A Father's Journey: From Realization to Responsibility
Father’s Day is a time to reflect on the incredible journey of fatherhood, a path that often begins much earlier than the moment we hold our baby for the first time. For me, fatherhood began the instant I learned about my wife's pregnancy. It was at that very moment that I understood I was responsible for not just one life, but two. The realization brought a wave of emotions—joy, anticipation, and an overwhelming sense of responsibility.
During the pregnancy, each day felt like a countdown to meeting our little one. I watched my wife navigate the physical and emotional challenges with immense strength. Despite my eagerness to help, there were moments where I could do little more than share her discomfort and pray for her well-being. Yet, there were also moments of pure joy—hearing our baby’s heartbeat for the first time, and seeing those blurry, magical images on the ultrasound screen. Those glimpses of our baby were reminders of the life growing inside her and my duty to protect and nourish both my wife and our unborn child.
The day our baby was born is etched in my memory as the most beautiful day of my life. Holding my baby for the first time was an indescribable experience, a moment of pure love and connection that I will cherish forever. But amidst the joy, there was also concern for my wife, who was still in the operating room. Thankfully, everything went well, and our family was complete.
That first night, my sister placed the baby in my arms and I barely slept, afraid that he might wake up and need me while I was inattentive. When we brought him home, I faced my first real test as a father. Our baby started crying in the middle of the night, and in our panic, my sister and I rushed to the hospital, convinced he had a fever. The doctors told us he was simply hungry. The guilt I felt in that moment was profound; despite having all the resources to feed him, I hadn't recognized his need. From that day forward, I vowed never to let my child go hungry again.
This experience gave me a deep appreciation for my own father, who must have felt similar worries when I left home for college, not knowing much about my daily life. It also opened my eyes to the struggles of other fathers. Seeing babies crying for food or mothers carrying their children while working or begging fills me with a sense of heartbreak. I realized that providing food and shelter for my child is the most blessed privilege, a gift from the divine.
Inspired by these realizations, I often think about starting an NGO or engaging in community service to support fathers in need. Physical hardships are visible, but the mental anguish fathers feel when they can't provide for their children is often overlooked. This Father’s Day, I acknowledge the unseen struggles and immense love that define fatherhood. To all the fathers out there, may we continue to strive to be the protectors and providers our children need, and may we find ways to support each other in this incredible journey.