To the editor: As another winter fades away, I find myself ruminating on summers past. I remember, when I was about 10, laying in my front yard enjoying the clouds and incredibly blue sky. It was a beautiful day.
My attire during these summer months consisted of cut-off pants, washed when absolutely necessary. I turned to watch the wind play in Mr. Dodson’s cornfield. At that time in my life, entertainment came easily. If I wished to fish, I merely went to the barn and knocked down a wasp nest for bait. The occasional sting was accepted as part of this exercise.
I would kick back on the bank and just watch my cork. Sometimes, I may even catch a fish. On a really special day, I would ride my bike to Pappa Clardy’s store.
I could always beg for a penny piece of candy. Sitting in the shade and eating my candy made a lifelong memory. My horse, Prince, created quite a few memories and taught me a lesson or two. For instance, if he showed a propensity to kick, you get out of his range. If he seemed inclined to bite, you take him at his word. The pain of a horse nip stays with you for quite a while.
To try to impart the importance of these young memories would be impossible. It was truly a time of closeness, understanding, support, kindness, time of clinging to those you love. Knowing that no matter how bad things got, you could always go home.
For God to bless me with these incredible people speaks to his amazing Grace. It was a time of preparedness for those many unforeseen events that were yet to come. I feel blessed beyond words to have been a part.
Bobby Clardy
Toccoa