To my First Hero...

Who is your hero?

It's a question we've all encountered at various stages of life, from school presentations to casual conversations. As we grow, our answers may change, but for those fortunate enough to have strong and admirable role models, a certain someone remains a constant presence. In my life, that someone is my Dad, affectionately known as "Tha" in my family, a term of endearment in Sinhalese that means "Thathi."

While it may sound cliché, it's often the case that we take the central figures in our lives for granted, especially when they are as dependable and unwavering as my Tha. As his birthday approached, I found myself contemplating the perfect gift for the "man who seems to have everything"—a superhero in my eyes. I could have opted for a small token or a more extravagant gesture, but I realized that the most meaningful gift I could give him is simply my appreciation.

It's not just about saying "I love you" or sharing hugs every day, although those daily gestures are undoubtedly important. It's about openly acknowledging that he is my hero, as loudly as I can, because he truly deserves it.

So, here I am...

Dear Tha,

You are my hero.

As I prepare to graduate and embark on my final semester and other life endeavors, I know you take pride in my achievements. However, I want you to know that I am equally proud to call you my Tha, not just within the confines of our home or college, but in every aspect of my life, including my professional journey. I cannot think of a better reference point for life's hard lessons, effective cross-cultural communication, work-life balance, setting priorities, unwinding, and even the occasional humorous misstep. Your presence in the professional sphere continues to inspire and educate me, guiding me to become a better leader and a more compassionate human being.

I've witnessed your dedication throughout my life, often in quiet and subtle ways, because you never let me see you openly struggle. As I've grown older, I've come to appreciate the sacrifices you've made out of love, providing me with a stable and secure home environment. You've instilled in me the confidence to dream big, aim high, learn from failures, give my best, and let go of the rest. You've shown me the importance of standing up for my beliefs, prioritizing family, and nurturing unwavering faith and values. Your bold determination to do what is right, your unwavering commitment to solving problems, and your genuine concern for people have left an indelible mark on me. Your relentless efforts to ensure I receive a good education and a secure future when I couldn't provide it for myself speak volumes about your character.

Sure, you have your flaws, as all superheroes do, but you are the perfect Tha, my Tha. You've given me the confidence to be myself and pursue my dreams because you've consistently filled my life with love. You've shown me the way, and it's clear that when God created you, He knew you would be an extraordinary father.

I love you, Tha, and on this special day marking another year of your life, I am grateful that you were born.

Love,

Tigi

And that, my friends, is the story of my first hero, Tha.