Superhero Dads

Sunday, June 21 is Father's Day! Don't forget to recognize the amazing dads in your life - and this year, give them a gift that changes lives! 

Millions of children consider their dad to be their ‘superhero.’ They think that their dad is the one who can ‘do it all’ and can make almost anything happen. And I have to admit - I am most definitely one of those people. Even though my dad and I are complete and total opposites, it’s hard to not get along with the person who has given you everything.

My dad has been the perfect example of hard work, motivation, and inspiration. He has taught me that whenever the pieces fall apart, there is nothing that should stop you from putting them right back together again.  He has shown me what it means to work hard, and that hard work will almost always pay off in the end.

Of course there are millions of other dads around the world who are inspiring their children every day- not just my dad. Take Evans for example. Evans Ssenabuyla started a primary school in Uganda in 2007 and has been inspiring not only his students, but his 3 daughters as well. He has been the perfect example of what it means to be a leader. Evans teaches his children and his students life skills and how important it is to never, ever give up hope. There are over 900 students that attend Ridgeway School, and thanks to Evans the population is growing each and every day. He inspires these children every day and reminds them that they matter- that their education matters.

Motivation is key when it comes to working hard. It is not always easy to stay focused on the prize- but when you do it pays off big time. Patrick Pandi operates a thriving sugar cane farm in Uganda, and is motivated every day by his family to continue working hard. Patrick works extremely hard for multiple reasons, but the main reason is to provide his family with a home. He works tirelessly to be sure that his 7 children are able to attend school and live a happy lifestyle. Although times may get tough, Patrick never stops thinking about his family, and how important it is to provide for them.

So as I sit here and rack my brain for Father’s Day gift ideas, I think about the many things my dad has given me. My dad has given me the advice to never give up on my dreams, the reminder to always believe in myself, and the motivation to keep on going. He has inspired me in more ways than I could ever come up with.

And for that, dad, I thank you.

Ellen is a 2015 Summer Marketing Intern at Opportunity International. When she's not writing for Opportunity, she studies Marketing and PR at the University of Dayton.