Be a Mia Moo today!

A nervous smile yet a reassuring voice is what you see and hear as a child is wheeled into the operating room. I know. I've been on the receiving end of those nervous smiles and reassuring voices several times and my sisters have too. Since today is thankful Thursday, I want to take a moment and say how thankful I am to have people who care about my health and well-being in life both physically and emotionally. Always, these caring people have been my family. Yet sometimes, a few strangers were in the mix too. There's nothing quite like a sweet scrub nurse or a funny hospital volunteer that helps brighten what can be a very scary moment.These kind of people make surgeries a lot less scary for children. Tonight, as I watched the season finale of my favorite television program, Duck Dynasty, I was reminded of my family and the strangers who were there to help me get through my medical hurdles in life. Further than that though, I discovered a new way to give back to those who are facing scary medical hurdles themselves. One of Duck Dynasty's characters Jase Robertson's daughter, Mia Robertson was born with a cleft lip and palate. Since I was born with a cleft palate myself, I can relate to Mia and the struggles she faces. Yet she is a fighter and I like to believe that I am too. However, sometimes even fighters need encouragement and help. So, the Robertson's have graciously decided to launch the Mia Moo Fund. The Mia Moo Fund is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to raising awareness and funds toward the management, treatments and surgical procedures of cleft lip and cleft palate. I am very happy to see such a fund which not only helps through monetary donations but also through support and advice.

So, today, I am very thankful for organizations like the Mia Moo Fund that can and do provide so much help and encouragement to children facing medical hurdles. When people look at a child, they often see innocence, playfulness, and joy. Sometimes though, people miss seeing the strength that children have to overcome their trials in life. Still yet, sometimes people miss seeing the struggles that parents go through with their children. However, with organizations like the Mia Moo Fund, awareness is being raised. I am thankful for that. On a personal note, I am forever and always thankful for those who have helped me and my family through the medical hurdles we've faced. Whether it was a visit, a phone call, a gift, a card, or just a smile you'll never know what a difference it can make, especially in the life of a child. Let's all go out and be a "Mia Moo" to kids in need!

Tonight, I have found that the measure of a man can be found in his ability to raise awareness of and find solutions for helping children in their time of medical need.

That, my friends, is just a few thoughts from a small town southern man!

By the way, here's the link to the Mia Moo Fund:
http://www.miamoo.org/about/mission-statement.html

They don't make 'em like that any more or do they?

"They don't make 'em like that anymore!" Have you ever said that? Today, I was extremely privileged to have the opportunity to gain some wisdom from the older generation. I try to do that as often as possible. I absolutely dearly love older people and consider it an honor to be able to spend time with them. Today was no exception. As I spoke with this lady, she shared stories and advice that, in my opinion are priceless. As I left, and even now at this very minute, I am trying to pin down exactly why the older generation holds such a special place in my heart. I think I have finally at least figured out at least part of the reason behind my fondness for the older generation and I believe it really boils down to these words: "They don't make 'em like that anymore." As a matter of fact, there's a song by that title. Here's the lyrics to Jason Blaine's "They Don't Make 'Em Like that Anymore":

He still combs his hair like Elvis
Pays cash for everything 
and he'll only drive a chevy and thinks Alan Jackson's king
He knows everyone by name at the local hardware store
They dont make 'em like that anymore
Up with the sun each mornin'
Hardly missed a day of work
Summer 1957 he helped build that Lutheran church
Believes a man should work all week but save Sunday for the Lord
They dont make 'em like that anymore
Standin' shoulder to shoulder with him now, 
I still feel small
And I'm still lookin' up to him like he's ten feet tall
There's somethin about that generation
These days I think we need 'em
More than we ever did before
But they dont make 'em like that anymore
He married his sweet Mary 
June 1955
He goes on and on about her
Her casseroles, her clear blue eyes
He still helps her with her coat, 
Still opens her car door
They dont make 'em like that anymore
Standin' shoulder to shoulder with him now, 
I still feel small
And I'm still lookin up to him like he's ten feet tall
Theres somethin' about that generation
These days I think we need 'em
More than we ever did before
But they dont make 'em like that anymore
Theres somethin about that generation
These days I think we need 'em
More than we ever did before
Yeah thats for sure
But they dont make 'em like that anymore
He still combs his hair like Elvis
Pays cash for everything...

When I hear this song, the first two people that come to mind are my grandfathers. But today, not only did my grandfathers come to mind when I thought about this song, but the older lady I visited. Before, I thought this song only applied to older men, but it rings true for many of the older generation-men and women. I feel that the older generation holds a special place in my heart for several reasons

First, they stick to quality-even if it isn't always the best looking. If it worked 40 years ago, then why can't it work now. Sometimes people don't like to think this way, but let's face it-some things work better the old fashioned way. For example, give me grandaddy's old Zebco 33 fishing reel over a new one any day. Sure, it may not be the prettiest piece of craftsmanship but it beats modern day junk any day. The same goes for their way of doing things. They don't need Google because they've got experience. They tried things. They practiced. They got better at things. 

