Southern Quotes Page Two
#70--From Volume II Issue 18
Hello porchers! New Year's Day ranks high on my favorite holiday list. There's nothing to do but get together with friends and family and have a
great time. Plus, no one expects a lot of from the hostess, just a few chips and dips--my kind of party. I've been looking high and low for the perfect
southern quote to start the New Year off and I'm pretty sure I found it. I hope you like it as much as I do. There's one small catch. Although nothing
would make me happier than to attribute this wisdom to a southerner, I couldn't locate the author! I realize I'm breaking the rules with an anonymous
quote, but the last time I checked, I was still the boss here at All Things Southern. ~smile~ You might want to print this one out for the refrigerator,
it's a keeper. Now, how's this for a great way to jumpstart 2003? "Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from
here and make a brand new ending." --Anonymous
#71--From Volume II Issue 19
He was born into slavery and poverty on a tobacco farm in
Virginia. The year was 1856. Fueled by a deep conviction to the dignity of hard work, Booker T. Washington would rise
above the odds life dealt him to become the foremost educator and leader of black Americans at the turn of the century. I
like this quote from our fellow southerner because it reminds us of the enormous potential of human relationships and
challenges us to treat each other with the proper respect. Today's "It's Been Said" quote reads...
"Wherever our life touches yours, we help or hinder...wherever your life touches ours, you make us stronger or weaker. There
is no escape -- man drags man down, or man lifts man up." --fellow southerner Booker T. Washington/ U.S. educator, social
reformer
#72--From Volume II Issue 20
Today's southern quote features the late Walker Alexander Percy, a southern writer who was often referred to as a philosophical novelist. Listen to his quote.
"Consciously cultivate the ordinary." --Walker Alexander Percy
Isn't that good? Let me tell you what Mr. Percy's quote says to me. When a farmer cultivates the ground, he turns it over
and breaks up the hard-packed soil. This process serves the duel purpose of restoring oxygen to the soil and uprooting the
injurious weeds. Mr. Percy's quote inspires us to look deeper into our lives, to turn over the things that appear ordinary
and dry and find the beauty hidden in our everyday lives. "Consciously cultivate the ordinary." Think about it...
#73--From Volume II Issue 21
Hello porchers! If you've listened to the news lately, you've heard the number--13 million. That's the number of illegal aliens the census bureau
estimates to be wandering around our country. We're all at risk, Democrats, Republicans, Independents, liberals and conservatives alike. Which means
we can all agree that when they're found they need to be shown the door, right? Wrong! We've got some politicians willing to do more than look the
other way; they want to provide these illegals with social security! Yep! They want us hard-working American taxpayers to cut 'em a check.
Help me, please. I can't even get to the logistical question of how exactly that would work, you know, delivering checks to folks that aren't registered
with legal addresses? I'm stuck on "why"? I'm a simple southern girl, but back on Bull Run Road Papa taught us right from wrong and he made sure our
reward for doing wrong stayed with us! These people have broken our laws. I can tell you how Papa would reward 'em-- he'd show 'em the door. Then, if
they played by the rules, they could come back. It just makes sense, but then that's in short supply these days. It all reminds me of a good old
southern saying. My Papa would say, --"Those politicians are going up fool's hill on the slippery side."--Southern Saying
#74--From Volume II Issue 22
Cahaba, Alabama is a deserted antebellum town reminiscent of the old Hee-Haw line, "if it weren't for bad luck, we'd have no luck at all."
Once the first capital of Alabama, this place was the good life's poster child. That was before the floods, the tragedies of war and pains of
reconstruction. Today coyotes, squirrels and alligators roam the crumbling remains of the once proud boomtown.
Today's southern quote comes from a tour map of Cahaba. Pulled from the obituary of a prominent citizen of the 1800's named Joseph Babcock, this
excerpt suggests our Mr. Babcock suffered from the same streak of luck that took down his beloved Cahaba. It reads...
"When Babcock suffered a stroke, Rev. Cotten and Doctor Ulmer rushed to his side. Ulmer bled him, caused him to vomit, gave him an enema, and
administered electric shock. The patient died shortly after the treatment."
--Southern history as recounted in a tour map of Cahaba Alabama
It's me again, porchers. Think about that the next time you get your doctor's bill! It should make it easier to swallow...
#75--From Volume II Issue 23
She was born in Birmingham, Alabama in 1954. Her mother, a teacher and pianist, composed her unusual name from a musical term meaning, "with
sweetness". Her friends know her as Condi. You'll recognize her given name. Since January 22, 2002, Condaleeza Rice has served her country
as the National Security Advisor to President George W. Bush.
Often referred to as "markedly southern", even Condaleeza's critics
are willing to agree that she is a poised, charming and gracious lady. Although Condaleeza's political rise hasn't come without the usual questions
about her race and gender, her refreshing answers are anything but typical. As far as the advantages and disadvatages she's face, Condaleeza say's that
since she can't go back and recreate herself as a white male, she chooses not to dwell on them.
Today's southern quote from Condaleeza is one we'd all do well to consider. It reads...
"It is a dangerous thing to ask why someone else has been given more. It is humbling and indeed healthy to ask why you've been given so much."
