This One is for my Father

One sunny, spring afternoon in Westchester, New York, my father had picked me up from from school after I completed a 2nd grade spelling test. “Are you the smartest in the class?” He asked.

I was not. I was perhaps second in the class (if there was such a thing in elementary school). When I told him, he asked why I wasn’t number one. From an outsider’s point of view, you probably see this as harsh. But it wasn’t. That is my father, and that’s how we were all brought up. It’s a different tune from what most kids growing up in the US experience, but to tell you the truth, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Everything happens for a reason — if there is a mantra I live by, or a religion I follow, that’s it.

Who I am today is a combination of all the failure and success I have experienced. And my father is a big part of who I am. Throughout my childhood, he believed in me and encouraged me to be the best. Cheering my success and guiding me past my failures. 

This man truly cares for each and every one of his children and hated to see any sort of sadness brought upon us. And he still does.

I owe a lot to my father. He’s the sole reason I developed such a strong work ethic. He pushed me extremely hard because he cared for us, our future. At 78, he is still working — and I guarantee he will continue to work for the rest of his life. I just hope I can put his mind at ease that I’ll do whatever it takes to make sure our family will always be comfortable, but more importantly happily together — even if we are living in all different parts of the world. I’ve always just wanted to make him proud.

So, here’s to ensuring that this new chapter we embark on is a successful one — whatever that may take. And one that is dedicated to him. Cheers, Baba.