"Ask Dad, he knows."

I’ve seen it dozens of times, maybe more. It’s my favorite movie. Ever since I was a little girl watching It’s a Wonderful Life for the first time, I knew I could relate to George Bailey. When faced with a dilemma, young George knew instantly that he could follow the wise words of the Sweet Caporal advertisement hanging in the drugstore where he worked. 

“Ask Dad, he knows.”

That sign hung in the window of my heart. I knew I could ask my dad anything. I could go to him with any problem or situation, big or small, and get sound advice. Godly biblical wisdom. Help and encouragement that have sustained me through intense trials. 

And at 40 years old, I can still “ask Dad.”

Growing up I always knew my dad was an honest, hard-working, intelligent, God-honoring man. He led his family by following Christ. But the moment I truly realized the depth of his character was during the years we worked at the same paper mill after I graduated college. I witnessed first-hand the deep respect others had for him. A mutual co-worker told me something I already knew, that my dad was a “man of integrity.” I was both incredibly proud and humbled at the same time. What big footsteps I followed. 

And I do mean big footsteps. My dad is a tall man with long inflexible legs. And I am built just like him. Along with tight tendons, I also get my love of reading, the outdoors, and almond M&Ms from him. I always wished his math and science expertise had been passed along, but that’s okay. I’ve been able to drive manual transmission vehicles since I learned to drive. And that’s thanks to him and the old Ford Ranger pickup truck he lent me when I turned sixteen. 

When an occasion calls for homemade ice cream, he’s the man for the job. When a good corny joke is needed, he’s got one ready. When the mood strikes for a Johnny Cash impersonation, his “Ring of Fire” will cause second glances. When I became a single mom, he made sure that I continued camping by replacing the gear I had lost. When I needed help beyond anything I ever could have imagined, he and my mom were there by my side. When my kids needed a father figure, my dad gladly stepped into that role. The three of them doing their “weekend dance” in my parents’ kitchen every Friday night will be a movie that replays in my heart for the rest of my days.

The man has been a steadfast rock in a sea of females. Growing up with a sister, raising three daughters, and even owning all female dogs, he never caught a break. But we would all be lost without him. For me, my dad has been a compass, a flashlight, a shelter.

Dad, Mr. Bailey has nothing on you. You sacrificed much so I could have a “Wonderful Life” here on earth while always pointing me to the One who provides eternal life in Heaven. Thank you for being the strong and loving father God knew I needed.

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