--Condaleeza Rice, National Security Advisor to President George W. Bush
#76--From Volume II Issue 24
Hello porchers! I scan a lot of sources to bring you this feature each week. I've gradually developed a couple of personal criteria
that help me to decide if a quote makes the grade. One of them is "stick-a-ability", whether or not the thought stays with me after
I put the quote book down. The other is a test of its power to impact me, whether in encouragement, or rebuke. I read a ton of
quotes last night and woke up this morning with this one still turning over in my mind--it's a keeper.
Today's speaker was born in 1835 and christened Samuel Langhorne Clemens. He became Mark Twain, American Icon. It's easy to picture
the late great humorist in his famous white suit, with his ever-present cigar commenting sagely on the power of the spiteful
word. Mr. Twain said... "It takes your enemy and your friend, working together to hurt
you; the one to slander you and the other to bring you the news."--Mark Twain
#77--From Volume II Issue 25
Today's quote comes from an article I recently read in the New York Times by a Mr. Blaine Harden. The title is catchy, "Born on the Bayou with Little
Urge to Roam." I like that!
It's the story of Vacherie, La., a small Cajun town on the banks of the
Mississippi River that owns the distinction of being the most rooted town in the most rooted state in the country. Folks born in Vacherie tend to stick
close to home--and to mama. The story of Vacherie speaks to one of my favorite themes. Our culture--the
southern culture--produces good people with strong family bonds. Here's a quote from Glenn Petre, a Harvard-educated filmmaker who left Cajun country,
only to return. Glenn says... "It is easy to pick up and move when the culture you know is all McDonald's.
But if you grow up the way I did in Louisiana, you don't in your travels find anything like it. Some of it is the cuisine, but mostly it is a mind-set."
--Glenn Petre
#78--From Volume II Issue 26
Hey folks, one of your fellow porchers, Chris Williamson in Idaho, writes in that she has a friend that's always saying, "flat as a flitter." Chris
wanted to know if anyone on the porch knows what a flitter is? It seemed like the best place to answer her question would be here on our "Southern
Quote" feature. Chris, a flitter is a cow patty-or a cow chip. Now, in case you're still confused, these are all terms that refer to the aromatic refuse
one is liable to find in a cow pasture. The saying, "flat as a flitter" came about because these little hills of unpleasantness tend to melt and
flatten out on a hot summer's day in the south. Now that you have a visual, allow me to sum it up with a little southern wisdom for y'all...
"Never kick a cow chip on a hot day and always drink upstream from the herd."--Southern Saying
#79--From Volume II Issue 27
By the time you hear today's southern quote, we could be at war with Iraq. All I know is, it's definitely getting closer all the time. Personally, I thought Colin Powell did a fine job of detailing the many ways Sadaam has thumbed his nose at the U. N. and why he's
a threat not only to us but to the future of the entire world. Of course, the French didn't get it, but what else is new?
I couldn't help but wonder if it would've helped had Colin chose to break it down for them in simple southern terms. For instance,
he could've said... "Ladies and Gentleman, Sadaam is hiding weapons, you know it and we know it. With all due respect, anyone with half a brain can tell the man is busier than a cat covering poop on a marble floor."--Southern Saying
#80--From Volume II Issue 28
He was born in an Indian village in Tennessee. His father, a white trader, abandoned his Cherokee mother before he was born. As an adult
he became intrigued with the written words of the white settlers. He called the books and letters "talking leaves" and marveled at their
ability to record thoughts, dreams and intentions. Sequoyah was determined to provide this advantage to his own people. By the year
1809, this extraordinary Indian succeeded in inventing an easy system of reading and writing known as the Cherokee alphabet.
Perhaps it is my love of books that endears this southerner and his quote to me. I know that many times I have to write about something
that I've seen or heard before I really understand how I feel about it. Listen and consider the truth of Sequoyah's motivation. He said...
"When a talk is made and put down, it is good to look at it afterward." --Sequoyah, Tennessee-born Native American
#81--From Volume II Issue 29
H. Jackson Brown, Jr. has always used words and images to make a living. For years, his efforts were focused on promoting his clients'
products at his advertising agency in Nashville Tennessee. Then he compiled his parents' wisdom and his own life experiences into two
popular collections, "A FATHER'S BOOK OF WISDOM" and "P.S. I LOVE YOU." I have them both. Now, if by chance you missed the first
two, I'm sure you've heard of his third, LIFE'S LITTLE INSTRUCTION BOOK. This best-seller has often been described as "America's
favorite little book."
Today's Southern Quote from Mr. H. Jackson Brown, Jr. strips us
all of one of our favorite excuses. Mr. Brown says... "Don't say you don't have enough time. You have exactly the same
number of hours per day that were given to Helen Keller, Pasteur, Michaelangelo, Mother Teresa, Leonardo da Vinci, Thomas Jefferson,
and Albert Einstein." -- H. Jackson Brown
#82--From Volume II Issue 30
Hey porchers, I can't help but identify with this quote from Southern humorist Roy Blount, Jr...
"If you were a member of Jesse James's band and people asked you what you were, you wouldn't say, 'Well, I'm a desperado.' You'd say
something like, 'I work in banks,' or 'I've done some railroad work.' It took me a long time just to say, 'I'm a writer.' It's really
embarrassing."--Roy Blount, Jr.
