My Life Teacher: Father's Day Special

Today, I pulled out one of our photo albums from the cabinet. It was dusty as it remained untouched for a long time since e-photo came to the world. My purpose was to reminisce the good memories I had with daddy. 

This photo was my first birthday, 14 Aug 1986.

If you ask me how many birthdays I had with Dad physically with us.. I'd say, few times. Not sure, actually.

Dad was a seafarer. He spent almost all his life away from home. We didn't have much moments together when we were growing up. He wasn't the one who taught me how to ride a bike. He wasn't there when I learned how to swim. To play the piano, the guitar.

But I never hated him for that. Because growing up, he taught me bigger things.

He taught me to dream for the stars. He taught me to never doubt myself. He said if there's a tiniest chance of getting it, then do it. He taught me not to self-pity. With all his tough love, I grew up having a strong heart. He was a people person and he showed me how having tons of people around looked like. It was fun until you're left alone realizing that not all things are worth it. He said people come and go so be prepared to learn things the hard way (for that matter).

He was my life teacher. He was my hero.

This Father's Day is painful for me to celebrate. Had been cringing since those father's day feels started to kick in. I hope he's with us today. There are no words to describe the heartache I’m feeling and how much I miss him... but that's life now and will never be the same again.

So here's to all the daughters who have lost their father but trying to be a living testimony of their father's greatness! There will be more heartbreaking moments like these so let's brace ourselves and try to cherish we had together.

I love you daddy. This time, I will not wish or wonder if I made you proud. But rather, wish that I made you feel how proud I was of you.

Cheers!