As I sit here, grappling for words that adequately express my gratitude for mine and the countless fathers who make life a little sweeter, I can't help but empathize with Sarah, a loving daughter who yearned to see her father, who raised her alone, celebrated with the same prowess as mothers on Mother's Day.
Over 100 years later, we have the pleasure of celebrating fathers every third Sunday in June. Yet, even with its great strides, Father's Day has yet to catch up to the overwhelming hype of Mother's Day. Perhaps we can attribute the lackluster celebrations to the 30-year head start Mother's Day had or the crafty minions of commercialization who knew exactly how to tug at our sentimental heartstrings, turning our adoration for mothers into harmonious chords of love that solidify their profit margins year after year.
But it's time to change the narrative. It's time to celebrate fathers and acknowledge the profound sentiment of their love. As a forever daddy's girl, I am here to carry Sarah's torch in hopes that Father's Day will reach its fullest potential. Today, I have the privilege of honoring the boogeyman banishers, the guiding lights, and providers of unwavering support.
In the midst of lackluster Father's Day celebrations on this Sunday, June 18, 2023, where more fathers than not find themselves immersed in work rather than relishing in relaxation, I am fortunate to have the opportunity to capture moments that will forever be etched into the memories of fathers and their children.
Growing up, my uncle was a constant presence,his oversized camcorder perched on his shoulder, always ready to capture every precious memory of my cousins and me. I can still picture myself gazing up at him, seeing nothing but a vibrant yellow shirt, arms outstretched, and that massive black camera. Without those video collections, I might never have known who was behind the camera, painstakingly preserving our childhood moments. As an adult, I find myself wondering: Who was capturing the footage or snapping photos of him as he embraced and savored these precious moments? Much like this holiday itself, his sentiments and ability to be fully present were often overshadowed by his unwavering devotion to documenting the memories of his family.
I embrace my role as a videographer, committed to capturing the essence and significance of fatherhood. Through my lens, I strive to immortalize the genuine love, joy, and connection shared between fathers and their children. I understand the profound impact these captured moments can have, both in the present and as cherished memories for years to come. My desire and dedication to celebrating the heartfelt bonds and the irreplaceable role fathers play in shaping the lives of their children is unyielding.
In the ever-evolving landscape of capturing life's events, the 90s marked a time when including yourself in a video was no easy feat. Fast forward to the present, and we find ourselves armed with cellphones that effortlessly capture and immortalize our most cherished moments. While cell phones have undoubtedly revolutionized our ability to document life,there are still instances where the expertise of an outside observer remains invaluable.
One such occasion where this need becomes most apparent is weddings. As a professional videographer, I was overjoyed when couples began requesting attendees to refrain from having their phones out during the ceremony. This simple request allows the couple and their loved ones to be fully present, savoring the emotional essence of the moment, while I, as a dedicated professional, meticulously capture their precious memories.
While cell phones are undeniably convenient,they come with their own set of challenges. Distractions, compromised quality,and the inability to fully immerse oneself in the moment while documenting it are just a few of the limitations we encounter. This is where the value of a skilled videographer shines. By entrusting the task to a professional, couples can rest assured that every tear, every smile, and every meaningful exchange will be skillfully preserved, allowing them to relive those magical moments time and time again.
Weddings, as a pinnacle of love and celebration, exemplify the need for a professional observer who can seamlessly blend into the background, ensuring that the couple and their guests are free to experience the profound significance of the day. By letting go of the impulse to document every moment themselves, couples create space for genuine connections and create a lasting legacy that goes beyond a blurry cell phone snapshot.
In the tender embrace of a father walking his daughter down the aisle or the proud stance of a father standing next to his son as the best man, we witness the extraordinary bonds that Father's Day holds. These are the moments I am privileged to capture, immortalizing the love, joy, and pride shared between fathers and their sons and daughters on their wedding days.
Father's Day may not always receive the same level of hype and commercialization as its counterpart, but it offers a unique opportunity for fathers to bask in the spotlight. It is the day when their presence, guidance, and unwavering support take center stage, radiating through every step down the aisle or every heartfelt toast given.
As we celebrate this special day, I implore you to seize the moment and express your deepest gratitude and love for your father. Take the time to remind them of the greatness they hold, the impact they have had on your life, and the love that binds you together. Let your appreciation be a heartfelt tribute, honoring the sacrifices they have made and the unconditional love they have bestowed upon you.
May this Father's Day be a reminder of the invaluable role our fathers play in our lives, and may it inspire us to cherish each precious moment shared with them. Celebrate your father like the king he is, for his love and presence are timeless gifts that deserve to be celebrated, not just on this designated day but every day.