Second, the older generation still values money the way it should be valued. They rarely buy things they don't need. If they buy things, they pay cash and don't run up a huge credit card debt. Why do they do this? Well it's simple and easy to see and it's my third reason why I have a fondness for the older generation.

Third, the older generation values work. They're "up with the sun each morning" and "hardly miss a day of work." They realize that it takes work to raise a family and be able to save and prepare for hard times. They also realize that all work doesn't have to be boring. They take pride in what they do. They see work as something that's rewarding-an accomplishment that allows them to enjoy life in more ways than one.

Fourth, the older generation values other people. When I spoke with this older lady today, she told me about many people in the community. She told me about how they were doing. She spoke of things they did together in the past. Personally I see this in my grandfathers too. I've literally been to hardware stores with both of them and they, almost always, "knew everyone by name at the local hardware store." I know they generally had an interest in them too.

Finally, I love the older generation because they know how to love. As I spoke with the older lady today, I asked her about a picture on the wall. The picture was of her and her late husband. She "went on and on" about him. She bragged about his work ethic, his physical strength, and most importantly, how he provided for her and her kids until he was killed in a tragic accident at a local mill. That was a very long time ago. Yet, she worked hard and raised three kids on her own and still loved the same man even when she didn't wake up next to him every morning. That is true love if you ask me- a love that has stood the test of time. Do they really "make 'em like that anymore?"

Before today, my answer may have been "no." However as I watched the video that goes with the song, at the end I noticed something. The old man in the video forgets his wallet on a diner table. A young man sees it and rushes out to the parking lot to return the wallet. Perhaps they do still "make 'em like that." In fact I believe they do, but the secret to that is the younger generation taking notes from the older generation.

As I look around at young people today, I'm sometimes disappointed. They seem to lack respect for their elders and even more they lack a desire to work and accomplish things. However, now instead of focusing on the bad. I'm going to focus on the good because there are still young people out there who are upstanding individuals.I know that for a fact. I'm going to try my best to be one of them.

So today, the measure of a man can be found in his ability to defy the phrase "They don't make 'em like that anymore." I urge everyone to learn from the older generation because "these days I think we need 'em more than we ever did before."

That, my friends, is just a few thoughts from a small town southern man!

I prefer red marbles

"Peas & Marbles"


Mrs Miller was bagging some early potatoes for me. I noticed a small boy, delicate of bone and feature, ragged but clean, hungrily apprising a basket of freshly picked green peas.

I Paid for my potatoes but was also drawn to the display of fresh green peas. I am a pushover for creamed peas and new potatoes. Pondering the peas, I couldn't help overhearing the conversation between Mr. Miller and the ragged boy next to me.

"Hello Barry, how are you today?"

"H'lo, Mr. Miller. Fine, thank ya. Jus' admirin' them peas. Sure look good."

"They are good, Barry. How's your Ma?"

"Fine. Gittin' stronger alla' time."

"Good. Anything I can help you with?"

"No, Sir. Jus' admirin' them peas."

"Would you like to take some home?"

"No, Sir. Got nuthin' to pay for 'em with."

"Well, what have you to trade me for some of those peas?"

"All I got's my prize marble here."

"Is that right? Let me see it."

"Here 'tis. She's a dandy."

"I can see that. Hmmmmm, only thing is this one is blue and I sort of go for red. Do you have a red one like this at home?"

"Not zackley. but almost."

"Tell you what. Take this sack of peas home with you and next trip this way let me look at that red marble."

"Sure will. Thanks Mr. Miller."

Mrs. Miller, who had been standing nearby, came over to help me. With a smile she said, "There are two other boys like him in our community, all three are in very poor circumstances. Jim just loves to bargain with them for peas, apples, tomatoes, or whatever. When they come back with their red marbles, and they always do, he decides he doesn't like red after all and he sends them home with a bag of produce for a green marble or an orange one, perhaps."

I left the stand smiling to myself, impressed with this man. A short time later I moved to Colorado but I never forgot the story of this man, the boys, and their bartering.

Several years went by, each more rapid than the previous one. Just recently I had occasion to visit some old friends in that Idaho community and while I was there learned that Mr. Miller had died. They were having his viewing that evening and knowing my friends wanted to go, I agreed to accompany them. Upon arrival at the mortuary we fell into line to meet the relatives of the deceased and to offer whatever words of comfort we could.

