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| Photo by the Author |
My dad arrived in the Philippines just in time for Father’s Day to come around again this year. I remember running at the sight of him waving to us at the airport. At that moment, I felt nothing but happiness and excitement—and also relief—that he was finally home. After months of hard work and being away from his family, he had time to rest his limbs, pursue his passion projects, and bond with us again. I couldn’t help but compare him to a superhero; one who never fails to fulfill his duty to his family—to be the rock, to be that light of hope that everybody looks up to, even at the cost of his own comfort.
For as long as I can remember, my dad has always been a fan of superheroes. He would often invite us to watch hero films—whether it be the Avengers or the Justice League. He loves collecting mini toys and changing his wallpaper into the heroes he adores so much. And in turn, we would also gift him shirts and other items themed alike. The stories of heroes are something I’ve also become fond of. Their tales of bravery, loyalty, and justice became a shared source of enjoyment and inspiration for my dad and our whole family. But more so, Dad’s enthusiasm for superheroes made me realize how Dad is also a superhero in his own right.
One of Dad’s favorite figures was Captain America, who is well-known for his unyielding character and strong sense of justice. I’m pretty sure everyone loves Captain America. Who doesn’t, right? His overall aura gives you the feeling that everything will be alright. Much like my father, he believes that all things can be worked out in the end as long as you give your all. As his famous line goes, “I can do this all day.” I believe that my perseverance was something I embodied after my dad. I always think that all problems have solutions and that all broken things can be fixed. My father taught me a different kind of strength—to believe and to stand firm.
Dad is also fond of Aquaman, which I believe is no mystery. Similarly, I’ve always thought that Aquaman was a suitable representation of my father. Most of it was because of his deep connection to the ocean as a seafarer. But more than that, he shares his compassionate and fun personality with the hero. In contrast with the rigidity of Captain America, Aquaman and my father are both spirited and playful. Life’s challenges and difficulties should not deprive you of happiness. As my father had always shown me, take it easy and enjoy the journey as it goes on.
Just like Captain America and Aquaman, my father fearlessly faced any obstacle that came his way. He is not always outright in expressing his feelings, but I know how much he sacrificed for us—how hard it is to be miles away from your family, how lonely it gets, and how tiring it must’ve been. I will always commend the bravery and strength that my father always shows us. Even more, I will always be grateful for the unconditional and selfless love that he offers us. As what my father always say, “Kahit wala nang para sakin, basta meron kayo.”
To our Dadi Josan,
You taught me that I don’t need any superpowers to do the impossible. I can do anything as long as I have the wit, determination, and hope. Thank you for always believing in me—for always seeing how great I am, even on times I doubt myself.
You don’t have to be Captain America or Aquaman, because, in our eyes, you are already the best superhero life can give us. We love you, Dadi, and Happy Father’s Day!
