My reflection on Father's Day

The key to the Father’s Day celebration is for men to hear what a difference their love, sacrifice, and commitment make in the lives of their loved ones. The celebration may be simple but it should be a time to reflect on the impact our fathers have had on our lives.
  
If you happen to be fortunate to have your dad with you in your life, lift his spirits by spending time with him: hug him or have an arm-wrestle with him, and share time by sitting down and talking, reminding him of his unique traits or callings, and telling him how much he is appreciated.

Your parents have performed many prayers for you, now it is the role of us, their children, to turn to God and give thanks for the blessings of our parents, for their well-balanced, happy and meaningful lives. A memory made together is a gift that can last a lifetime.

Consider doing something unique that he would like to do with you. Your pitaji (dad) may love to do Yoga – Surya Namaskar, a headstand, cooking in an ancient way and eating outside, bike-riding, walking on the beach or on the trail, any sports, or enjoy the sunset while savouring ice cream together.  

If you are apart, surprise him with a video call, or if you’re together, plan a video call with far-away family members together. Family bonding and getting together in an old-fashioned way is still the best if COVID-19 (Coronavirus) restrictions permit.

Spend some time reflecting (discussing or reminiscing) on the legacy fathers have left or are continuing. Show them what good they have taught you that you value. Remind your dad or parents that the choices you are making today are to carry on a legacy of love, service, care, respect, share, and commitment that will impact generations to come. You want to let them know how much they mean to you and as you grow, you realize more and more the importance of them. To most, the gift of loving experiences are more important than the material things.

Today, I am reading and reflecting on the book on my dad, “Pramanic Jeevan and Dharm Ki Virasat,” and thinking about the legacy I inherited about charity, selfless service and loving all, and how I want to live and leave a similar legacy. 

I am pledging to be aware of the legacy and identifying how it is affecting my life and taking the steps to rectify any negative and enhance the positive (enhancing patience and listening skills).

My parents were simple and believed in me and didn’t tell me how to live or what to do; but they lived a joyful, simple, and generous life and modelled it for me and my siblings. 

Our appreciation for our parents and our appreciation for our dads should be shown with simplicity and greatness.

I truly salute them from the depth of my heart.

-- Photo above is of the author with his son