I wanted to write a Father's Day message for my dear Appa. He has made me what I am today and for that I am ever grateful. He gave me all that I have ever needed, most often before I felt the need for it.... right from sending me to boarding school at an early age, even though it broke my parents' heart. He believed that education was very important and that it was his duty to get the best for me. Though he will not admit it, he has pampered me... by buying me things I had not asked for like a two wheeler when I completed high school and a gold watch as a Diwali gift to name a few. He has not only let me choose my educational path and career but also supported me through every step of the way, even when others have thought and said otherwise. He has taught me to be brave and independent, encouraging me to face problems instead of backing off. And when I make mistakes, especially the time it cost us money, he always asks me to take it as an experience and learn from it. He has taught me by example that I can never lose till I accept defeat. Even if I am at the rock bottom or even below, I will always keep trying and never give up. Ever.
So, on this Father's Day, I would like to repeat what I've said to him on many other occasions:
"Dear Appa, if in my lifetime, I am able to be a quarter of the person you are, in terms of character, discipline, perfection, generosity, perseverance, virtues and intelligence, I will deem myself to have been a success in life. I am blessed to be your daughter. I may not know all the small things that you have done for me but I definitely am grateful for them all. I remember the way you used to scoop me in your arms in the backseat of the car, how you used to carry me piggyback up the stairs, how your mustache used to poke when you kissed my cheek, how you used to make me sleep with my feet on your lap while you drove the car.... and I can never forget even for a minute how much you love me. I'm sorry for the hard times I've given you and I'm very grateful that you still love me in the same way in spite of it all. Happy Father's Day Appa. You are simply the best! "
So, on this Father's Day, I would like to repeat what I've said to him on many other occasions:
"Dear Appa, if in my lifetime, I am able to be a quarter of the person you are, in terms of character, discipline, perfection, generosity, perseverance, virtues and intelligence, I will deem myself to have been a success in life. I am blessed to be your daughter. I may not know all the small things that you have done for me but I definitely am grateful for them all. I remember the way you used to scoop me in your arms in the backseat of the car, how you used to carry me piggyback up the stairs, how your mustache used to poke when you kissed my cheek, how you used to make me sleep with my feet on your lap while you drove the car.... and I can never forget even for a minute how much you love me. I'm sorry for the hard times I've given you and I'm very grateful that you still love me in the same way in spite of it all. Happy Father's Day Appa. You are simply the best! "