Ahead of us in line were three young men. One was in an army uniform and the other two wore nice haircuts, dark suits and white shirts, all very professional looking.

They approached Mrs. Miller, standing composed and smiling by her husband's casket. Each of the young men hugged her, kissed her on the cheek, spoke briefly with her and moved on to the casket.

Her misty light blue eyes followed them as, one by one, each young man stopped briefly and placed his own warm hand over the cold pale hand in the casket. Each left the mortuary awkwardly, wiping his eyes.

Our turn came to meet Mrs. Miller. I told her who I was and mentioned the story she had told me about the marbles. With her eyes glistening, she took my hand and led me to the casket.

"Those three young men who just left were the boys I told you about. They just told me how they appreciated the things Jim "traded" them. Now, at last, when Jim could not change his mind about color or size....they came to pay their debt."

"We've never had a great deal of the wealth of this world," she confided, "but right now, Jim would consider himself the richest man in Idaho "

With loving gentleness she lifted the lifeless fingers of her deceased husband. Resting underneath were three exquisitely shined red marbles.






~~Author Unknown~~

Moral of the story: We will not be remembered by our words, but by our kind deeds.
Life is not measured by the breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath.

Recently, I've been considering what it truly means to be a good steward of what we have and have considered this story and the stories of others I've known personally in my own life. I have concluded that being a good steward of what you have requires having a heart to serve. Anyone who knows me knows that my faith is important to me. In times past, however, my faith didn't play as big of a role in the stewardship of the resources I had. However, I'm constantly trying to do better. When I look at the "Peas and Marbles" story I see these things: 

1.) A man who knew how to be a good steward of his resources-You see, Mr. Miller realized that it was more important to feed a hungry family than to worry about making another dollar. He also realized that he didn't need another dollar to expand his store or buy greater, fancier things. No, he realized that all the wealth he needed came from doing what was right.

2.) An impact that lasted longer than words alone ever could.- What would have happened if Mr. Miller had chosen to be greedy and serve his own interests before others? What would have happened if Mr. Miller had chosen to expand his store in hopes of expanding his pocket book? What would have happened if Mr. Miller had considered the little boys second class citizens and not worthy of his time? I know what would have happened. Three hearts would have never been impacted. Three men may have possibly never knew the value of being a good steward, the value of being a servant at heart. 

You see, being a good steward of the things you have requires you to  consider the needs of others. It requires you to be a "Mr.Miller"-someone who willingly and happily gives of what he has without expecting anything in return. 

I'm honored to say that I know and have known a few "Mr. Miller's" in my short 23 years on this earth. I can promise you this about them too: No one will ever forget them!

So today, make up your mind to be a "Mr.Miller" Red marbles are better anyway!

I realize today that sometimes the measure of a man can be found in his willingness to be a "Mr. Miller" with the resources he possesses. That, my friends, is just a few thoughts from a small town southern man!

Are you a point of light?

Ever since my early childhood, I have been interested in politics. Of course, I know that this subject is not of interest to many, but I feel my interest can help others become interested. You see, I see politics as a way in which to get involved and serve others.  For two months, I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to be an intern in Alabama's legislative body. During that time I learned that politics isn't always what people make it out to be. Don't get me wrong, there are cronies out there, but there are also well-minded, tireless fighters in politics too that are exercising their right to be involved in making a difference.

Today is Thankful Thursday and I am thankful that I live in a country where I can become involved in the  political activities of this country. After all, many men and women have fought and died for my right.Therefore, why shouldn't I be thankful and use that right? Too many times, people feel that they can't make a difference in their country. My response to that belief is, "All it takes is a point of light!" Well, you ask, what's a "point of light"? Perhaps I can answer that question with these song lyrics:

Point of Light- by Randy Travis

There's a point when you cannot walk away 
When you have to stand up straight and tall and mean the words you say
There's a point you must decide just to do it 'cause it's right
That's when you become a point of light

There's a darkness that everyone must face
It wants to take what's good and fair and lay it all to waste
And that darkness covers everything in sight
Until it meets a single point of light

All it takes is a point of light,
A ray of hope in the darkest night.
If you see what's wrong,
And you try to make it right,
You will be a point of light.

There are heroes whose names we never hear
A dedicated army of quiet volunteers
Reaching out to feed the hungry,
Reaching out to save the land
Reaching out to help their fellow men.

There are dreamers who are making dreams come true
Taking time to teach the children there's nothing they can't do.
Giving shelter to the homeless giving hope to those without.
Isn't that what this land's all about.

One by one from the mountains to the sea,
Points of light are calling out to you and me

All it takes is a point of light a ray of hope in the darkest night.

