Last month, we invited students and staff at Grace Emmanuel School to share reflections on their mothers. This month, we turn our attention to fathers.
Across these responses, dads are remembered for putting their families’ needs above their own, being a steady source of encouragement, and quietly showing love through daily provision, guidance, and presence.
As Haiti celebrates Father’s Day on June 28, we invite you to enjoy these reflections from students and staff at GES.
Maudeline, GES secretary
“My dad always taught me humility, and I still apply that everywhere I go.
“He was a man who loved his family. He forgot himself so that he could give us an education. I remember for many years he only owned two pairs of pants and three shirts because all of his money was for us.
“I also remember when we would sit together as a family and he would teach us about God with beautiful counsel that still benefits us today. Those were some of the most beautiful moments I have ever had.”
Wadson, 6th grade teacher
“Some of the things my dad always taught me were to work hard, know my worth, stay positive, respect others, and be wise.
“There was a time when my mom didn’t have money to pay for my school and I was sent home in the middle of the week. After several days like this, God provided. My dad received a call for a construction job because people knew he was a skilled masonry foreman. From then on, I saw the importance of work and the sacrifices my dad made for me.
“My best memory with my dad is from a New Year’s Day when he took us to visit our grandmother. We shared jokes, had pumpkin soup, and drank coffee and ate bread together. It helped me understand the importance of family and love when we are together.
“I always thank God for the father He gave me. May his soul rest in peace.”
Yolanda, 3rd grade teacher
“My dad always taught me to respect everyone, to obey, not to take what isn’t mine, and to always put God first in everything I do.
“His greatest sacrifice was forgetting his own needs to put his family first and working the land to provide for us.
“After my mom died, he never abandoned us. He always cared for me, sent me to school, and met the needs of our family.”
Mathania, 11th grader
“My dad always tells me to respect others, love others, live well with others, and always be good.
“The biggest sacrifice my dad made for me was when I was sick. He didn’t have money to take me to the hospital, so he borrowed money so my mom could take me.
“My best memories with my dad are when we sit together and he tells me about his life. He teaches me what is good for me and we share jokes.”
Gemima, 11th grader
“One of the things my dad teaches me is to love and forgive.
“My dad has made many sacrifices for our family. He always worked hard to give us an education. One time, he even sold land so he could send one of his children abroad to pursue their dreams.
“Once I got sick at school. When they called my dad, he left his work and stayed with me at the hospital. That made me feel like I truly mattered to him, and it made me very happy.”
Martha, senior
“My dad always teaches me to believe in my dreams, to respect everyone, to love everyone, and to share.
“My dad has sacrificed for me since my mom died when I was five years old. He has always fought for us. Even though he was busy with work, he never let his job stop him from taking time to care for us. He made sure we had food, were bathed, and were doing well. My father always wanted us to have a good life. He supports us in our education and helps us succeed.
“My most beautiful memory with my dad is on my birthday, when he helped me have a beautiful celebration so I could enjoy time with my whole family together.”