#83--From Volume II Issue 31
Hello porchers! If you've been around here for any length of time, you know that I very seldom use an anonymous quote here in our
"It's Been Said" feature. Papa taught me to try to give credit where credit is due. That being said, ever so often I run across
a quote that so resonates with me that I have to share it. Though I was unable to trace this definition of "Freedom", I hope you'll
enjoy its message. It reads...
"Freedom is the man puttering in his garden and swapping talk with
his neighbor. It is saying, "howdy stranger" without fear. It is the people making up their own minds. It's singing the "Star
Spangled Banner" off-key and meaning every word. Freedom is the air you breathe and the sweat of your skin. It is you and millions
like you with your chins up daring anybody to take it away from you. --Unknown
#84--From Volume II Issue 32
He was born into a prosperous Virginia farming family and was by turns a surveyor, a planter and a soldier. His courage and leadership as a Commander
in the face of overwhelming military odds made him a hero in the eyes of a young continent whose citizens were fighting to establish their own
national identity. You would recognize his nickname, "the father of our country," but did you know that George Washington once quelled a movement
to declare him king of the newly freed people? Instead of creating a military dictatorship, George Washington worked to create a government unlike any the
world had ever known--a government for the people, by the people. Today's quote from the first president of these United States of America was recorded
two centuries ago, and still it speaks to us today. It reads...
"The fate of unborn millions will now depend, under God, on the courage and
conduct of this army."-- George Washington
#85--From Volume II Issue 33
She was born in rural West Virginia. She joined the army fresh out of high school to see the world and earn the college education that would
one day allow her to become an elementary school teacher. On March 23rd, 2003, Private First Class Jessica Lynch along with the other members
of the 507th Maintenance Company of the U.S army made a wrong turn and drove into an ambush. It will be some time before the horrors of that
moment and the hell of the next eleven days of her life are fully known, if indeed they can ever be told. What is known for now is that Private
Lynch is the only living POW rescued since World War I and the only female POW to ever be brought home alive.
I am honored to quote PFC Jessica Lynch in today's Southern Quote feature. Lying broken and in pain, with her face hid beneath a sheet in fear, this
19-year old, five-foot-four prisoner of war being held in Nasiriya, Iraq heard the words of her rescuers identifying themselves as United States
soldiers, coming to protect her and take her home. Lowering the cover, Private First Class Jessica Lynch uttered the inspirational words that
have captured the heart of her nation... "I'm an American soldier, too."--PFC Jessica Lynch
#86--From Volume II Issue 34
Believe it or not, I still continue to receive letters about Natalie Maines. I'm serious. Not a day goes by that I don't hear from someone
on one side of the fence or the other. Now, if you're thinking we're about to rehash the whole thing, you can just relax, I don't have the
time or the energy. But the whole thing reminded me of a solid bit of country wisdom that's just perfect for today's "It's Been Said" feature.
Of course, it's also a good visual because that's our southern way of speaking, don't 'ya know. Don't get me wrong. Heaven knows I'm not
saying we always follow this advice, but we're very familiar with the warning. Our elders told us...
"Be careful not to run your mouth before you put your mind in gear. You can apologize all you want afterwards, but it's like shutting the
barn door after the horse gets out."-- Southern Saying
#87--From Volume II Issue 35
Let's review for a moment. The war in Iraq is over. Sadaam's regime is dead. As of this writing, their dictator's fate hasn't been confirmed,
although every indication suggests he's history as well. It took the coalition less than three weeks to free the Iraqi people from three
decades of this abusive dictatorship. While the sacrifice of even one soldier is tragic, I'm very thankful that the number of casualties was
surprisingly low. And I'm grateful that millions of Iraqis woke up breathing free air this morning.
The coalition should be proud. Americans should be proud. And we are, except for a few predicable naysayers who could never allow themselves
to express pride in our military--why, that would be unthinkable! Instead they're searching frantically for a bone to pick on. Their new soapbox
would be funny if it weren't so exasperating: Their complaint is that it's been all of two weeks and we haven't established a working democracy
in Iraq yet. Never mind the continued threats from suicidal foreign terrorists and disgruntled stragglers of Sadaam's regime. No, they're
concerned that our soldiers aren't restoring order quickly enough. Oh, how I wish Tim Robbins and Susan Saranwrap were within earshot so I
could share an old southern saying with 'em... "It's hard to pump out the swamp when you're up to your armpits in
alligators."--Southern Saying
#87--From Volume II Issue 36
If I had the good fortune to be introduced to you in person, my first instinct would be to shake your hand. I come from a long
line of hand-shakers. Funny thing, it's become obvious to me that not all women shake hands. I know this because I've often had
people look at me in surprise when I offered them mine.
I've always felt shaking hands was like an instant personality quiz
for both parties. Evidently, I'm in good company on this one. Today's southern quote comes from the late author and educator Helen Keller.