If you see what's wrong and you try to make it right
You will be a point of light.

You see, getting involved is the answer. Think about it this way. What if George Washington did not decide to cross the Delaware? What if Abraham Lincoln decided never to branch out from his log cabin? What if Paul Revere hadn't taken that ride? What if Patrick Henry had never spoke the words, "Give me liberty or give me death!"? Of course, we understand what would have happened if these things didn't take place, but let's dig a little deeper. We know all of these people from history. Yet there are some people that we don't know who have been points of light for you and for me. Consider this:

Alice Catherine Evans was a microbiologist who discovered how to pasteurize milk, thus saving countless lives from sickness cause from un-pasteurized  milk. Point of light?

An American solider in World War II, John R. Fox died when he deliberately called an artillery strike on his own position. Fox realised that the German troops were overrunning his party’s position. The strike delayed the enemy long enough for other American units to organize a counter attack. Point of light?

Jong-rak is a pastor in South Korea, who created a “baby box”. He attached the box to the side of his house, to allow parents to deposit their mentally handicapped or unwanted babies, to stop them being abandoned on the side of the road. Point of light?

What if people in my small town of Range, Alabama didn't decide to fight a corrupt landfill developer from destroying the environment and the quality of life of individuals throughout south Alabama? Point of light?

I think you understand what I mean. Sometimes, all it really takes is a "point of light." All it takes is someone who is willing and ready to step up to the plate in order to make a difference. We have the opportunity be a point of light in America and I am very thankful for that opportunity. Too often, we complain that we don't matter. Too often we say, "Someone else will do it." Too often we miss out on being that "point of light." Too often we get disgusted because things are done that aren't right. However, we don't take the time to "stand up straight and tall and mean the words we say." We don't "reach out to feed the hungry." We don't "reach out to save the land." We don't "reach out to help our fellow man." We don't "make dreams come true." We don't give hope to those without." BUT Isn't that what America's all about? 

So today, decide that you can be a point of light where you are. Participate. Get involved. Listen. Work. Volunteer. Be a point of light! Tonight, perhaps the measure of a man can be found in his ability to be a point of light. For in doing so, he will only improve this land for himself and those around him. That, my friends, is just a few thoughts from a small town southern man! 

Fix it! Don't throw it away!

Anyone that knows me knows that I can get along with elderly people better than those my own age most of the time. I can't explain why that is the case, but I do know that there's a lot to learn from the older generation, especially when it comes to love. You know, I find great joy in observing elderly couples together. Whether it's the elderly couple that I sat on the front porch with in Kittanning, Pennsylvania on a mission trip talking about how their town had changed or the elderly couple I attend church with who never seem to be seen separately (even during a 2 month stay in the hospital.) These couples just seem to be so in love. I guess love only grows with age. I'd really like to know their answer to the secret of long-lasting love. Well, I think I might have found it today in just a short piece that I found on the internet. It read:

A reporter asked an old couple, "How did you manage to stay together for 65 years?" The woman replied, "We were born in a time when, if something was broken, we would fix it, not throw it away..."

It sounds quite simple to me, but why do so many relationships in today's society end in shambles. Well, just like the elderly lady said, people just "throw it away." They throw away years of memories and happiness. They throw away years of connections. They throw away years of feelings. Yet, the question still remains why do they "throw it away?"

 I think the number one reason people throw relationships away is lack of effort. They don't do the small things that make relationships work- doing chores, writing notes,or saying "I love you." It's not hard! Do things that make the other person feel appreciated and let them know you care.

Another reason I believe couples throw relationships away is because they married for appearance of the outside rather than appearance of the inside. Physical beauty fades with time, but inward beauty never changes. There's a Randy Travis song called "Forever and Ever, Amen" and a verse in the song says:

"They say that time takes it's toll on a body
Makes the young girl's brown hair turn greyBut honey, I don't care, I ain't in love with your hairAnd if it all fell out, well, I'd love you anyway"

The man described in the song didn't marry for outward beauty, although he probably still finds his wife attractive even in old age. Yet, the most attractive quality to him is most  likely her heart.


