Dad's special secret was a giving spirit

"But my God shall supply all your need."

- Philippians 4:19 (KJV)

Each year as Father's Day rolls around it brings back memories of special qualities our fathers possessed.

Sure, my dad had his temper issues, like many of yours. But there were tender, loving sides he possessed that I like to recall.

My parents had a vacation place in Wisconsin. It was about one hour past the Dells. Each year, our whole family enjoyed using the place. We would take our kids fishing, swimming and simply camp out there.

One year, my husband and I were going through a time where we were living on a tight budget. But we decided not to do away with the family vacation; after all, the only expense we had to incur was gas and food.

Well wouldn't you know it, in the middle of our vacation we got a flat tire and it was beyond fixing. We needed to buy a new one.

What were we going to do? Fortunately, my parents were vacationing at the time, too. Seeing our dilemma, my dad pulled me aside and mentioned he would like to help.

As he pulled out his wallet and reached in a secret compartment, he grasped a crisp, green $50 bill from the slot. He mentioned it was his secret money he kept hidden, but I wasn't to tell anyone about it. He was giving it to me to buy a new tire.

I kept that secret between my dad and I for years. His generosity touched my heart.

In a recent conversation, reminiscing over old times with my sister, I happened to mention the experience. She was elated to share that she thought she was the only one whom dad gave his secret money to. We laughed, but saw the special insight and caring of a loving father to provide for his children.

My father is no longer with me to meet my needs, but I have since learned when I have a need I turn to my heavenly Father to meet them. He promises to supply all our needs.

• Annettee Budzban is a Christian author, speaker, life coach and nurse. She can be contacted at annetteebudzban@aol.com or (847) 543-8413.