Why is it that Father’s Day never seems to get the same respect as Mother’s Day?
Every Mother’s Day, newspapers are brimming with stories about that special mother who did something wonderful, the television screens are full of ads with soothing music and perfect jewellery, flowers, and breakfast-in-bed ideas.
So, what is it about Father’s Day that doesn’t have the same appeal or attraction?
Now don’t get me wrong, I am one who completely appreciates the importance of this day and I know that there are millions around the world that also celebrate its true meaning, not just the hallmark sentiment, so why then, is it that Father’s Day seems to be like a participation trophy in comparison to the first-place medal that seems to belong solely to mothers?
My dad died in 2006 from melanoma so for me, Father’s Day is a bittersweet occasion. Our relationship was complicated, to say the very least. Dad was far from perfect (who among us is?) but there is no doubt all he ever wanted in life was to see his children succeed and be happy and productive adults. He was a man with strong beliefs and was never afraid to let us know when we disappointed him, but I know that he was also our biggest fan and took every opportunity to drive his customers crazy with stories of his children.
As the firstborn, my dad placed huge expectations on me, expectations that I probably didn’t meet most of the time.
So, for me, I saw my dad as too difficult to deal with and probably rebelled far more than he knew how to handle.
Age, marriage, and motherhood have altered my way of looking at my father and what his role in my life meant. It is so easy in hindsight to wax lyrical on my dad’s memory, but the truth is, I really appreciate who he was.
No matter the wall that we both put up at certain times in our lives, because we both shared an inordinate amount of stubbornness, my father was just that… my father…the man who was there at the beginning, was standing behind and encouraging (or gently nudging) me throughout the years and who I had the privilege of being with at his end.
Today, as I watch my husband interact with our daughters, I realise how lucky they are to also have someone who will be behind them to give a gentle shove or to just pick up the pieces.
My hope is that they are given the gift of time to celebrate their father and the impact he has on their day-to-day lives.
So, to all the men in our lives, a very happy Father’s Day.
Your participation ribbon has this year been replaced and your gold medal is in the mail – wear it with pride.
– Samantha Wantling, Warwick Today and Stanthorpe Today manager
