Pa - You Knelt Down, So That I Could Celebrate My Everyday.

Once Upon A Time - Pa (Rev. Swamidas) and Me (Sharon Supriya)

It was a long night.
I was suffering from high fever, my body was shivering, I was throwing out, I had no control over the pain and I cried continuously. My mom was beside me, stroking my forehead lovingly. She sometimes walked in and out of the room to ensure the ambulance is at the doorsteps on time.

My sisters were obeying Mumma's commands, one was brushing my feet to warm me, and the other one was trying to help me get up to have some energy drink. I couldn't see my Pa for long time, was just wandering were was he, when I was in such pain. I called up to him, "Pa, pa...". He didn't respond. One of my sisters said, " Shhhh... you rest... don't talk. He is just here."

For a second I thought maybe he is busy getting in touch with ambulance and all that, but I wanted him near me and that frustrated me a bit. After 10 mins or so I felt relaxed, slowly I started sweating, my fever had reduced a bit and even the vomiting sensation. I got up from the bed to wash up, still seeing mom and sisters walking in and out of the house recklessly. While getting back to my room I walked up to every room to find my dad, then I found him in the hall 'knelt before a cross with folded hands and tears in his eyes'. I sat down on the sofa nearby and watched him pray. He was focused, he didn't budge from his position, the only things that kept trickling down was tears from his eyes.

I smiled and cried, because I knew that this combo of love and prayer will get me out of any pain and actually I was feeling better. I walked back to my room and laid down. After few minutes, Pa walked into the room and sat beside me. I wiped his tears and he mine, and we both smiled at each other. 

Ambulance did arrive after 2-3 hours as we lived in a secluded area, and any medical help during those days was always delayed. However, this time I kinda didn't need it, as I already started feeling much better, but mom insisted we did go to hospital for a check. After 15- 20 mins travel in ghat section, I was moved to the hospital. The doctor said there was nothing much to worry and I would be fine in a day.

Today when I look back almost a decade ago, this particular incident has been very close to my heart, only because he exactly knew what he could do best when his little girl was in pain and all immediate help are far from his reach - kneel down and ask his Father for help.

Pa, this Father's Day I want to thank you for every time you knelt down for me. You have been a blessing and my greatest strength and teacher. Your the reason why I celebrate my everyday. I owe a lot to you. And I thank you again for a beautiful life you gifted me. Thanks Pa. Happy Father's Day.

By: Sharon Supriya