Yet another reason for broken relationships, and one I've seen very recently in some folks that I know, is a constant race to have the best of all material things. There's a song that I love a lot. It's an Alan Jackson song called "Livin' on Love." One of the main premises of the song, in my opinion, is to demonstrate that things don't make a relationship. Take a look at the lyrics:

"Livin On Love"

Two young people without a thing
Say some vows and spread their wings
Settle down with just what they need
Livin' on love

She don't care 'bout what's in style
She just likes the way he smiles
It takes more than marble and tile
Livin' on love

Livin' on love, buyin' on time
Without somebody nothing ain't worth a dime
Just like an old fashion story book rhyme
Livin' on love
It sounds simple, that's what you're thinkin'
But love can walk through fire without blinkin'
It doesn't take much when you get enough
Livin' on love

Two old people without a thing
Children gone but still they sing
Side by side in that front porch swing
Livin' on love

He can't see anymore
She can barely sweep the floor
Hand in hand they'll walk through that door
Just livin' on love

Livin' on love, buyin' on time
Without somebody nothing ain't worth a dime
Just like an old fashion story book rhyme
Livin' on love
It sounds simple that's what you're thinkin'
But love can walk through fire without blinkin'
It doesn't take much when you get enough
Livin' on love

No it doesn't take much when you get enough
Livin' on love

Without a thing-look closely at those words. Things don't make a relationship. It's that love that can "walk through fire without blinkin'!" Some of the most successful relationships I have seen, have not come from the rich and famous, but the poor and not so famous. They've had to work through struggles-struggles just like the lady in the story is talking about. People who have worked through struggles and fixed their relationships instead of throwing them away are the ones who realize the meaning behind the words "Love can walk through fire without blinkin'!" It really can! A love that is strong is one that has worked hardest in the hard times and cherished the good times. It's a love that lasted through better or worse and in sickness and health. I'm so thankful to know people who fit this description, especially those who have held on to love for so many years. So, tonight, I say that sometimes the true measure of a man is found in his ability to fix a relationship instead of throwing it away. That, my friends, is just a few thoughts from a small town southern man.!

It's knocking! Answer the door!

Since today is once gain Thankful Thursday, I am going to post about some other people and things I'm thankful for, and tonight it's simple. I am thankful for opportunities and those who have allowed me to have them. I have been extremely blessed with so many opportunities in my life, but sometimes I take them for granted. However, I shouldn't because a lot of people have sacrificed time, sweat, and even blood for MY opportunities. Look around you and examine all of the opportunities you have had in your life. Opportunities for travel, opportunities for making friends, opportunities for success in school or on the job, opportunities for advancement in many areas, opportunities to live in a country like America, and opportunities to build love. I would list the opportunities that have been given me, but I'd be here all night if I did that. However, I would like to take a brief moment to give credit where credit is due. As a young person, I have already had so many opportunities. Ronald Reagan said it best when he said:


"Each generation goes further than the generation preceding it because it stands on the shoulders of that generation. You will have opportunities beyond anything we've ever known."

I owe a lot of my opportunities to the generations preceding mine- my parents, grandparents, great-grandparents and so on. They sacrificed so much to make my life better and for that I am eternally grateful. Hence, I have chosen to do the same for the generations that follow me. Won't you join me in that pursuit? After all, sometimes the measure of a man can be found in what he does to increase the opportunities of those who come after him. That, my friends, is just a few thoughts from a small town southern man!

Hard Hats and Hammers

Anyone who has ever laid eyes on this blog knows that I am a fan of Alan Jackson's music. Recently, as a perused YouTube for some A.J. songs, I came across an old favorite. It's called "Hard Hat and a Hammer" The song is so characteristic of many workers in America, especially those who work in the factories and the mills. I've been the son of a mill worker for 23 years and I get to hear all about that kind of work. From the long graveyard shifts, to the nicknames everyone were given, to the pranks that were played, to the sweat in summer months and the cold toes in winter, to the days when everything breaks down,  to the times when accidents occurred, and to the times when companies just lost respect for those who wear the "hard hat" and hold "the hammer."

You see, I'm as conservative and pro-business as they come, but it seems giant corporation have lost respect for the backbone of their companies-the guys sweating in summer and freezing in winter, the guys fixing broken equipment, and the guys struggling to spend time with their families because of working overtime to pay outrageous insurance premiums. Why can't the giant corporations just see the guys with the "hard hats" and "hammers" just for who they are-people. Take a look at the song:

"Hard Hat And A Hammer"

Lace-up boots and faded jeans
A homemade sandwich, a half jug of tea
Average Joe, average pay
Same ol' end and same ol' day

But there's nothing wrong with a hard hat and a hammer
Kind of glue that sticks this world together
Hands of steel and cradle of the Promised Land
God bless the working man

All week long making a living
Life keeps takin', he keeps giving
Behind the scene, below the grade
Hardly noticed but part of everything

But there's nothing wrong with a hard hat and a hammer
Kind of glue that sticks this world together
Hands of steel and cradle of the Promised Land
God bless the working man

He gives his life then fades away
Another young man takes his place
Average Joe, average pay
Same ol end, same old' day

But there's nothing wrong with a hard hat and a hammer
Kind of glue that sticks this world together
Hands of steel and cradle of the Promised Land