I find Ms. Keller's handshake observations even more revealing because they were made without the shadows and suggestions of sight. Ms. Keller
said... The hands of those I meet are dumbly eloquent to me. The touch of some hands is impertinence. I have met people so empty of joy, that when
I clasped their frosty fingertips, it seemed as if I were shaking hands with a northeast storm. Others there are whose hands have sunbeams in
them, so that their grasp warms my heart.--Helen Keller
#87--From Volume II Issue 37
Les Brown and his twin brother were born in Miami, Florida in the low-income district. Six week's later the boys were adopted by a single mother
with little to offer them in the material sense. Fortunately, Mamie Brown possessed something far more valuable, a very big heart. The restless
energy and insatiable curiosity that have since propelled Les to success made him a distracted grade school student and earned him a "slow learner"
label that would haunt him for years.
Armed with only a high school education, and fueled by a passion to
realize his own potential and help others to achieve theirs, Les has been a morning DJ, broadcast manager; community leader; political
commentator, and a three-term legislator. Today he is an award winning premier keynote speaker. Today's southern quote by best-selling author
and celebrity Les Brown reads... "The only limits to the possibilities in your life tomorrow are the 'buts'
you use today."--Les Brown
#88--From Volume II Issue 38
Are you ready for our southern quote? "It's Been Said" is one of my favorite features. I love to showcase the wit and wisdom of our region.
It's a privilege to debunk the myth of the backward southerner the media is so fond of showcasing. So we use a lot of words? Last I heard
no one was charging by the syllable. Besides, we're carefully pickin' from the language like a great artist selects from his color palette
because we're fond of word pictures. We know they leave a lasting impression. That my friend is southern speak, and I'm proud of it. For
instance, you know dreams aren't enough, a person has to get off his or her backside and make their dreams come true. But listen to this quote
from Curtis Grant of Fairhope, Alabama. I'm willing to bet the farm that you can't hear it and not see a visual that drives the point home.
It reads...
"Having the world's best idea will do you no good unless you act on it. People who want milk shouldn't sit on a stool in the middle of a field
in hopes that a cow will back up to them."--Curtis Grant
#89--From Volume II Issue 39
He was born on the 28th of December 1856 in Staunton, Virginia. A late bloomer, Woodrow suffered from an undiagnosed condition called dyslexia.
As a result, he was ten years old before he learned to read. Fortunately for him, and for the rest of us, the prize goes to those that finish the
race, not those quickest out of the blocks. Today's "It's Been Said" featured speaker would soon develop into an intellectual young man with
a passion for literature and politics. He would also become the 28th president of these United States of America, best known for leading
his country into World War I.
We don't know whom President Woodrow Wilson had in mind when he spoke
the following words; history recorded his thoughts, not the personalities that inspired them. Still, I believe we can all use them as inspiration
to continue to grow, even as we age. Today's southern quote by Thomas Woodrow Wilson reads...
"Wisdom doesn't necessarily come with age. Sometimes age just shows up by itself."-- (Thomas) Woodrow Wilson
#89--From Volume II Issue 40
Some might think that if I were to quote the 35th President of these United States, I'd use his famous line about serving your country. While
that's a good quote, I've found another bit of wisdom attributed to Pres. Kennedy that speaks to my heart and I hope it will speak to yours.
Farming is in my husband's blood, and it's found it's way into the heart of my son. We've never looked to get rich off of farming. We just ask to
pay our bills, and take care of our family. That order gets harder to fill each year as the price we get for our commodities stays the same or
falls, and the price we pay for everything it takes to make a crop-- seed, fuel, chemicals, continues to rise. The farmer doesn't set a price for his
goods; he has to accept what the market decrees. But enough from me, I'll let the eloquent words of President John F. Kennedy speak to the subject. The late President Kennedy once said... "The farmer is the only man in our economy who buys everything at retail,
sells everything he sells at wholesale and pays the freight both ways."--John F. Kennedy
#89--From Volume II Issue 41
She was born on August 22, 1957, in San Antonio, TX. After graduating from college in 1981, Holly Dunn took her musical talents to Nashville. Four years later, she penned a Father's Day Gift for her dad called "Daddy's Hands" and simultaneously scored her first big hit. I still
remember when it hit the airwaves and the instant visual I got of my Papa's hands. For today's southern quote, allow me the pleasure of reciting these touching lyrics in honor of my father and yours...
"I remember Daddy's hands folded silently in prayer, and reaching out to
hold me when I had a nightmare. You could read quite a story in the calluses and lines, years of work and worry had left their mark behind. I remember Daddy's hands, how they held my Mama tight. And patted my back for something I'd done right...Daddy's hands weren't always gentle,
but I've come to understand, there was always love In Daddy's hands. If I could do things over, I'd live my life again, and never take for granted the love in Daddy's hands."--Holly Dunn
#90--From Volume II Issue 42
The timing just seems right to forgo a quote today from one of our more celebrated southerners to nod towards the everyday sayings of the south again. I love showcasing the unique turn of phrase that flavors our Dixie Dialect. Don't forget. In addition to all of you true southerners, we
have a ton of non-southerners rocking and swinging with us here on the porch. I feel a certain obligation to teach these good folks the fine art of layering the language. For instance, a person that's not from around these parts might say something like: "a hungry man will eat anything."
While we wouldn't disagree with that notion, we might play with the wording a little and say it this way...
