I still want a Playstation: my Father’s Day story

The month of September not only means the start of springtime or the football finals series. Most importantly, it is Father’s Day here in Australia. Every year, I look forward to this special day, and to be honest, in all of the jobs that I have had, being a father is the most challenging and the most rewarding. I remember my cousin giving me the low down on what it’s like to be a Dad. He raised two beautiful daughters. I first had reservations about becoming a father. I know the gravity and the importance of the role of a father. Speaking from experience, the father figure I had in my life left before I hit puberty. I had to fend for and figure it all out for myself. Don’t feel sorry for me, though, because after working through my own daddy issues, I raised myself to become the man I need to be.

I can now beat my chest and be proud because, for decades, I was beating myself up and placing blame on the parties involved. I was wallowing in my self-pity and being collateral damage on a storyline that’s been taken from a soap opera. I didn’t forget what they did, but the struggle I went through was one of the best things that ever happened to me. Meron akong ma ipagmamalaki (I have something to be proud of). I started behind the 8th ball, and every year, I keep climbing to new heights; I keep walking through the corridor of life and seeing what door will open and where it will lead me. 

I am here playing the long game and not interested in the short-term pleasure or gain that will affect how this movie ends. People have patterns, and we are predictable. If you follow certain steps, it will give you an outcome, and it will be something you would be either proud of or something you would regret. It may sound preachy or self-righteous, but for us men, we need to work towards our vision for ourselves and our families. We need to work on our issues and speak up. What we do, affects not only the status quo but also the next generation, for better or worse. We will make mistakes and do stupid stuff, but before you make a decision, think about how it will all look 15 years or 30 years from now. What is it going to be like? You may not be Master Hans and cannot predict the future, but you can recognise patterns and have seen enough to expect the next scene. 

To the fathers and father figures, I hope you enjoy your special day. I want to honour and celebrate the OG’s who are at it providing, doing the overtime, surviving on four-hour sleep to keep the electricity on, and continuing to remember to put the bins out. This year, I am hoping for a PlayStation 5 as a gift, but my kids know my love language, and they know I need new socks. Happy Father’s Day to all. Mabuhay ang mga Ama!

Until next time STAY FOCUSED!