doing what has to be done -- a dedication to my father

This weekend it’s Father’s Day, a day dedicated to celebrating fathers, mostly in the US, but basically everywhere.

So, I thought I would write about my father and how he has impacted me and my life. 

I lost him two years back due to cancer. And I miss him every day. 

My father has played a huge role in shaping my life. I am what I am because of my parents. No matter what stage of life I was, he was always there, supporting me, helping me, being my guide and my friend. He celebrated my ups (more than me) and never left my side in my downs. He was my constant companion, my anchor, my back up, my safety net, call what you will, always rooting for me and my success and happiness. 

Being a father is a full-time job. And it can be tough at times. Fatherhood involves doing the right thing and showing up for kids every single day. It’s always about “doing what has to be done,” which is never easy.

My father was always there for me. He always showed up. He always did what had to be done. I can say what I am is because of him and his constant presence by my side. And his humanity and helpfulness to others inspire me every day to become a better person. 

I still feel his loss. I still cry. But his example also fuels me to see a shining future — a successful and self-reliant one — for myself. To do what has to be done, regardless of what I’m going through.

I hope my work can impact a good number of people. In that way, I can in a way give back to my father for all that he did for me. 

My father was my closest friend and my support system. I truly realized this when he had gone. He was proud of me and my achievements, and I just hope I create a successful and extraordinary life for myself, a life that I deserve because he was my father.

If you’re going to meet your father this weekend, give him an extra-tight hug for me. Life is fragile and fleeting, don’t take things for granted. 

Enjoy your day, let go of old things, just create some memories with your father and whole family, and take a good number of pictures. 

Happy Father’s Day to all fathers, thank you for all that you do to make your children better people and better citizens of this world. You are beyond awesome!

PS: Whenever I think of my father and how much I miss him, this song beautifully encompasses my emotions and the pain that I feel for his loss.