No, there's nothing wrong with a hard hat and a hammer
Kind of glue that sticks this world together
Hands of steel and cradle of the Promised Land
God bless the working man

The working man
Oh, the working man and woman

"Hands of steel", "cradle of the Promised Land", "hardly noticed but part of everything"...the working man often is just that-tough and the heart of what makes America great-industrious good-hearted men. Yet, so often "he gives his life" and just "fades away" without being noticed by the big whigs at the top.Well, let me tell you this, I notice the "hard hats" and the "hammers" and I always will. I say this to those who earn their living this way: Hard work doesn't go unnoticed! So recognize the working man today! After all, he's a part of what makes this world tick! Sometimes, the measure of a man can be found just under a "hard hat" and on the grip of a "hammer." That, my friends, is just a few thoughts from a small town southern man!

What's wrong with being ordinary?

I wasn't going to compose a new blog post today, but I feel compelled. Sometimes in life we feel like we can't make the cut. We feel like something isn't going to work. We doubt things. We let other people drag us down and break our potential. We all have the potential to do great things, sometimes we just forget we have it. Craig Morgan has a song called "Ordinary Angels" that really pertains to this subject. Here it is:

"Ordinary Angels"

Seems like almost everyday
Trouble carries us away
And sometimes when we hurt we all need to be saved
Every time I'm in to deep
Someone always rescue me
Its like heavens sending down the help that I need
Life like a chain sometimes it breaks
We all need a hand when we fall from grace

It could be someone walking down the street
A stranger on a bus
A little kid on his way to school or any one of us
We all got a little superman ready to take a fly
And save a life ohh save a life
Take a look around and you'll see ordinary angels

The world can make you feel so small
Steal your dreams and make you crawl
And break you till you got you got nothing at all
When your in that dark place and you need that embrace
You know love is never to far away

It could be a waitress at a coffee shop you never saw before
A soldier thats just coming home from fighting in the war
We all got a little superman ready to take a fly
And save a life ohh save a life
Take a look around and you'll see ordinary angels

It could be someone walking down the street
A stranger on a bus
A little kid on his way to school or any one of us
We all got a little superman ready to take a fly
And save a life ohh save a life
Take a look around and you'll see ordinary angels

We all fall sometimes. We all have our ups and downs in life, yet more times than not, we all have a superman or superwoman that saves us. However, they are not likely not be dressed in a cape and have slicked back hair. No, our supermen and superwomen, ordinary angels, often times are just ordinary people who, by choice or not, have somehow impacted our lives when we needed it most. We all like those kinds of people, the supermen and superwomen of the world. Well, the good news is we can be a superman or superwoman ourselves. We just have to take flight! Have you taken flight today? Today, I have discovered that the measure of a man can sometimes be found in his ability to be an ordinary angel. That, my friends, is just a few thoughts from this small town southern man.

Every Time You Think You Got it Bad...Be Grateful

I saw a post on a Facebook page today that billed Thursday as Thankful Thursday or in the techno world #thankfulthursday So, I have decided to reciprocate that idea here on my blog. Now, each Thursday, will be known as the Southern Man's Thankful Thursday. Also, since I seem to have to pair every post with a song, I've got one for Thankful Thursday too! One could call it the Southern Man's Thankful Thursday Song or you could just call it by it's actual name, "Be Grateful." The song is performed by the group The Farm and the lyrics are as follows:

(Verse)
The other day I called myself complaining
Now my boss has got me working over time
Then the stranger who was sitting there beside me
Said, I spent all day in the unemployment line
Are there open shifts, are they hiring on
I'll work any hours even all night long
If you could put a good word in for me

(Chorus)
Every time you think you got it bad
You can find someone who's got it worse
All the things you take for granted now
They started out as blessings first
If you got someone who loves you
And a steady job that puts food on the table
If you're strong and able
Man , be grateful

(Verse)
We complain about how much it's gonna cost us
To feel our 20 something thousand dollars cars
And living in the land of milk and honey
It's so easy to forget how lucky we are
We can work hard and buy a patch of dirt
And on Sunday morning we can go to church
And pray for those who don't have it as good as you

(Chorus x2)
Everytime you think you got it bad
You can find someone who's got it worse
All the things you take for granted now
They started out as blessings first
If you got someone who loves you
And a steady job that puts food on the table
If you're strong and able
Man , be grateful


This song is very powerful. It forces you to examine yourself, which is often times the reason why we just aren't as grateful as we should be- we are too caught up in ourselves and not caught up in ourselves enough all at the same time. Huh? How's that possible? Allow me to explain.


First in order to be grateful or thankful, we must reflect on what has taken place in ourselves. I guarantee you if you look back on your lives and the good times, you will be reminded of how truly blessed you are. From having a loving family and friends, to academic or athletic accomplishments to being blesses through medical problems to being fortunate enough to live in a country where resources are not only abundant, but better than most of the world.


