Sheikh Sameer
Sheikh Sameer
Today is a momentous occasion, marking not only the launch of my personal website but also the celebration of my father’s birthday. As fate would have it, this auspicious day falls just one day before World Father’s Day. The synchronicity of these events has inspired me to share a heartfelt tribute to the man who has been the cornerstone of my life. This article is a dedication to my father, whose unwavering support and love have shaped me into the person I am today.
For a long time, I struggled to get my website up and running. As a writer, having a platform to share my thoughts and stories was essential, but technical difficulties and delays kept pushing my dream further away. Finally, on this significant day, my website is live. The joy of this achievement is magnified by the realization that it coincides with my father’s birthday. It’s a beautiful reminder of how deeply intertwined our lives and milestones are.
A Father’s Love: My Guardian Angel
My father is more than just a parent; he is my guardian angel. His love and sacrifices are the bedrock of my existence. In 2009, my life took a tragic turn when I met with a severe accident. The memory of lying on a deathbed in Jammu is etched in my mind. Amidst the chaos and fear, a friend whispered into my ear, “Your Dad wants to talk.” Even in my weakened state, I tried to console my father, telling him that I was alright. Little did I know, my reassurances did little to alleviate his anguish.
My father embarked on a relentless journey to reach me, crying and weeping for my well-being. When I regained consciousness days later, he was a constant presence by my side. He spent lakhs on my treatment without a second thought, determined to see me walk again. His unwavering faith and love were my pillars of strength. After two and a half years of intense therapy and rehabilitation, I was finally able to walk again. My father’s dream had come true. Words cannot express the depth of my gratitude. Thank you, Daddy, for being my hero then and now.
The accident in 2009 was a turning point in my life. It wasn’t just a physical injury; it was an emotional and psychological ordeal. The severity of the injuries left me bedridden and dependent on others for even the simplest tasks. My father’s role during this period went beyond that of a caregiver. He became my motivator, my coach, and my constant source of hope.
Each day, he would encourage me to push my limits. The rigorous physiotherapy sessions were grueling, and there were times when I wanted to give up. But my father’s unwavering belief in my ability to recover kept me going. His presence was a constant reminder that I was not alone in this battle. His sacrifices, both financial and emotional, were a testament to his love and commitment. The journey to recovery was long and arduous, but my father was there every step of the way, guiding and supporting me.
This experience taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, determination, and the power of unconditional love. It made me realize that true strength lies not just in physical ability but in mental and emotional fortitude. My father’s dedication and perseverance were instrumental in my recovery, and they continue to inspire me in all aspects of my life. His actions demonstrated the true essence of fatherhood – selfless love, unwavering support, and an unshakeable belief in one’s children.
Tomorrow, the world will celebrate Father’s Day, a day dedicated to honoring fathers and their contributions. In Kashmir, this celebration often takes place more on social media than in reality. While the age of digitization has its advantages, it’s crucial to remember that relationships cannot be digitized. True bonds are forged through love, care, affection, and an unbreakable connection. Unfortunately, in today’s fast-paced world, many relationships are treated like transactions, valued only when there are tangible benefits.
Kashmir, known as ‘Pir Vear’ or the land of saints, once held deep respect for familial bonds. However, in the past decade, we have seen a decline in this respect. The emergence of old age homes in Srinagar is a stark reminder of how far we have drifted from our values. It’s disheartening to see parents, who once nurtured us, being left alone in their twilight years. We must understand that caring for our parents is not a trend but a duty and responsibility.
The erosion of traditional values in Kashmir is reflective of a broader cultural shift. The influence of modernity and the pressures of contemporary life have led to a change in how relationships are perceived and valued. The community-oriented lifestyle that once defined Kashmir has given way to a more individualistic approach. While progress and modernization are inevitable, it’s essential to strike a balance and preserve the core values that bind us together.
Social media has become a double-edged sword in this context. On one hand, it allows us to stay connected and express our feelings. On the other hand, it can create a facade of relationships that are shallow and devoid of genuine connection. Celebrating Father’s Day on social media with posts and pictures is not inherently wrong, but it should not replace real, meaningful interactions. A post on Facebook cannot convey the depth of gratitude and love that a heartfelt conversation or a warm hug can.
