The Tribune

By ALLISON MILLER

WHEN I was a little girl, I was often told that the man who would be in my life would have big shoes to fill. That is because of how my father raised and treated my sisters and I. The only father in my life who I know is actually my biological uncle.

The way we were raised was solid. We understand that especially now that we are adults. We were raised to have respect for ourselves and others; regard for other's property, meaning you don't touch it without their permission.

What has always stood out for uncle is the way he cared and still cares for us. He had no part in the biological process, however, from the outside looking in you could never tell. Many people unless corrected thinks that he is our dad and that is fine with my sisters and I.

We didn't go to private schools but we had everything that we needed for school, which was more than others had. I can't recall a time when the electricity or water cut off due the bill not being paid. The landlord never came over demanding his money because the rent wasn't paid. All bills were paid and paid on time.

If there was a problem as children it never came before us. That is the wealth we knew as children. Having our needs met which is imperative for any child growing up.

Uncle was the best pilot of our plane called childhood. Don't get me wrong, we had our challenges, situations that seemed impossible at the time and whippings as well. However, I believe that the best was done for us that he knew how to do.

Not only were our needs met but we were granted some of our requests as well. As a little girl I remember that we got McDonalds every Saturday for lunch that was accompanied by allowance. Trust me when I tell you that was a very big deal then.

We went everywhere with uncle. He took us to Potter's Cay for conch salad, mangoes, sugar cane, fish and crabs, which was my grandmother's favorite.

Orange Hill Beach saw us many Sundays and sometimes on holidays. Even if uncle just went to the store, we would pile up the car just to go for the ride. We were all each other knew and it showed.

I don't know if men realize that they don't ever stop being providers and protectors. They don't ever stop being fathers.

I can't say for certain that if I was on a different plane with a different pilot that my life would have been better or worse, but I thank God for what was and it has contributed tremendously to the person I am today.

Thank you uncle for being such a wonderful pilot in doing what you did even though you didn't have to do it. Happy belated Father's Day to you and fathers everywhere.