Father’s Day

Today a special day, dedicated to fathers they say . But how do you ever forget the one, who gave you life, carried you from infancy, who walked you to school , waited outside on your first day at work, who led you up the aisle on your wedding day ?

My father a simple and gentle man, cheerful, with a smile for most everyone. He never was on a battlefield or a hero , but was always my champion, my favourite man .

Though we were three, he doted on me. Being the one in the middle and plain, I was often overlooked. But to him I was the little princess, the one who made him proud .

There was no talent he did not bestow on me, when talking to family and friends. Be it singing , dancing or oratory skills. Each one of my small victories were magnified and made legendary.

Regaling us with tales of mythology and lore, as children he turned our dinner time magical. Each spoonful ,of the otherwise insipid food was made immensely palatable.The songs he sang as lullaby, still haunt my ears at night.

Household chores never frowned upon, he helped my mother, with no rancour. A kind person was he and never said ‘no’ , to anyone who sought his aid. Sacrificing his own comfort, he lent a hand, even to the least of his brothers .

It broke his heart when he lost his youngest, Never was he the same again .The latter years he spent, mourning her loss . His solace, the two who were left .

It was on the day, after my forty fifth birthday, that he breathed his last. With one last blessing, one last felicitation, he was gone, at the age of eighty Never a day goes by, that I don’t recall those times of joy and love, shared with my father .

The one who taught us, life is never easy but to be brave and face it with courage. To respect people and if possible, never turn down a request for help. To always smile, even in the worst travail and no task is too difficult or menial.