"Hungry is a mighty fine sauce."--Southern folk saying
#91--From Volume II Issue 44
He was born in Wilmington, North Carolina in 1934 with a life-long passion for reporting. You might remember him best as the wistful host of "On the Road" with Charles Kuralt. His look at the lives of his fellow countrymen became a favorite segment of CBS news, lasting 20 years.
From the driver's seat of a motor home, he introduced America to America, bringing us everyone from a 104-year-old jogger to the owner of the world's largest ball of string.
Today's southern quote from Mr. Kuralt speaks to my own experiences
lately. Y'all know all about my recent computer problem. However, I'm not sure you realize what a blessing it turned out to be. While the glitch caused some folks to jump off my cyber porch in a huff, the greater majority wrote in to encourage me and express their loyalty
to what I'm doing. You know who you are. ~smile~ And in your honor, I'd like to quote the late Mr. Charles Kuralt who once said... "It does no harm just once in a while to acknowledge that the whole country isn't in flames, that there are people in the country besides politicians, entertainers, and criminals...The everyday kindness of the back roads more than makes up for the acts of greed in the
headlines." --Charles Kuralt
#92--From Volume II Issue 45
Hello folks! I'm enjoying hearing from those of you whose sons, daughters, fathers and mothers are arriving back home from the war in Iraq. I'm truly happy for you. (I posted some updates of the incoming porchers at the Yellow Ribbon Gallery.) At the same time, my
heart breaks for the families of those whose loved ones won't be coming home. Although I can't pretend to understand their grief, I am familiar with the fragile peace of those who must continue to wait. My nephew, PFC James Rushing Guenard is scheduled to come home in September. I'll
be glad when he stands again on American soil. As our soldiers make their way home, I'd like to use the words of the very first president of these United States to challenge you to welcome them, support them, and help them heal. For it was George Washington who once said..
"The willingness with which our young people are likely to serve in any war, no matter how justified, shall be directly proportional to how they perceive the veterans of other wars were treated and appreciated by their nation. -- George Washington
#93--From Volume II Issue 46
She was reared on a small family farm in Mississippi by a God fearing, Bible believing, grandmother who taught her to read at an unusually early age and pronounced her "gifted". Although the little girl didn't understand the label, the unconditional
approval she felt left an indelible mark in her spirit. She credits it as the strength that helped her survive the abuse and molestation she would suffer before the age of 13, as well as the force that fueled her dream of a career in public
speaking. Today, the little farm girl is the host of the number one talk show in the nation, The Oprah Winfrey Show and has been named as one of the 100 Most Influential People of the 20th Century.
Even so, it's Oprah's love of books that brings her to our
Southern Quote feature. I spent my childhood days, once my chores were done, in the top of a Formosa tree, devouring books from the parish Bookmobile that lumbered down our country road a couple times a month. While Ms. Winfrey's quote speaks to those
summers of my past, I hope the suggestive power of the written word will challenge us all to read more today. For Ms. Winfrey once said... "Books were my pass to personal freedom. I learned to read at age three, and soon discovered there was a whole world to conquer
that went beyond our farm in Mississippi. -- Oprah Winfrey
#94--From Volume II Issue 47
Not too long ago there was a popular country tune on the radio whose lyrics read, "I'm in a hurry and don't know why." My family thought
it should be my theme song. I've been in a hurry about as long as anyone can remember. I'll be the first to admit that I have a heavy
driving foot. Unfortunately, I have a few speeding tickets on my record to prove it. But here's what I want to know. Does anyone ever
get tickets for driving too slow? I always see minimum speed laws posted, but I've never spoken to anyone who got a ticket for going
under the speed limit or knew someone who did!
I only mention it because it's time for our southern quote. We've
heard from a lot of our famous southerners recently. Today we're gonna take another look at some of the southern sayings of the not
so famous. I'm thinking it must have been someone stuck in traffic behind a speed-challenged motorist that first said,
"He's so slow he's got to speed up to stop." -- Southern Saying
#94--From Volume II Issue 48
She was born and raised in the small rural town of Thomasville, Alabama. After graduating from college in 1939, she struggled to find a job in
journalism. When the male reporters were drafted into World War II, Kathryn Tucker Windham saw her chance to become a reporter and she became a very
good one. That was her first life. Fate soon found Kathryn in the form of a surprise invitation to speak at a National Storytelling festival in
Tennessee. The rest of the story is still being written. Sixty-four years later, at the age of 85, Kathryn continues to tell of froghousees, sweet
potatoes and one-horse towns--odes to the rural south. Only now she is one of Alabama's best-known citizens, the author of 23 books, and a
nationally known storyteller.
Today's southern quote from Kathryn Tucker Windham reads...
"I think we need to be put back in touch with our childhood...to be reminded of what's important, like memories about people we loved,
or things that happened to us that affected our lives, things we can laugh about and shed a few tears about... I think storytelling is a
way of saying 'I love you. I love you enough to tell you something that means a great deal to me.' " -- Kathryn Tucker Windham
#95--From Volume II Issue 49
In 1939 a short guy from Texas posed with the grand prize of one of golf's biggest events--the U.S. Open. An accomplishment sure, but
even more so for an underprivileged kid whose self-taught golf swing was often described as the look of someone fighting to retain his
balance. Still, if you knew Lee Trevino it wouldn't surprise you to see his stance become rock-solid at the instant he needed to strike
the ball. You'd recognize it as fitting analogy for a man whose entire life is a lesson in struggling and overcoming.
