*Special Feature*
By George Ozalla
Today, families around the world celebrate Father’s Day, a special occasion that honors the selfless love, dedication, and responsibility of fathers in our lives. Father’s Day has its roots in the United States, where Sonora Smart Dodd, inspired by the success of Mother’s Day, wanted to honor her father, William Smart, a Civil War veteran and single parent who had raised her and her five siblings. The first Father’s Day celebration was held at the YMCA in Spokane, Washington. Afterwards, Father’s Day gained popularity and became a global event.
As we reflect on the importance of fatherhood, we are reminded of the significant role that fathers play in shaping the lives of their children and families. A father’s influence extends far beyond providing for the material needs of his family. He is at the same time a pillar of strength, a source of guidance, and a model of character for his children. Through his exemplary words and actions, a father ought to teach his children valuable life lessons, such as integrity, hard work, and compassion. One of the most important lessons a father can teach his children is the difference between wants and needs.
I recall a story about a father who refused to buy his teenage son the latest smartphone, despite the son’s persistent requests. The father explained that the phone at that little age was a want, not a need, and that the son needed to earn the money to buy it himself when he is matured. The son was initially disappointed, but eventually, he learned the value of hard work, delayed gratification and responsibility. He later took up a part-time job and earned enough to buy the phone. This experience taught him that life is not about getting everything we want, but about working hard for what we need.
This story highlights the importance of discipline in parenting. Discipline is not about being mean, harsh or punitive, but about teaching children the skills and values they need to become responsible adults in future. Fathers, out of genuine love play a crucial role in setting boundaries, enforcing rules, and encouraging their children to take responsibility for their actions. In addition they help their children develop self-discipline, resilience, and a strong work ethic.
However, many fathers struggle with finding the right balance between being supportive and being strict. In modern day society, peer pressure can be quite overwhelming, and children are often tempted to prioritize material possessions and social status over values and principles. Fathers must be vigilant and proactive in guiding their children through these persistent challenges.
One of the most significant challenges facing fathers today is the pressure to overindulge their children because they want to prove that they can effectively provide for them. With the rise of consumerism and social media inordinate attention, children are constantly bombarded with messages telling them that they need the latest gadgets, clothes, and toys to either belong or compete with their peers! Fathers must resist the temptation to give in to these demands and instead focus on providing their children with what they truly need.
The Holy scripture reminds us, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6). This verse shows the importance of parental guidance and the lasting impact that fathers can have on their children’s lives. Constantly teaching children at early stage of life the values of hard work, responsibility, and self-discipline, fathers can help them develop into capable and responsible adults.
In addition to discipline, fathers also play a critical role in shaping their children’s emotional and psychological well-being. Children who have a positive relationship with their fathers tend to have higher self-esteem, better social skills, and greater emotional intelligence. Fathers can foster this relationship by spending quality time with their children, listening to them, and showing them love and affection.
It is essential to recognize that Father’s Day is not just about biological fathers, but also about stepfathers, foster fathers, father figures, grandfathers, and other male role models who play a significant role in the lives of children or wards. These individuals provide love, support, and guidance, and help shape the next generation of leaders, sound critical thinkers, and good citizens.
As we celebrate Father’s Day, we honor the men who have made a positive impact on our lives. We recognize the sacrifices that fathers make for their families, often putting the needs of others before their own. We pray for fathers, that they may be blessed with wisdom, patience, finance, and strength as they overcome the challenges of parenthood.
As we continue to celebrate today and indeed always, let us bear in mind that the role of fathers in shaping the lives of their children cannot be overemphasized. Inculcating the habit of teaching children the values of hard work, responsibility, and self-discipline, fathers can help them develop into capable and responsible adults that can in turn help shape the larger society. Let us express gratitude to fathers for their love, support, and guidance. May their influence inspire us all to become better versions of ourselves, and may we strive to create a society that values and supports the important role of fathers in our lives.
With responsible and role model fathers at the helm, families are better equipped to face life’s challenges and celebrate its triumphs. Collectively pondering on the importance of Father’s Day, we keep in mind the enduring impact that fathers have on their children’s lives and by extension- the society! Happy glorious Father’s Day to all wonderful fathers!
Ozalla is the Publisher & Editor-in-Chief of Newscount…
