FATHER'S DAY

Sunday 16th June passed quietly, though a small group maybe managed to usher that special day declared as a federal holiday in USA since 1972 by Richard Nixon. It's not home grown and therefore the lukewarm participation. Farther we have many celebrations and holidays throughout the year and additions only added to tightening of the belts. Mother's Day celebrated last month and recognized in USA since 9 may 1914. Therefore both are of US origin. Naturally the business sector took upon themselves to promote both Mother's and Father's Day. Valentine's Day has assured florist foremost to reap good business and following that efforts are made toward the parental celebrations. 

Parents would of course be grateful to their siblings who remember them and especially recollect years that they grew with all the sacrifice afforded. Certainly parents who brought up their children pre -Merdeka had little to fall back on except determination. Those that manage to raise children post Malaysia are a happier lot with advantages at their sides. 

The romantics, grateful and thoughtful persons would take upon themselves to appreciate the chance to say 'hello' and 'terima kasih' to their dads and mums which otherwise would be done only during Hari Raya or other celebrations . 

Sadly the elders amongst us would not have a chance to offer thank and sincere appreciations since for sure many of our fathers and mothers have departed. Only memories and 'doa' accompany our thoughts of them.  

Four gentlemen and fathers too at a tobacco stall of a Pasar Minggu helping themselves to the choicest  of quality tobacco and 'daun rokok'. One has a 'rokok daun' clipped to his lips and imagine them smoking away after they left the stall appreciating fresh quality tobacco. Yes fathers have their moments of happiness with the friends.  

I have known him as Che Gu Mat. A former teacher and an octogenarian who still cycled to the kampong Mosque for the daily prayers. Che Gu Mat wouldn't understand our fanciness  for father's day because he already appreciates the goodness of live and the often visitation of his family to their birth place.

Six young people together with a fatherly figure observing the going-on and appreciating that one day they too  will become fathers with all the responsibilities.

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They of course will appreciate what both parents have given them

While these fathers surely receive their dues from their children, they themselves continue to record appreciation to both their parents.

In moment like this we look back at the sacrifices of our soldiers and security personnel who gave their best and fell during serving the nations, leaving young children especially who had hardly known the affections of their fathers.  More so the fond remembrance and affection would be felt when such a day as father's day come by.

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY TO ALL MY FRIENDS.