Hey, it's Father's Day today.

How do one become a good Father? 

Bitterness aside, I really don't know.

I see única hijas like me around me and they seem to see their dad as the best person in the world. They pattern the traits of their would-be husbands after their dads.  I envy them.  

Bitterness aside, I really don't know. 

I grew up seeing women in our family establish our family.  They make the decisions and the fathers are only consultants - worse, not consulted at all.  They are the breadwinners, the bearer of values, the gatekeepers, and most of all the one who decides if you're allowed to go out with your teenage friends and how much allowance you're allowed to have today. So if you ask me what was the Father's role in the family?

Bitterness aside, I really don't know. 

I used to pretend that my dad was my best friend. He get's me out of trouble by simply not telling mama about it.  He drove for me when I didn't know how to drive for myself.  He, at certain times, worked hard to buy me things I need/want. He was actually there when the time calls for it. We have a just-ok relationship and I think I got my artsy vibes from him.  These actually begs the question: are those the only roles a dad should fulfil?

Bitterness aside, I honestly don't know. 

But what I know is that my older brother turning out to be a great dad to his two kids.  I am surprised and at the same time impressed! I have seen in his eyes genuine love - the constant need to ensure his family's safety and to provide for them. I think those are enough as proof to be a good father.

So to you, Kuya, Daddy, Tatay, Titos and all the dads I know - Happy Father's Day!