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Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it. – Proverbs 22:6

Daddy was at the heart of everything. He was a great provider. He drove the station wagon on long Sunday drives after church. He set up the travel trailer in state parks on our vacations. He grilled for all the outdoor barbecues we had. He fixed things. He could do anything . . . anything at all, except cook!! That’s when mother came in and saved the day with her one pot meals, creoles, fried seafood to perfection and the best stews ever! Daddy called mother “His Bride.” They are both gone now, but the loving, funny, nostalgic memories linger on and lift me up and I imagine they always will.

Daddy encouraged me. He taught me how to drive and did it without causing me to lose my confidence. I went to work with him on Saturdays and I would play secretary in the office next to his. He was always there for me. Growing up and leaving home made us both sad. But it was time. He loved my husband and my children unconditionally and couldn’t get enough of their company. When miles separated us, we talked often by phone. He listened and he gave good advice. I know I was blessed to have a good Christian father who took us to church in my youth and always instructed me to do the right thing. Some of my greatest memories of just the two of us were when he was sick, I would pray for him and read scripture. Years ago, he taught me memory verses and there, roles reversed, I was reading them back to him. Daddy had prepared me well.

Now, with the absence of my earthly father, I rely on my Heavenly Father more than ever. I miss my calls with my dad. I talk to God like I used to talk to my father. My Provider, my Father, My Friend, My Comforter and Guide. Having a relationship with God, the Father, is something I am grateful for. His words and teachings keep me on the straight and narrow.

Whatever your Father’s Day experience is, whether you can call your dad or not, whether there is joy or brokenness, just remember that love conquers all. Forgiveness is a great gift. Whatever your circumstances are on this Father’s Day, stand tall if you are a father, reach out to your dad if you can or be a blessing to someone that could use one. And like my own father said to me, “Do the right thing.” Thank you, Daddy.

Betsy Ore Glass has long-standing ties to the Outer Banks. From Virginia Beach, her family bought a vacation cottage in the 60s and her love of the area began. Later in the 90s, Betsy and her husband bought a weekend cottage and introduced the area to their children. Then Betsy’s parents retired to KDH where the family gathered often. Reach her at betsyglass1@gmail.com or read additional Reflections at www.betsyoreglass.com.

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