by Dr Rahim Said
In reading Fathers and Their Wisdom, I was deeply moved and reminded of my father’s quiet strength and enduring wisdom. A man who raised 11 children on just RM300 a month, his material resources were scarce, but his guidance was boundless.
On the night before I left to study in the United States, he offered me words I’ve carried with me ever since: “Son, tomorrow you’ll leave for New York, but remember, God exists in America too.” It was a simple yet profound reminder that no matter how far I ventured, I would never be alone — faith and values would always be my compass.
This anthology of 26 poignant essays beautifully encapsulates the essence of paternal love and wisdom from fathers across different walks of life. Each essay is a heartfelt tribute to men who, like my father, lived their lives guided by humility, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to their families.
From diplomats and educators to civil servants and community leaders, these fathers shared the same goal: to nurture their children with love, teach them integrity, and shape them into responsible, well-rounded individuals.
Among the many touching essays, Khairy Jamaluddin’s tribute to his late father, Datuk Jamaluddin Abu Bakar, in Gone Too Soon, resonated with me deeply. Khairy eloquently captures the essence of a man who shaped Malaysia’s diplomatic standing while serving as a moral compass to his family.
His father’s legacy, marked by integrity and service, mirrored the quiet strength and resilience my father displayed throughout his life. Reading it, I was reminded that fatherhood is often a thankless role, yet its impact reverberates through generations.
Fathers and Their Wisdom is more than a collection of memories; it is a testament to the timeless influence of fathers. These are not just men who provided, but who led by example, imparting lessons that would guide their children long after they were gone.
My father, like the ones chronicled in this book, may not have had much in the way of material wealth, but he gave me everything that truly matters: faith, purpose, and a belief that decency and hard work will guide you through life’s toughest moments.
For anyone who has ever felt the quiet but profound push of a father’s love and wisdom, this book is a treasure. It offers a rich tapestry of reflections that will inspire, comfort, and perhaps even stir a few tears as you revisit the invaluable lessons you too have learned under your father’s care.
Through these stories, we are reminded that fatherhood is not about perfection but presence — a steady hand, a quiet word, and the enduring gift of wisdom passed down from one generation to the next.
Dr Rahim Said is a human behaviourist and regular contributor to digital media platforms. He is a professional management consultant, a corporate trainer and an executive coach specialising in coaching senior executives and individual entrepreneurs to modify their behaviour and pursue their cherished missions. (The views expressed by our columnist are entirely his own)