Secondly, in order to be thankful we must look at the present. Look around you. Do you have a job? A lot of people don't. Do you have good health? A lot of people don't. Do you drive a car that doesn't require work everyday to get it running? Some people don't. Can you buy, not only the things you need but also the things you want? A lot of people can't. Can you put food on your table? Some people can't. Last, but certainly not least, do you have someone who loves you? Some people don't.

Finally, in order to be thankful we must look to the future and continue with the notion that we will continue to be just as blessed as we've always been. Sometimes that is hard to do, but I believe it can be done. After all, we've been blessed so much in the past; why should we expect anything different in the future? The future holds a lot sometimes, often times the best things. I certainly feel that way at the moment. Jobs come and jobs go. You may have a better job in the future. Health comes and health goes. You may have better health in the future. Cars come and cars go. You may have a better car in the future. Things come and things go. You may be able to have better things in the future. Especially with me, food comes and food goes. Haha! you may have more and better food in the future. Most importantly, people come and people go. You may have some very special important people in your future.

You see, being grateful requires work. Work requires effort. Many people don't won't to put for the effort to make things work. Right now, at this moment, I'm doing my best to put forth the effort and make things work because I see great things ahead and I'm grateful for what is behind.

So, from this point forward, Thursdays will be known here as the Southern Man's Thankful Thursdays. After all, one of the true measures of a man is revealed in how grateful he is. What are you grateful for? That, my friends, is just a few thoughts from this small town southern man! 

Here's a link to The Farm's "Be Grateful":

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UoUVODtrVKU

We Need More Flashlight Holding in this World

Yesterday, I watched a video about 8 year old Myles Eckert. To make the story as short as possible, I'll try to tell you about him briefly. You see, Eckert found a 20 dollar bill in a Cracker Barrel parking lot one day. As he pondered on what to do with the money, a thought came to his mind. Rather than buying toys or video games or candy, Eckert decided to do something special with the 20 dollar bill. He saw an Army officer in the Cracker Barrel. Eckert scribbled on a note the following words:

 “Dear Soldier — my dad was a soldier. He’s in heaven now. I found this 20 dollars in the parking lot when we got here. We like to pay it forward in my family. It’s your lucky day! Thank you for your service. Myles Eckert, a gold star kid.” 

Here is a young man who could have easily spent that money on something else, but he decided to do something bigger and better. No doubt, this is a very good kid with a very good heart. He is certainly being raised well in my opinion. Yet, the detail in the story that stood out the most to me is that little Myles Eckert doesn't have his father here on earth. So many children do have their father here on earth, but the father hasn't taken the time to be involved in their lives. This really irritates me. For a little boy, it is so crucial to have a dad who they can throw the football around with, teach them how to ride a bike, take them fishing, tell them stories, teach them to work on things, lovingly correct them and dry their tears when they get those bumps and bruises that every little boy gets. Further, as little boys transform into teenagers, it's so important to have a dad who can help them fix their cars, give them advice and guidance about girls, and attend their games and graduations. Still further, it's important for a grown man to continue to have a dad in his life that can help him with advice on raising his own kids, give him secrets to a successful marriage, and be an outstanding grandfather. Sadly, there are all different kinds of fathers in this world. There's three songs that I'm going to use to illustrate different types of fathers in the world.

First, there's the failing father as illustrated in the following song by Billy Currington:

"Walk A Little Straighter"

I remember looking up 
To look up to him 
And I remember most the time 
He wasn't there 
I'd be waiting at the door 
When he got home at night 
He'd pass me by to go to pass out in his chair 

And I'd say 
Walk a little straighter daddy 
You're swaying side to side 
You're footsteps make me dizzy 
And no matter how I try 
I keep tripping and stumbling 
If you'd look down here you'd see 
Walk a little straighter daddy 
You're leading me 

He stumbled in the gym 
On graduation day 
And I couldn't help but feel 
So ashamed 
And I wasn't surprised a bit 
When he didn't stay 
He stumbled out before they called my name 

And I thought 
Walk a little straighter daddy 
You're swaying side to side 
It's not just me who's watching 
you've caught everybody's eye 
And you're tripping and stumbling 
and even though I've turned 18 
Walk a little straighter daddy 
You're still leading me 

The old mans still like he always was 
But I love him anyway 
If I've learned one thing from him 
Its my kids will never have to say 

Walk a little straighter daddy 
You're swaying side to side 
You're footsteps make me dizzy 
And no matter how I try 
I keep tripping and stumbling 
if you'd look down here you'd see 
Walk a little straighter daddy 
You're leading me 

Yeah walk a little straighter daddy 
You're leading me

In "Walk a Little Straighter" we see a father who has always been a failing father. Unfortunately, there are many men in the world like this. However, there is a significant lesson to learn here. As the song points out, lessons can be learned from the failing father too. Those with failing fathers should learn that just because they had a failing father, doesn't mean they have to be one. Also, it's important to be the bigger man and love your father no matter what kind of man he chooses to be. People can and do change.

