A Daughter’s Father
I have been away from home for a little under six years. Coming from a tightly knit family, a family that would tease each other around, form teams and annoy the third person, play silly pranks until a big fight broke out, and get shouted upon by dad for breaking things, we had our fair share of loud arguments. But we also made up with apologies and hugs. Throughout my time away, I have missed all the warmth from the countless hugs and kisses.
One thing that often comes to my mind in the mornings is the vivid memory of my dad’s gentle peck on my cheek. Although it feels like a dream that frequently visits me these days, it’s something my dad continues to do even to this day when I am back home. I catch glimpses of him silently walking into my room, a wide smile across his face while I am still groggily trying to awaken from my slumber. Leaning over, he steals a small peck and departs like he had never been there at all. That smile on his face is forever etched in my mind. A cherished memory whenever I think of him.
You see, my father grew up along with us. From thinking that a girl child’s destiny was to marry into a respectable family, to encouraging us to be independent, travel and gather rich experiences with friends and family. He evolved from a young father who frowned upon the notion of girls having male friends or developing teenage crushes and relationships, to someone who now jokes about our past crushes, dismissing complaints from colleges and nosy relatives as if they were insignificant, and trusts our male friends to ensure our safety when we travel or went on college getaways.
From changing his notions on his daughters being primary caregivers to wholeheartedly encouraging us to pursue whatever brings us joy and fulfillment. From initially admonishing the idea of a woman deviating from societal rituals and cultural norms, to embracing the philosophy of individual freedom while respecting others’ choices when it comes to his daughters. Throughout this journey, my dad grew alongside us. We have had numerous arguments about what was right and wrong and still continue to do so, but in hindsight, every single one of those moments was worthwhile.
It truly is remarkable to see my dad’s growth as he ages. While we continue to have conflicting thoughts and beliefs ever so often, not everyone chooses to evolve from their beliefs. My dad makes that choice. And that conscious choice, is what comes from a place of love – love and care that only a father of a daughter can truly comprehend.