Doesn't take much to please dads

IT DOESN'T take a lot to make fathers happy. They won't be asking their children for millions of ringgit; or expensive watches and sumptious dinners at big restaurants and/or five-star hotels. Father's will be happy just to have their children healthy, happy and stay out of trouble and mischief.

Many fathers will tell you that their children give them this, or give them that; some glow with pride when their children succeed in life; some lament endlessly at their offsprings who follow the wayward path to harm themselves and others.

Often, fathers are also a misunderstood lot. The concern for their children is often mistook for control - don't stay up late; be careful who you go out with; don't waste time by sleeping late; exercise; don't do this, don't do that! Alamak! Life sucks, the children will say.

But kids, listen, and listen good. Fathers generally know best. It's been proven time and time again. Fathers don't encourage their children do drugs; live a life of destruction; they may smoke but they tell their children not to! Fathers know best after the tough times they've gone through.

In four days time, it'll be nine years since my father died. It feels like only yesterday I took him to the hospital for treatment; seems like only yesterday he refused me RM3.50 to join friends and neighbours to enjoy a bus ride to Port Dickson for a day by the sea.

It's also like only yesterday he borrowed from the chettiar to buy my school uniform and school bag. His philosophy was simple, and one that I try to follow as best as I can: "Do no harm to others. Respect your elders always. Be the best you can."

And he often whispered: "Live a better life than me. Take your responsibility seriously. Serve God and the community, and you'll do fine."

There are thousands, millions, of fathers out there who want the best for their children. Kids, make your fathers happy by being happy. He probably has less years ahead than you. Learn from him.

Belated Happy Father's Day!!

Karim's on holiday in PD!

KARIM Sulaiman, our one-time Special Project Editor with Berita Harian who's down with a rare skin ailment, scleromyxoedema, is well enough to take a holiday! He's gone to Sri Pena, the NSTP Training centre with a beach in Port Dickson.

I caught up with him on his mobile. He sounded chirpy and very much enjoying his short break with family members. Sri Pena offers a swimming pool and enough rooms to accomodate at least 200 people at any one time.

Karim said he has been told by Malaysian researchers that he is one of 151 people affected by the disease worldwide. He was also told that he was the latest. But in terms of treatment, Karim said he's getting "the safest and the most successful" so far. Even though no cure has been found, Karim's progress has inspired medical researchers to double their work.

In fact, karim's response to treatment has made him a subject of study by skin disease experts. His case will be studied further at two national and international symposiums on skin diseases in Kuala Lumpur and Seoul before the end of the year.

Karim's progress has been very encouraging. Recounting his story, Karim said: "Cik Mad, I can walk the stairs better than a month ago. I can eat better. I've gained another kilo, and my skin is not as taut as before. That's why I can move better too. I'm due for another round of treatment next week."

Karim's progress has partly been due to the support he's been getting from friends and well-wishers. I'm sure we'll continue to give him that support, and we must acknowledge his wife's dedication to look after her ailing husband. God Bless Karim!