In Loving Memory of My Father — On Father’s Day

Writer: Niaz Murshed Chowdhury

Father’s Day is a reminder of the man who was not only my father, but also the safest place my heart had ever known.

I was born a twin. Since it was difficult for my mother to take care of both of us at the same time, my father took full responsibility for raising me. From the very beginning, he became my comfort, my protector, my caregiver, and the foundation of my life.'

He would come home from work exhausted, yet still spend the night beside me, caring for me with endless patience. I still remember those childhood days so clearly. My brother and I would sleep on both sides of him, and in the morning, our little feet would often be resting on his chest or near his head. He never complained. He carried everything with quiet love, the kind of love only a father can give.

When he became seriously ill, I was busy applying to universities in the United States. I could not be by his side the way I wanted to be. Later, when he was admitted to the hospital, I was blessed to care for him closely for a few precious days.

Still, a quiet guilt remains in my heart. I feel that I could not serve my father the way he silently and lovingly served me throughout my life.

Now, I have completed my PhD in Economics and am working for the California Department of Public Health as Lead Reseacher  in the United States. My twin brother Riaz is pursuing his PhD in Evolutionary Biology-Genomics at the University of Houston.

Baba, we are walking the path you once dreamed for us. We carry your love, strength, sacrifices, and prayers in everything we do.

You may no longer be in this world, but you have never left my heart. You live in my memories, in my work, in my dreams, and in every decision I make.

On this Father’s Day, I pray to Allah to grant you Jannatul Ferdous, the highest paradise. Please continue to pray for us from where you are, so that we may become people who serve humanity with sincerity, walk with compassion, and never turn away from those in need.

Baba, you will always be the address of my heart.