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Tomorrow, Sunday, June 16, is 'Father's Day 2024!' Father's Day, which began as a largely religious observance and has been recognized in some form dating back to the Middle Ages, is now celebrated in more than 111 countries, with its first official celebration on June 19, 1910.
A traditional Roman Catholic holiday to celebrate fatherhood, Father's Day is "celebrated on the third Sunday in June each year." Clearly, the day is meant to recall and recognize the tireless efforts, initiatives, and contributions of fathers everywhere. It symbolizes the bond of kinship, affection, guidance, and patience between fathers and their families.
Fathers are the heads and role models of their families. Even in psychological terms, father figures set the moral tone of households. When challenges arise to test family loyalty, it is often the father who risks everything with unwavering resolve to uphold masculine virtues.
Etymologically, 'husband' derives from words meaning 'cultivate', 'tend', or 'nurture'. Thus, the term signifies the male head of a household, the manager, and the steward—the one who nurtures with devoted love cultivates family life and tends to the well-being of the household.
Fathers are not insignificant figures. They possess the strength and wisdom to establish strong foundations for their children. Though some may fall short, most fathers strive earnestly. Despite negative stereotypes, an ideal father or husband embodies qualities reflective of the Almighty Creator.
In an article titled 'Appreciating a Responsible Father', I described a father as "an important genetic source for a child" and "their first teacher," emphasizing a father's role in lovingly nurturing and providing for their children. Since "children are a heritage from the Lord," a good father not only imparts knowledge but also wisdom through heartfelt conversations and the teachings of God's Word.
According to Wade Boggs, "Anyone can be a father, but it takes someone special to be a dad." Many cherish fond memories of their fathers—how they loved, taught, and corrected, guiding them toward a fulfilling life. In remembering my father, Sunday Alaba Komolafe, who passed away on August 11, 2020, and was laid to rest on September 11, 2020, I recall his role as a peacemaker and a visionary for our family's future.
Despite the few who fail in their paternal duties, the majority of fathers are responsible providers who take their roles seriously. Father's Day celebrates these ideal fathers, recognizing that irresponsibility often stems from dysfunctional backgrounds lacking positive role models.
During these challenging times of social and economic instability, men must persevere and remain positive for their families. This Father's Day calls for investment in the future generations of fathers through education and mentorship.
In recent decades, programs for empowering girls have flourished, yet there remains a notable absence of similar support for boys and young men. We must revive initiatives that prepare boys for manhood, ensuring they grow into responsible husbands and fathers.
Nigeria laments a scarcity of fatherly figures compared to earlier decades, contributing to a decline in moral values. The restoration of strong fatherly influence is crucial for societal rejuvenation.
May the Lamb of God, who removes the sins of the world, grant us peace in our time!