The Teachings of Islam
Islam places immense importance on honoring and respecting parents, especially fathers. The Quran instructs believers to treat their parents with kindness and respect, emphasizing this as a divine decree. Surah Al-Isra (17:23) states, “And your Lord has decreed that you not worship except Him, and to parents, good treatment. Whether one or both of them reach old age [while] with you, say not to them [so much as], ‘uff,’ and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word.” This verse underscores the importance of maintaining a respectful and caring relationship with our parents, regardless of their age.
The teachings of Islam highlight the significance of parental respect and the profound impact it has on one’s spiritual and worldly life. The emphasis on treating parents with kindness and compassion is repeated throughout the Quran and Hadith. This reflects the central role that parents play in an individual’s life and the high regard in which they are held in Islamic teachings.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) provided numerous examples and guidance on how to treat parents. One famous Hadith narrated by Abdullah ibn Mas’ud states, “I asked the Prophet (peace be upon him), ‘O Messenger of Allah, which deed is the most beloved to Allah?’ He said, ‘Prayer offered on time.’ I asked, ‘Then what?’ He said, ‘Kindness and respect towards parents.'” (Sahih Bukhari). This profound teaching highlights that after the obligation of prayer, the next most important duty is to honor and respect one’s parents.
The teachings of Islam are not just theoretical but are meant to be applied in daily life. Showing respect to parents involves practical actions such as speaking to them kindly, assisting them in their needs, and making time for them despite one’s busy schedule. It also means standing by them in their times of need, just as they stood by us during our formative years. In a world where the elderly are often neglected, the Islamic injunction to care for parents serves as a powerful reminder of our responsibilities.
As we celebrate Father’s Day, let us reflect on the true essence of this day. It’s not just about posting pictures on social media or buying expensive gifts. It’s about expressing genuine love, respect, and gratitude towards our fathers. It’s about recognizing their sacrifices and ensuring that they feel valued and cherished.
For those of us in Kashmir, it’s time to revive our traditional values and honor the bonds that have been the foundation of our culture. Let’s make a conscious effort to strengthen our relationships with our parents and elders. Let’s show them that their struggles and sacrifices have not been in vain.
Here are some practical ways to honor and cherish our fathers:
One of the most meaningful gifts you can give your father is your time. Engage in activities that he enjoys, have deep conversations, or simply be present with him. Quality time fosters deeper connections and creates lasting memories.
* Sometimes, we take our parents for granted. Take a moment to express your gratitude. A simple “thank you” can mean a lot. Write a heartfelt letter, share your feelings in person, or create a tribute that acknowledges their contributions.
* Be there for your father in his times of need. Whether it’s accompanying him to a medical appointment, helping with daily chores, or offering emotional support, your presence and assistance will make a significant difference.
* Engage in family traditions and cultural practices that honor your heritage. This not only strengthens familial bonds but also preserves the cultural values that have been passed down through generations.
* Instill the importance of respecting and honoring parents in the younger generation. Share stories of your father’s sacrifices and the values he embodies. By teaching children to respect their elders, you ensure that these values endure.
Beyond our actions, it’s essential to foster a sense of community and collective responsibility. Encourage community events and initiatives that honor and support the elderly. Advocate for policies and programs that provide care and support for senior citizens. By working together, we can create a society that values and respects its elders.
Launching my website on this special day has given me an opportunity to pay tribute to my father, my hero. His love, sacrifices, and unwavering support have been the guiding light in my life. As we approach World Father’s Day, let us all take a moment to appreciate the fathers in our lives. Let us celebrate their contributions and ensure that they know how much they mean to us.
Father’s Day is not just a day of celebration; it’s a day of reflection and gratitude. It’s a reminder of the sacrifices our fathers have made and the love they have bestowed upon us. It’s a call to action to honor and respect them, not just on this day, but every day.
Thank you, Dad, for everything. Your love has been my strength, and your sacrifices have shaped my destiny. On this special day, and every day, I celebrate you. Happy Birthday, and Happy Father’s Day.
As we honor our fathers, let us also commit to fostering a culture of respect and care for all parents and elders. Let’s ensure that no parent feels neglected or forgotten. Let’s build a society that values and cherishes the wisdom and contributions of its elders. Together, we can create a world where every parent feels loved, respected, and appreciated.
In the end, the true measure of our success is not in material achievements but in the love and respect we give and receive from our families. Fathers are the silent pillars of our lives, and it is our duty to honor them with the same love and dedication they have shown us. This Father’s Day, let’s make a commitment to strengthen our bonds and cherish the beautiful relationships that make life truly meaningful.
M S Nazki
The Kashmir Dialogues
