By Dr Noel Maturlu
In nature, both lion and lioness hunt—but their roles differ. The lioness tracks prey, nourishes the cubs, and sustains the pride. But the lion stands alone at the gate. He fights rivals, fends off threats, and lays down his strength so others can sleep safely.
When age, illness, or weakness comes, the lion loses his place. He wanders alone. No crown. No applause. No one to protect him—because he spent his whole life protecting everyone else.
And in this, many fathers are lions.
Fathers also hunt—literally and metaphorically. They wake early, stay late, and break their backs to ensure their families lack nothing. They shield their loved ones from harm, even when it costs them comfort, youth, and sometimes their health.
And yet, society often forgets to applaud their sacrifices. Fathers die younger than mothers, on average by six to eight years—perhaps because silent sacrifice comes at a cost.
I remember my own lion.
My father passed away four years ago, but his roar still echoes in my bones. He was a real hunter—gun in hand, heart full of purpose—providing for a household of nine children. He didn’t just bring home food; he brought home dignity. Though quiet and unassuming, he was a fierce protector, a loving provider, and an exemplary school teacher.
He taught us that strength has no gender. At home, he cooked. He cleaned. He educated. He fathered us not with fear, but with faith and compassion. Even when the world gave him no credit, we knew—we saw. And today, I stand proud to bear DNA, his name and to carry both the teaching mantle and the fathering torch.
This is for you, Dad. And for every dad whose care is too often uncelebrated. Your work may go unnoticed, but it cannot be erased. Your early departure may feel unfair, but your legacy lasts beyond a lifetime.
You are the lion. And lions, though they die sooner, live forever in the ones they’ve raised.
To the hunters, the protectors, the teachers, and the torchbearers—your roar matters.
May the love of God and His peace, which surpasses all human understanding, fill your heart now and always.