Next, we have what I will call the "didn't-have-to-be" fathers. I'll use Brad Paisley's song "He Didn't Have to Be" to illustrate this type father. Here's the song lyrics:

"He Didn't Have To Be"

When a single mom goes out on a date with somebody new
It always winds up feeling more like a job interview
My momma used to wonder if she'd ever meet someone
Who wouldn't find out about me and then turn around and run 

I met the man I call my dad when I was five years old
He took my mom out to a movie and for once I got to go
A few months later I remember lying there in bed
I overheard him pop the question and prayed that she'd say yes 

And then all of a sudden
Oh, it seemed so strange to me
How we went from something's missing
To a family
Lookin' back all I can say
About all the things he did for me
Is I hope I'm at least half the dad
That he didn't have to be 

I met the girl that's now my wife about three years ago
We had the perfect marriage but we wanted somethin' more
Now here I stand surrounded by our family and friends
Crowded 'round the nursery window as they bring the baby in 

And now all of a sudden
It seemed so strange to me
How we've gone from something's missing
To a family
Lookin' through the glass I think about the man
That's standin' next to me
And I hope I'm at least half the dad
That he didn't have to be 

Lookin' back all I can say
About all the things he did for me
Is I hope I'm at least half the dad
That he didn't have to be 

Yeah, I hope I'm at least half the dad
That he didn't have to be
Because he didn't have to be
You know he didn't have to be

Some men become fathers because someone else wouldn't. How many kids do you know who have step-fathers? There's a lot of them. The thing that makes a lot of step-fathers great, the good ones at least, is that they did not have to be a father to a child. Rather, they chose to be. People like to be chosen. I, myself was, chosen by a "didn't-have-to-be" dad and am certainly thankful for him.

Finally, there's the involved father. I am happy to say that I am lucky to have two of them. Two of them? Yes, two of them. Both my step-father and father have always been involved with my life. It's absolutely wonderful having two involved fathers in my life! So what does an involved father look like? I'll use Chris Young's "Flashlight" to illustrate what an involved father looks like. Here it is:

"Flashlight"

He said: Son hold it still
Keep that beam shining straight
He has 9/16 in one hand, working on that Chevrolet
It seemed like every Saturday
Soon as the sun went down
We'd be huddled underneath that hood
Tinkerin' around
And of all the great memories I had
The best ones are those nights
Just me and my dad

He'll never know how much he taught me
Out in that garage
And I guess the stuff that stuck
More about life than fixing cars
Cause till this day
I still can't make them run right
But I sure did learn a lot
Just Holding the flashlight

He told me a lot of stories
About grandpa and the war
While he was trying to show me
What a carburetor is for
I've learned a couple of curse words
When he skinned his knuckles up
And I found out mama was the only girl
He ever really loved
But when I've asked him about women
He just laughed
If we stayed out here all year
We wouldn't have time enough for that

He'll never know how much he taught me
Out in that garage
And I guess the stuff that stuck
More about life than fixing cars
Cause till this day
I still can't make them run right
But I sure did learn a lot
Just Holding the flashlight

Now till this day
I still can't make them run right
But deep inside I know that's all right
Cause sure did learn a lot
Holding the flashlight

I, too, have held the flashlight many times for my fathers. I've heard the curse words when they skinned their knuckles, I've been shown how things work, I've heard the laughs about women and how complicated they can be and I've heard a lot of stories too. I also can say that the things that stuck with me is also more about life. Great life lessons can be learned from a father who is truly involved in his children's lives, a father who knows how to love. That's the key-love.  So, I believe that the true measure of  a man can often be found in how he loves his children. I'm happy to say that I've got two men in my life who "measure up!" I just hope I can "walk straight," "be half the dad he didn't have to be" and teach my children a lot while they hold the "flashlight" when I become a father. That, my friends, is just a few thoughts from a small town southern man!

Here is the links to the story about Myles Eckert:

 http://www.theblaze.com/stories/2014/03/02/the-incredible-thing-an-8-year-old-boy-did-for-a-soldier-will-be-remembered-for-a-lifetime/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=story&utm_campaign=ShareButtons

Here are the links to all the songs:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U1no7Or9BeI

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BjO1F6oCab8

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4h_7xLYS9Fc