"My Father's Eyes"

The thought that keeps playing in my head is "my father's eyes." It is a phrase commonly used to refer to the connection to their parent. The reason I want to cover this topic today is the use of the father figure in helping a hero understand their place in the scheme of things. For example, as Lion King has been my main focus, Mufasa:


The father of Simba, who later becomes the protagonist of the movie poses the wisdom and teacher of Simba. Through his actions the audience can see the love and care he has for his son. The desire for the youth to grow up to be a wise and good being. Mufasa takes the time necessary to raise, and love his son the way kids are suppose to learn. By play and by experience. Even when it feels difficult the king helps and does what is, perhaps, inconvenient for him.

Next, I would like to focus on Fa Zhou:


The father of Mulan. At times he may seem tough and unloving, but when the time is right he sits down and talks with his daughter about the process of learning in life. His most famous quote is that of "this one's late, I bet that when it blooms, it will be the most beautiful of all." Helping her to understand that she may just be a late bloomer and that she is precious in his sight. Even towards the end as he is missing and worrying for her she arrives and tries to mend whatever breach there may be. He ignores the things of worldly import and hugs her close and tells her of his care. Fathers really make a difference in our lives.

Finally, I would like to focus on Marlin:


Over-protective and very skeptical covers much of the personality of this father. He, through previous experience, lost many loved ones in a single moment. But by chance Nemo survived the attack. Nemo, doesn't really come to understand how much his father loves him until he is kidnapped and taken away. Marlin risks everything, his own life included to try and rescue his son. Along the way he meets Dory and comes to learn to rely on others and not just his own strength. As they are reunited he again has to learn to trust that his own son can and is capable of many things. But he shows his trust and love by letting Nemo do his part. Nemo comes to know that Marlin truly loves him and is willing to do anything necessary to keep him safe.

Now, all of these characteristics are present in my own father. Because he is there for me I have been able to accomplish so much more. He has pushed when I was unwilling to do so, and by creating goals for me that make me work I have become stronger, and I hope, wiser. I am grateful for him and all that he has done for me. Even so I am grateful to my Grandfathers and my ancestors that have made many sacrifices for their families and done so much to make it possible for us to be here today. Fathers are necessary to change the world. They desire for their children to have better than they and try to help lead them on the path.

All the same applies to our Heavenly Father, He gave us all the chance to come to the earth and to learn and to grow. He gave us the chance to come into Celestial glory and to know of Him better. He provided a Savior by sacrificing His own Son to pay the price for us. How great is the love of our God, our Father, and our Support! May we all reflect our Father's eyes.