Lee Trevino was raised in a run-down shack near the golf course of the Dallas Athletic Club. Golf was initially a way to earn change
finding the lost balls of the more affluent, caddying came next and only then the love of the sport. Critics predicted a short career
for his homemade game, but Lee continued to dominate until that fateful day in '75 when he was struck by lightening while playing
at the Western Open. After many painful operations Lee surprised the golf world again by returning to win the Canadian Open, twice--
and the PGA. It is Lee's characteristically humorous response to the reporter who asked him what he learned about the lightening strike
that brings him to our southern quote. For Mr. Trevino said... "I learned that when God wants to play through, you better let
Him." --Lee Trevino
#96--From Volume II Issue 50
She was born in McLemoresville, Tennessee. By the age of four she declared her intentions to sing at the Metropolitan Opera in New
York City. That self-confident little belle has since become an accomplished singer, actress and writer. Though she has many stage
and screen credits, it was her role as the soft spoken yet out-spoken, classy but sassy, Julia Sugarbaker on the comedy hit, Designing Women,
that secured Dixie Virginia Carter a place in television history.
Recently I caught an interview with Ms. Carter on the Bill O'Reily
show. I was happy to hear that "Designing Women" has taped a reunion special. Ms. Carter told Bill that she'd like to see the show reborn--
contending that although such a sitcom sequel would be a first, she felt sure the magic was still there. "Maybe", Bill O'Reilly answered, "but wouldn't it have to be blunter and sexier for today's audience?"
It's Ms. Carter's answer that brings her to our Southern Quote today. For in her inimitable way Dixie Carter said... "I believe if something is good, Bill O'Reilly, I believe if something is good, you can do things with words and lift yourselves out of the
gutter..." -- Dixie Carter Well said, Dixie. Well said!
#97--From Volume II Issue 51
He was born in Texas in 1924. He spent most of his childhood at the local movie house, watching Westerns with money earned from selling newspapers and working at the local golf course. The shy boy with the speech impediment dreamed of becoming a cowboy.
Within a few short years, that dream faded for a time as the young man discovered football and his hometown discovered a hero. They called him "Terrific Tommy" back then as he guided his school to an undefeated season and a regional championship. You know him best as Coach Tom Landry, the man who took over-the-hill expansion team of castoffs and has-beens and produced a dynasty we called "America's Team". The shy young kid raised on westerns didn't just come to be the coach of the Dallas Cowboys, he became The Cowboys--an icon on the sidelines in a suit, hat and tie. The late Tom Landry comes to our Southern Quote today to offer us insight on why some people set goals and others attain them. For Coach Landry once said... Setting a goal is not the main thing. It is deciding how you will go about achieving it and staying with that plan. --Tom Landry
#98--From Volume II Issue 52
We didn't fall on hard times, we were raised there, but no one around us had any money either, so it was okay. Grandma Rushing took the frugal thing to a whole new level. I'm not saying she was tight, but she did recycle chewing gum. She'd place it on the bedpost at night and retrieve it the next day--unless my older sister Cyndie got to it first. Gross! Rhonda and I've never gotten over that. So, I understand working hard, watching your money and still finding yourself in a bind. I've known honest, hardworking farmers that had to face bankruptcy
because the price they got for their commodities kept going down while their expenses were rising. That's nothing to be ashamed of, but $400 million! That's what Mike Tyson has squandered. And now he has filed for bankruptcy. Unbelievable!
Now, before y'all write in with the poor undereducated Mike defense, let me just ask you. Once the first 100 million was gone, wouldn't
your learning curve have to improve? I say it calls for the wisdom of Will Rogers. Today's southern quote from Mr. Rogers reads, "If you find yourself in a hole, the first thing to do is stop diggin'". -- Will Rogers
#99--From Volume II Issue 53
She was born in Alabama, a perfectly healthy little girl until, at the age of eighteen months, a dangerously high fever sent her to the hospital. The doctors were able to save her; it'd be months before they realized the virus had destroyed her hearing.
Fortunately the little girl had been born into a strong family who raised her to believe that the greatest handicap is negative thinking. Throughout her childhood she never heard the discouraging voices of those that limited her future, only the encouraging onesof her mother. Still, the young girl didn't develop the positive outlook her mother desired overnight. She recounts a day from her teenage years when she was struggling with depression, afraid that she'd never be able to have a normal life.
Her mother's response brings them to our southern quote. The words not only stirred the young girl's heart that day, they continued to impact her until the day in 1995 when Heather Whitestone became the first handicapped woman in the 75-year history of the Miss American pageant to wear the crown. Eight years later, Heather continues to inspire others through her highly successful motivational speaking career. So what were her mother's words that Heather Whitestone held onto? I'm glad you asked and I quote, "Remember, Heather, the last four letters in the word American are I-C-A-N, in America, Heather, you can."-- Heather Whitestone recounting the words of her mother.
