Shelly-Ann Thompson, Freelance Writer
Robert Walker's three children. - CONTRIBUTED
BASED ON a letter submitted to The Gleaner's Dad of Distinction competition, Robert Walker was chosen as the extraordinary father.
"I never thought I was doing something extraordinary, so to be acknowledged makes me feel good," said Walker.
His daughter, Charmalyn Walker, had her letter selected from among several as the winning piece out of those submitted for the Father's Day Competition.
Walker, the only male in the house, has been married to Charmaine Walker for 14 years and has three daughters, ages five, 13 and 19. About five years ago Charmaine was diagnosed with Lupus, and Walker was there to assist his wife.
"I have educated myself about the disease, maybe not as much as I should, but I know the dos and donts about it. So I am there to assist whenever necessary," he said.
Mr. Walker emphasised that men should understand their roles in life and in their family and act accordingly.
"Being a man comes with responsibilities. When I tell some people that I cook they don't believe or they may frown. However, cooking is a part of being a man, as not only women should cook."
He added, "For me this is my family. These are whom I am working for. They are the ones who actually push me to go forward so I do what's best for them to go forward."
Mr. Walker won a prize valuing $20,000. He and his family decided to install awnings at the front of their house.
"I am glad within myself that she is glad for what I am doing," beamed Walker.
WINNING LETTER
Here is Charmalyn Walker's entry in The Gleaner's Dad of Distinction Competition.
I KNOW my father is not perfect. He is miserable and at times annoying. However, he never shirks from his responsibilities and never fails to put his best foot forward.
Robert Walker lives and nurtures in a home where he is the only male. He has his wife and three daughters, two of whom are teenagers, to contend with. I love the fact that he is a good listener and is supportive. For my mother he is aware that she has the disease, Lupus and tries to ensure she is well.
He supported her when she decided to attain her degree knowing that I would be attending university that same year. He plays an active role in our lives being present at every concert, graduation and awards. He is adamant that all his girls are aware of the realities of life. Whether we listen or not, he imparts knowledge from his experiences and tries to give positive advice even where the situation eludes him.
He emphasises healthy productive lifestyle and habit to everyone he comes in contact with. He taught us how to ride our bicycle and jump rope. He especially taught me how to cook as food is one of his many passions. Before he sleeps, he checks in each bedroom and ensures all is accounted for. Yes he is not perfect, but his care and how he provides for us cannot be shortened into two hundred words.
