Why do you think Ashers father always tends to discourage him and tell him that it is a waste of his time? Is it normal for parents to discourage their kids in the society they live in?

Asher's father simply wants to lead him in another direction. It is common for parents to discourage children from one task and encourage things they themselves enjoy or are interested in. Different cultures emphasize different things.... something that might be important in one culture is considered worthless in another.