FOREWARD Sometimes, the greatest parables can be found in
everyday situations. What you’re about to read is something that
happened to me in August, 1964. It’s the story of an encounter
between me and my father, C. E. Hinson. I’ll never forget the
lesson he taught me that day … it’s one that I’ve passed down to
my children, and to others. It’s my prayer that you’ll find the
lesson in it, as well, and pass it on to those who can use the
wisdom he conveyed in this. My dad was, in my eyes, the greatest
man God could’ve put in the 20 th Century. He and my mama were
the epitome of what Christ taught … and, to their memory, I
dedicate this story. I hope you enjoy it.
A LESSON FROM AN OLD GUITAR Years ago, when I was just barely
into my teens, my dad came home from work carrying a battered,
old guitar. He knew I wanted to learn to play one – I’d seen
folk groups, country acts – even some new group called “The
Beatles” playing them, and it looked like so much fun. In fact,
while these performers were on TV, I’d watch carefully for the
close-up shots, and (using a baseball bat as a “guitar”) I’d
mimic their fingering, position of the chords and timing. When
he gave me the acoustic guitar, I sat down and, propping it up
on my knee, began to position my fingers on the neck, just as I
had seen the performers do. Certainly, I was going to be the
next Elvis. But he did something that I’ll remember to my dying
day: He took a big, calloused hand, put it over the fingerboard
and stopped me from playing! Then he said, “Son, wait a minute.
Let me tell you a little story. You see, Life’s a lot like that
old guitar you’ve got, especially when it’s time to pay your
dues. And, just like the sounds you can make on that guitar, the
onesyou make in life is entirely up to you. We can’t stop you
from framming away at it like an off-tune madman any more than
we can stop you from playing beautiful music. When you get to be
an adult, it’s going to be the same thing when you’re ‘out
there’ in the real world. Nobody can stop you; it’s your choice
as to what type of ‘music’ you give them. Now, you see those
strings, and how you’re holding them down with your fingertips?
Each note is meant to create harmony with each other. That's
your goal in life, son … learn to place each thing you do …each
step you take … so it’ll be in harmony with mankind. Otherwise,
just like with the guitar, you’re gonna make such a noise that
nobody’ll want to hear you.” I listened intently; this was good
stuff! Then he continued, “And, by and by, you’ll learn how to
sing with that guitar – maybe even write a few tunes yourself.
When you do, remember that a simple tune does better when the
words are from the heart. Make them easy for people to learn …
to keep in their mind. And you’re painting a picture with each
one. Son, remember to do the same thing in your everyday doings,
and you’ll make friends and be happier than you ever thought.
And that ‘song’ that you sing … the one you show everyday in
your actions … will be the one that’ll go ‘number one’ with your
friends and others. Just leave the lyrics open to your brother’s
and sister’s point of view, and they’ll be humming that song
long after you’ve gone. Now … let’s hear you play …”
|