#100--From Volume II Issue 54
I was on my second cup of coffee, in a comfortable recliner in my own home. I felt the disbelief, shock, and then the overwhelming sadness
alone. As I watched, heroes rose up from among everyday people and a wave of pride joined my confused emotions. I felt compelled to find my children, my husband, my parents and friends. I'll never forget the depth of my feelings that day and the weeks and months that followed, though I was many, many miles away with no direct connections to the thousands of lives lost in the fire and rubble.
Our featured speaker today was born and raised in Newman, Georgia. The lanky blond-haired, blue eyed musician had already "arrived" in the
music business a long time before September 11th, 2001. But the raw and sincere words he put to music memorializing that day became a career defining hit and the cords that would bind the wounded and grieving with their fellow Americans and help us heal as a nation. In today's southern quote we pause to remember the victims of the attack on America and the Twin Towers and I offer you the now familiar words... "Where were you when the world stopped turning on that September day?" --Alan Jackson
#101--From Volume II Issue 55
Hey folks, it's time for "It's Been Said", our southern quote feature. Here in the Delta our men are hard at work harvesting their crops. Although I'm well aware that you don't have to labor in the great outdoors to put in an honest day's work, I really wanted to find a quote to share with y'all that would honor their efforts. For that's them you see draggin' home at dark-thirty, covered in dirt but looking surprisingly satisfied with themselves.
My search took me to Oklahoma and the story of a young man born to a father who worked long hours on the railroad and a mother who died when the young boy was 13. Our featured speaker moved in with an aunt,
and went to work so as not to be a burden. A few years later he entered the Navy to see the world and get an education. After completing his naval stint, Jim Ling became the youngest individual to pass the Master Electrical Contractor Exam. He went on to found Ling Electric, which became one of the largest industrial companies in the world. In honor of our farmers, I offer you this quote from Mr. Ling, who once said, "Don't tell me how hard you work, tell me how much you get done." --James Ling
#102--From Volume II Issue 56
It's time for today's southern quote. Now, since everyone has been asking me why I haven't talked about the California recall and election, I figured we'd just go hog wild and attach a southern saying to several of those characters, beginning with Gov. Davis, bless his heart. He's following Clinton's advice and doing his dead-level best to look like he's not at all worried but anyone can see he's "nervous as a long-tailed cat in a room full o' rocking chairs."
And what about the Porn King? Mr. Flynt said in his interview that there are no studies proving that porn is detrimental to you mentally or physically. He should've stopped there. The more he talked the more he looked and sounded like "exhibit A" for anyone wishing to challenge that theory. Frankly, the man's "as sorry as a two-dollar watch." For brevity's sake we'll go easy on Ms. Huff and Puff, also known as Arianna Huffington. Suffice to say "she'll never drown in her own sweat". Next up would be Gary Coleman. Poor Gary! Sean Hannity asked him who the Vice President was and Gary couldn't come up with an answer. He said he
knew who it was but he couldn't tell you because he wasn't thinking about that right then. And he did it with a great attitude, just "as happy as if he had good sense." Boy this is fun, but I've got to stop somewhere! What? You thought I'd forget about Arnold? Hmmm...I've not completely made up my mind about the Terminator, but I have a sneaking suspicion that he's "all vines and no taters--if you know what I mean." ~Shellie
#103--From Volume II Issue 57
He was born in Alabama in 1932, blessed with a big smile, a beautiful classical singing voice. After graduating from the University of Alabama, the pleasant fellow moved to Los Angeles and became a film cutter at NBC, indulging his stage dreams by doing cabaret after hours. Soon he was performing on Steve Allen's variety show. But it was Andy Griffith who caught his act and offered him a role on his popular sitcom about the town of Mayberry that made Jim Nabors famous. With a humble "gawwelee" and an energetic "shazzayam", Jim Nabors gave us the clumsy do-gooder, Gomer, and we gave him our hearts. In the years to come, Jim took his easy listening music and sang his way to the top with five albums going gold and one platinum. He even starred in his own variety series, but for many, he would always be Gomer.
Today's southern quote offers us a peek at the self-effacing humor of the ever-friendly country boy. It reads... "I think this story sums up my career the best. One time I was walking in an airport somewhere and I saw this woman with her young son. The son looked up at me and it was obvious that he recognized me. He thought for a second and he said 'Mom, there goes an old Gomer!'" --Jim Nabors
~Shellie
#103--From Volume II Issue 58
He was born in Oklahoma in 1949 to an alcoholic named Ray and his wife Wilma. They named the child Carlos and he spent his childhood helping his mom raise his two younger brothers on welfare. After high school graduation Carlos joined the Air Force where, during a stint in Korea,
he would become interested in the beauty and self-discipline of the martial arts. After returning to the states, Carlos worked for an aviation company and moonlighted as a karate instructor. By the age of 34, he had not only established 32 karate schools, he was ready to retire from the sport that had seen him reign for six years as the Professional World Middleweight Champion. Needing a new challenge now, the athletic blond turned to acting.
