By Utamu Belle
One of my fondest childhood memories of my father, which will remain with me forever, is him carrying me on his shoulders to watch the fireworks display to ring in the new year. I am usually overwhelmed when I get nostalgic about my father, because I realised that spending quality time with him was one of the things that brought joy to my little heart.
Today, we celebrate the unconditional love of all fathers, whether biological or adoptive.
Sunday Times Magazine interviewed two hardworking fathers in Linden for this special Father’s Day feature. They recalled their experiences as fathers and the importance of “being there” for their children.
Joel Gonsalves is a young father of a five-year-old daughter. He admitted that having a daughter has been a bit of a challenge, as he believes “extra care is needed when raising girls”. However, he enjoys every bit of his role as a father.
“Seeing a smile on her face is what brings me happiness. Once she looks through the window and sees me, she would run down the steps and jump up on me. That is what brings me joy; to know that every day I can put a smile on her face. I would give her the world; I would give her everything,” the father declared.
Joel described a “good father as one which sets the right example” and “teaching children that sometimes they may not get everything they want”, a lesson he teaches his daughter.
What irks Joel are fathers who neglect and abuse their children. “I can’t see how anyone can abuse their own blood. I’m very peculiar with my daughter. I’m very protective of her,” he declared.
Joel quipped that his only impediment as a father is that he spoils his daughter.
“What I find is that some parents don’t really have plans for their children’s future. So I would advise them to ensure they do. When you invest in their future and they’re successful, then you have had your reward as a parent,” he urged.
This publication also interviewed Victor Fernandes, father of a 28-year-old daughter. He explained that fatherhood comes with “numerous responsibilities and commitment”.
“As a father, you have a responsibility to nurture and mould the family, give guidance, ensure security in every respect, ensure that financial needs are met and everything is provided for,” the doting father expressed.
Victor said he and his daughter have “always been friends”, because he wants her to feel free to approach him anytime. He gives her advice as a father and also as a friend.
Expressing disappointment in those fathers who have neglected their roles, Victor said: “There are fathers who are not respected because they are absent from their children’s lives. Being a father is a sacred and serious role; it should not be taken lightly.”
