dad, but God knows the perfect timing for home going.
A few weeks ago we visited the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte and I had the same awe and admiration that I do for someone like Dr. Dobson. These leaders, world-changers, quite literally, for the Kingdom. I guess I'm just nostalgic or perhaps pessimistic to say, "Who's going to fill their shoes?"
Here we are. Send us! (Maybe)
I mean we are... we do. Whether we are filling their shoes or not, "we" are it.
If we are alive, it is our responsibility to carry out the mission. We are tasked with spreading the Gospel. We are called to advocate for justice and morals based on Biblical principles in our society. We are meant to offer guidance with wisdom from God's Word.
I write this with fear and hesitation, recognizing how often I fall short. How many times do I abandon God's assignments because it's easier to relax with my phone? I enjoy comfort and constantly have to strive for fruitfulness over ease.
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