Last night, I called Baba in Egypt to wish him a Happy Father’s Day. He was excited I called (because he forgot to tell me he was going to Egypt for the summer) because he had forgotten it was Father’s Day. Of course, we ended up having our usual political and religious conversation. I then spoke with my older cousin Mohamed, a father of five, whom I consider a father figure.

After all the phone calls last night between Egypt and California (my poor phone bill), I feel asleep in awe of how something as simple as a phone call can uplift someone’s spirits. I feel asleep reflecting on all the amazing fathers I know.

I had written on a similar reflection back in 2009, Praises for Fathers, the first Father’s Day after the passing of our Amuh Ibrahim.

This year, my little brother became a father for the first time to beautiful baby Salem. He has made us uncles and aunties for the first time too. And boy do we have giant footsteps to follow…

Baba’s relentless struggles to do all that he could for his children.

Mama’s simple amazement of being both a mother and father to her children.

The uncle’s dedication to pave a life long path for my cousins, siblings and I.

The cousin’s unity, many of whom are both fathers and uncles to amazing children of their own.

I know my siblings and I have a lot to learn from you. And for that, I thank you. I pray you all had a great day of celebration on this highlighted day of celebrating the gratitude we hold for the blessing that is you, every day.