This weekend across the nation fathers will again occupy the “seat of honor” with the observance of Fathers’ Day each third Sunday of June.
When the custom began a century ago, fathers were basically viewed as primary if not sole breadwinners as Black families of that era in particular worked mainly in the fields, coalmines, on railroads, as teachers or in other primary professions. Others assumed professions in teaching, at hotels, or more independently as preachers or other such more independent entrepreneurs.
Few Black fathers of that era were able to receive education while supporting their family resulting in those fortunate enough to do so being primarily females as the males were primarily needed in the fields and/or at other hard labor.
Consequently a disproportionate number of educated Black females returned from predominantly White colleges and universities during that era with the choice of marrying uneducated males or remaining a spinster–as many chose to do. The adverse effects on the offspring of these “unequally yoked” couples, socially and academically, were frustrating, to say the least, as few are taught to respect and/or appreciate the accomplishments of the other.
As the playing field began to level with more education of Black fathers, respect and appreciation began to increase adding new impetus to Fathers Day, weakened only in recent years by the increasing acceptance of single-parent teens, school dropout dads and welfare programs designed to help young unwed mothers continue their education or just survive–which would cease should they get married. I feel certain that more updated systems must surely be in place today that include agencies, organizations and many religious entities who join in celebration of Fathers’ Day for all fathers!
Webster’s many definitions of the word “father” include: “One who has begotten a child; a male parent, or one who provides care as a father might; a title of honor given to men who establish anything important in human affairs; or a man who occupies an unusual place in history,”– as Carter G. Woodson is referred to as the “Father of Black History,” or James Brown as the “Father of Soul.” Yet, in the Holy Bible we find: ”And call no man your father upon the earth; for One is your Father which is in heaven.” (Mathew 23:9).
Today, as in ages past, fathers are once again heralded and honored as warriors despite centuries of evidence of its increasingly long-term devastating effects. However, we are urged in this new Baha’i Revelation: “When a thought of war comes, oppose it with a stronger thought of peace! A thought of hatred must be destroyed with a more powerful thought of Love!
This Father’s Day may we also strive to rid ourselves of “the pith of self, ego and misguided emotions that the pure Love of God may flow through us to others– to the fathers, mothers and children of today–who need love more than ever!
