Celebrate Dad, Baba, Patera, Pappou, Nono, Thio
Celebrate Dad, Baba, Patera, Pappou, Nono, Thio
Fathers give more than they’re often given credit for. As we approach Father’s Day, let’s take a look at just what is a father, and his important role. Let’s get ready to celebrate him!
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Father: dictionary definition
What is a father? Oxford Languages gives us several definitions of the word “father”.
Noun: (1) a man in relation to his child or children; (2) an important figure in the origin and early history of something; (3) a man who gives care and protection to someone or something; (4) the oldest or most respected member of a society or other body; (5) (in Christian belief) the first person of the Trinity; God; (6) (often as a title or form of address) a priest; (7) early Christian theologians (in particular of the first five centuries) whose writings are regarded as especially authoritative.
Verb: (of a man) cause a pregnancy resulting in the birth of (a child)
What does it all mean?
Well, Father could mean God. It could refer to founding fathers or theologians or thought leaders, think “Church Fathers” or “Father of our country”, kind of thing. It could be in reference to your priest/spiritual father. We’ll always give reverence to God as the father of all. So we’ll celebrate Him first and foremost. But today, let’s chat about the mortal men, those who raise children (biological and otherwise). Coming up this year on June 20, we’ll celebrate these special men.
Father’s love
Over the years, as society has changed, so has the role of the father. For years, fathers worked exclusively outside the home and mothers worked exclusively inside the home--keeping the house and caring for the children. Parental roles have evolved over the years, with in some cases, less physically demanding work for fathers, and mothers taking jobs outside the home. Today’s fathers actively participate in things once left to the mothers: cooking, keeping the house, caring for children. Many adults look back and say, “My dad worked all the time. I rarely saw him.” Today’s children get the benefit of having more time to spend with their dads.
Today we even have dads that raise kids alone, without mothers. Dad’s role has changed, but his importance in our lives has not. Our fathers give us so much. We learn things from our mothers, we learn other things from our fathers. Many of us can say we wouldn’t be where we are without the presence and influence of our fathers. Fathers have different gifts than mothers. And we take away important lessons from both. Fathers love us, guide us, protect us, in a different way than mothers. And we love them both for making us the people we are.
Maybe you had an uncle, a family friend, who served as a father figure, imparting important advice or guidance. Maybe you lost your dad young, or never knew him. Father figures, now more commonly lumped into the more generic term, “mentors”, are vital to us as well.
Godfather
Your Godfather, alongside your Godmother, has walked with you in your faith. He’s been there for advice. To set a good example. Celebrate your Nono—Godfather, too!
Pappou
What does a father wish to be when he grows up? A pappou! Becoming a grandfather is a tremendous blessing. Those who’ve been blessed with a grandfather—or two—can tell you just how much these men mean to them. Grandparents are often retired, and don’t have the direct responsibility of parents. There’s more time to play, spend time, tell stores, impart wisdom. These sage individuals bring it all full circle.
Father’s Day is coming up
Since 1910, on the third Sunday in June, we’ve celebrated our fathers, grandfathers, Godfathers, and father figures. How will you celebrate Dad? Pappou? Nono? Hint: Dad doesn’t want a tie or a golf ball.
Kantyli-Custom Greek Gifts can help you create the perfect gift for that special man in your life. Check our website for frames, aprons, coffee mugs, and more. How about a personalized gift? Or, let’s create something customized Greek gift for your unique dad, pappou, or nono. A road sign from his ancestral village? A “We Love You Baba” picture frame with all a fun photo of the kids, or “We Love Pappou” frame with a photo of all the grandkids? Bet they’d love to see their name in Greek or a custom note engraved on a frame. How about apron with his favorite saying? You dream it, we’ll create it. The possibilities are endless!
Shop now or contact us today for a personalized or customized Greek gift. Order by June 5 for Father’s Day delivery.
Whatever you call him—Dad, Baba, Patera, Pappou, Grandpa, Nono… let’s celebrate them!