Echoes of Love: Words from a Daddy’s Girl

Dec 29, 2011 is the last time I heard my father’s voice. He was contemplating visiting my sister and I in Tennessee. It was very cold that winter and he was so upset at the low temperature. I recall he spoke of my oldest son having pizza with him. We promised to speak again soon about his visit. On the 31st, I called my daddy to wish him a happy new year. He never answered.

I was a daddy’s girl. Victor Charles Banks could do no wrong in my eyes. Even when we disagreed, he was a god to me. I have three sisters who also feel our daddy was The dad for all other dads to learn from.

When I was around four, every other weekend I got to hang out with my hero. He had a yellow corvette without a back seat. I had to scoot up and lay down on the luggage rack behind the front seat. I am sure this wasn’t long term but I remember it vividly. The house on Evergreen parkway was built for my mom because in the 1970’s racist Flint Mi would not allow my dad to buy a house in a decent neighborhood. It used to be my dream to own this house. It’s funny how things change.

In the downstairs bathroom, there was a darkroom where my dad developed film. The poster of Rufus featuring Chaka Kahn was a reminder of how beautiful black women are. I roller skated in the basement and rode my bike around the neighborhood. All under the watch of my dad.

Life progresses and people age. My dad never stopped being the ruler that I measure men by. He is my guide to right and wrong. Once, I lied about something, I don’t even remember what. My daddy told me that if there is ever anything that I am afraid to tell him, it’s wrong. That simple rule taught me that I should never be afraid of what is right.

I followed my dad to work and learned to work smarter not harder. I witnessed him maintain his composure in the face of stupidity. He excelled and survived while staying true to his beliefs and values. If my dad were alive today, he would see his four beautiful daughters have become strong,loving,intelligent and independent women. He would witness his grandchildren as parents being great. Most importantly my dad would see the Detroit Lions have a 13/2 record in a single season.

I miss my dad so much every day. I remember the things he taught me directly and indirectly. I think of our experiences and can say, my daddy loved me too.