Honouring fathers: Recognising those who are due

A father’s role in the home or in a family can never be underestimated, more so, in these times when children need maximum protection, guidance and direction for their proper development. Sometimes, by mentioning a child's surname, he or she can be easily identified because of the father’s name. 

Honouring fathers is, therefore, important not only because of the role they play, but, equally essential, to give honour to whom it is due. Fathers assume different important roles which when executed well, bring honour to a family and society at large. 

Role models

Many children look up to their fathers and easily grow up to be like them; in terms of taking after their characters, mannerisms, behaviours or even their profession. That is why it is extremely crucial for fathers to be cautious with their lives and the choices they make as they have generational impacts. Many fathers have done exceptionally well by raising their children not only to become responsible and respectable adults, but also to take up to their profession as doctors, teachers, businessmen, lawyers, farmers among others.

The patience and the love with which a father would advise his children is always exceptional, making his counselling role different. A dad would always say it as it is but with love. Such counselling gives children a great sense of direction, especially if they are treading on treacherous grounds. 

When I was a child, I could not wait to show my terminal results to my dad because hearing those words from him “well-done my daughter, I am proud of you” always encouraged me to be the best in my class.

Discipline and authority 

A father's discipline though may be fearsome sometimes, is always important in the home. Children can sometimes become familiar with their mothers and may as a result, downplay certain instructions from them. This makes the presence of a father highly important in exerting further pressure or influence on instructions given at home. He serves as the one with the final authority in the family. This is why children must honour and appreciate a father’s authority in their lives and never take them for granted, hence the saying “a king’s child is the one whose father is alive”.

I take this opportunity to wish my father, Mr S. K. O. a Happy Father's Day. Dad, I appreciate and thank you for your continuous guidance and care all these years, and, in addition, I wish all fathers and would-be fathers, a Happy Father's Day. God bless you all for your support and affection.... Ayekoo......