06/13/2024
My Reflection for Father's Day 2024.
'The Unsung Heroes'
As many of us gather to celebrate Father’s Day, let us take a brief stroll through Memory Lane and look back at our fathers. Let us see the many hats, the many uniforms, the many tasks that or fathers wore, endured and performed.
Although as an infant, I obviously cannot recall, but looking at today’s dads, I can only imagine the look of fear they had when holding that small creature in their hands let alone the realization of the commitment that now lies ahead.
But as time passes, they settle into the norm of what is expected of them and, many times without realizing it, the role of being a provider, protector, teacher, athlete, builder, entertainer, clown, mechanic, plumber, carpenter, electrician, landscaper, cook and many other roles that as a father we undertake, seem to become second nature. And despite or regardless of how exhausting we may be, putting a smile on our kids’ face becomes the most natural high anyone can achieve. I recall a friend’s son coming home from a long day and, in the middle of the night, while holding a small flashlight in his teeth, put together a swing set so his kids would be surprised the next morning. And when asked how he did it, he just grinned from ear to ear.
But why ‘The Unsung Heroes’? Well, because history has shown us that truly little is said or spoken about Fathers. Just look at the bible and you will see truly little written about St. Joseph. No doubt that St. Joseph must have had an especially important influence on Our Lord. I recall the story in Luke 2:41-52, of when Jesus was left behind after a festival and both Mary & Joseph found him after three days. I can only imagine the agony that Joseph went through trying to find Jesus while at the same time comforting Mary. And furthermore, back in those days, it was customary for the ‘son’ to learn the trade of his father. So, Jesus was taught carpentry and most probably worked side by side with Joseph until began His ministry at the age of 30.
The thing is that we as Fathers, do not seek recognition. What most of us look for, what makes us the happiest, is to be the provider for our family. To provide them with food on the table. To provide a roof over their heads and, above all, for them to be and feel safe and protected. And yes, just as a mother, we too would give our lives to protect our loved ones.
Sadly, it the world we live today, many times, way too often, the roles of being a Father, transcends gender and they too become members of the Unsung Heroes Club. The Exclusive Club of the heroes who will receive funny looking socks or a tie or, God forbid, the sweater that will win, without a doubt, the Ugly Sweater Contest this coming Christmas, and yet, we will put them on with a smile just to see our loved ones be happy.
I, for one, will always be grateful to my Dad. Grateful for the lesson he taught me. Specially those lessons he taught and which I learned through his example and commitment. Lessons that have made me a better human being, a more loving and caring father. Lessons that today, have made me a more understanding human being. And above all, lessons that today, as I look back, I realize I still have some really big shoes to fill.
Happy Father’s Day all whom this humble writing reaches and may God Bless each and every one of you Always and In All Ways.
