Thinking about the upcoming occasions next week makes me feel emotional. Yes, emotional. Why? Because on Wednesday next week, June 11, is my dear father’s birthday. And on Sunday is Father’s Day. It’s always a double celebration for us!

For me, my father Roger is a wonderful father. Even though he’s just an ordinary worker, he makes it sure that his family is well-taken care of. He brought us up in fairness and proper discipline. I misunderstood him sometimes when I was growing up. He got strict that for me is unreasonable. But as I get older, I understand the reason why. Now that he has grandchildren, I can see in his eyes how much he loves them. I miss my Tatay…and my Mama too. Now that I am far away from home, with a new family, the inspiration that my father has given us will always remain in my heart.

Let’s face it, fathers have the toughest role in the world. Aside from working hard to keep their family intact, fathers carry great responsibility as far as family welfare is concerned. Children look up to their fathers for advice…mothers are always beside these great men to support their wise decision-making. Although our fathers give us hard time sometimes, it doesn’t mean they don’t care for us. In fact, they love us.

Cheers to all the fathers all over the world! And Happy Birthday to my Tatay!