The Old Timer's Verse

I always thought Walt Whitman’s quote read, “… you MAY contribute a verse.” When I realized it was actually, “… you WILL contribute a verse,” it struck home. Our choice is not IF we will make our mark in the world but HOW. I stopped to think about what kind of contribution I was making in the lives of people around me. Positive or negative, insignificant or inspirational… my verse is my choice.

Today, my thoughts are entirely on a man whose verse has been read (literally) and felt by so many people. My grandfather, Chuck Redfern (aka The Old Timer) wrote an article in the local paper that had my home town laughing and reflecting every week on politics, education, religion, everyday life and, of course, UT football and The Red Head (his beloved wife).

Entertainment and laughter were a hallmark of his life. He made appearances as a cheerleader and raisin in the Cabaret, performed magic shows, won the title of “Miss Athens” to raise money for cancer research and executed a beautiful ballet routine in The Womanless Beauty Contest (which also raised funds for a charitable cause). He had us all in stitches and reminded us to “not take ourselves too seriously.”

He reached out to others in covert ways as well; quietly offering a hand up to someone in need without recognition. He read and mentored children who were in need of special attention and readily offered advice to any who sought it from him. He was continuously thinking of others and how he could help them improve their lives.

Papaw’s life-time achievements and experiences are impressive, to say the least, and volumes could be written about them. But what makes me the proudest is his love and respect for others. “Say something complimentary to someone every day,” was a rule he lived by. Everyone was important to him, and he made sure they knew it.

I recently found a letter he sent me in college. He included the following, which he had posted above his typewriter.

See yourself as you want to be.

You can do anything if you think you can.

You are what you think you are and what you think about.

You are known by the company you keep.

Take care of yourself. Good health is everyone’s major.

Have a good sense of humor. Don’t take yourself too seriously.

Be compassionate with the aged.

Respect your parents.

Avoid getting angry. Abrasive people are not liked.

Say something complimentary to someone every day.

Learn to communicate properly. Talk slow enough to be understood.

Be competitive. Strive to be a winner. (or a runner up)

Learn to know your strengths and your weaknesses.

Chuck Redfern’s verse is one of hard work, Christian values, laughter and love. He spoke to us all, not only with words, but through his warm smile, firm handshake and powder-blue eyes.

On this day, I resolve to plagiarize my grandfather’s verse and share with all who will listen. I’m certain he would not mind. In fact, I know he would be proud.