This is a story very dear to my family. I feel comfortable sharing it with this awesome, supportive community and thank you all for being the kind of people who promote kindness and understanding. 
In our faith, we believe that fathers have the honor and opportunity of giving their children blessings. Usually this is done at times of illness or stress, but also as important life events occur- an important exam, before a wedding or preparing for childbirth, or when the child is hoping for guidance and insight when making an important decision.
When our DIL was engaged to son #2, she was estranged from her father but wanted a blessing like this, so she asked my husband if he would do this for her, as her soon-to-be father in law. It was a request that was very humbling for him, and he was honored to do this. It definitely helped to create a more loving bond with her, as it touched us all.
