Father dear father

Fathers are very special to their daughters and vice versa, as SHWETA SIROHI GUPTA when talking to friends this Father’s Day

It is astounding how much can transform in one’s life within a year... how superficially everything can appear to be precisely the same, but actually nothing will be the same ever again. Most days glide by overlooked, impeccably flowing as we barely remember them. But this Father’s Day is an occasion for me to revive precious memories and certainly, all the reminiscences and years of recollections come to the fore. Some people demonstrate certain traits that help them stand out in a crowd. When it comes to my father, it was his sanguinity. He might have undergone self doubt during a phase of his life, but then, who hasn’t? It was his faith that actually helped him sail through the most difficult stage of his life, in which he witnessed the biggest cataclysm in his private and professional life. He stood like a rock through all his dilemmas. At the age of 56, when many would unwind and muse over about the life they’ve spent, I’ve seen my father revive his life all over again. And what’s special was that even through the troubled and testing times he has had, he in no way lost his wittiness. Righteous, amusing and amiable - in the present day my father stands elevated before me as my life’s supreme motivation. And ever since I have walked this earth, I’ve yet to stumble upon anyone who can match up to my father - my hero!

My father is far away from us today. As I sit here alone, I recall memories of him and days spent with him. I think of several birthday dinners, as he loved inviting people over for his own birthday. Of all the cakes purchased secretly from limited pocket money; of the nights I would stay up late as a child, just to have a glimpse of him; of all the hugs that gave me comfort; of all the beautiful letters he wrote to me to ease my heartaches. I remember it all today. I am not even distantly ‘recovered’ from this loss in my life. However, I have stopped being gloomy over his permanent absence now. I know he is watching me from among the stars and his eyes shine when he watches me smile.

Time drifts on, the seasons alter as they should, festivals and birthdays come and go. But life goes on and I remember you, Papa. Happy Father’s Day. Thank you for a lifespan of love. Through easy and turbulent waters, you remain my source of faith, happiness and comfort. Did I ever tell you that your love, like a compass, for eternity leads me home? Although life has stopped us from seeing each other, you’re still and will always be as much a component of my life as ever, Papa . . . and I love you – more than ever.

Manasi Chitranshi