I'd list his screen credits, but I doubt any would be as familiar as a single line from the theme song of his long running CBS series. "When you're in Texas look behind you, 'cause that's where the Ranger's gonna be." For eight years my family sang along with Carlos Norris, you know him better as Chuck, as he took on the bad guys as a soft-spoken, hard fighting Texas Ranger. In the light of what's passing for entertainment these days, we could use another Walker, a capable hero who knew right from wrong and charmed us while he enforced it. Today's southern quote by actor Chuck Norris reads... "Men are like steel. When they lose their temper, they lose their worth." --Chuck Norris
#104--From Volume II Issue 59
She was born in Louisiana in 1886, three short years after the Emancipation Proclamation officially ended slavery. Nevertheless, Tebe'--as she was known to her family--still lived most of her life as a field hand and house servant for the well-known Melrose Plantation of the Cane River Region. When Tebe' was fifty-four, an artist visiting the plantation gave her some old tubes of paint to throw away. Tebe' kept them and in her words began to "mark some pictures." She painted what she knew, cotton-picking and pecan threshing, sugar cane, baptisms, funerals and weddings. Tebe's work showed no apparent ill feelings for the years of hard labor she'd known. Instead her paintings honored the rural South, telling stories of community and tradition through honest narratives full of life and movement.
Tebe', better known as Clementine Hunter, lived to be 101 years old. And though she never traveled more than fourteen miles from the place
of her birth, the world did find it's way to her door to marvel and purchase the colorful paintings of the self-taught artist. Today's southern quote from the late Clementine Hunter reads... "Paintin' is a lot harder than pickin' cotton. Cotton's right there for you to pull of the stalk, but to paint, you got to sweat yo' mind." --Clementine Hunter
#105--From Volume II Issue 60
He was born in extreme poverty in Albany, Georgia. It was 1930 and the country was in the throes of the Great Depression. When he was diagnosed with glaucoma at the age of four his mom dealt the hard truth to him directly: His sight would fade until he eventually went blind. Then she dedicated herself to teaching the child how to get around and find things when the world grew dark. For the next four years the little boy stored treasured colors, scenes and faces in his mind. During that time, a tragedy left it's own sad image behind when he witnessed the accidental drowning of his younger brother.
Years later, as a charity student at St. Augustine's School for the Blind, he discovered math and its relation to music, which led to an even greater discovery--the musical genius that is Ray Charles. He's since been called a national treasure and the Father of Soul. He has sung the blues, country, jazz and gospel, and amassed a pile of gold records and Grammy's. Ray Charles has always insisted that because of the way his mom handled his early diagnosis, losing his sight wasn't as hard as people imagine. Today's southern quote by Ray Charles is a humorous tribute to the importance of that strong maternal presence. It reads... "Nowadays they say you need a special chip to put in the TV so kids can't watch this and that. In my day, we didn't need a chip. My mom was the chip. End of story!"-- Ray Charles
#106--From Volume II Issue 61
He was born in Okena, Oklahoma in 1912 and christened Woodrow Wilson Guthrie. As a child he saw his father's business fail, his sister die in a house fire and his mother committed to an insane asylum. In later years, his music career would span the Great Depression, the Dust Bowl, and World War II and he'd experience several failed marriages and the death of his own little girl. Surely, Woody Guthrie could've indulged in songs of misery and self-pity. Instead, he became known for upbeat lyrics that spoke
for and inspired the common man, using honesty and humor to lift his fellow Americans without whitewashing their struggles. Listen now to the heart of this man that gave us songs like, "This Land is Your Land."
For the late Woody Guthrie once said, "I hate a song that makes you think you are aren't any good...songs that run you down or poke fun at you. I'm out to fight those songs with my very last breath and last drop of blood. I'm out to sing the song that proves to you that this is your world. If it's hit you pretty hard and
knocked you for a dozen loops, I'm out to sing the song that'll make you take pride in yourself and in your work. I could hire out, quit singing my songs and sing the kind that knock you down still further. But I decided long ago that I'd starve before I'd sing such songs as that. The radio waves, your movies, your jukeboxes and your songbooks are already loaded down and running over with such no good songs as that." -- Woody Guthrie
#107--From Volume II Issue 62
Harold Ray Ragsdale was born in Clarksdale Georgia and blessed with a wonderful sense of humor. He traces his music career back to an epiphany he had at the tender age of seven. He says he was sitting at the piano taking yet another mundane lesson when suddenly he looked at the keys and it all made sense. From that point music became his life.
Harold Ray wandered the music world for years, a prolific performer writing and singing gospel, country, comedy and pop. Fortunately for his fans, Harold Ray didn't understand the marketing strategy that says you should stick to one style of music to build an audience. His confusion became a blessing in disguise for music lovers of all stripes. For in time, Harold Ray Ragsdale became Ray Stevens, a world-class entertainer who practically created a music genre all his own. From "Everything is Beautiful," a simple ballad that topped the charts on both sides of the Atlantic, to the wildly popular novelty song,
"The Streak", Ray Stevens has entertained us like none other. Today's Southern Quote is just one more example of the zany humor of Ray Stevens, who once said... "The less you know, the more you think you know, because you don't know you don't know."--Ray Stevens
#108--From Volume II Issue 63
He was born Leroy Robert Paige on July 7, 1906 in Mobile, Alabama. Or was it 1905 or 1907? His age was always surrounded by mystery. He is credited with the well-known saying: "Age is a state of mind over matter. If you don't mind--it don't matter."
What is for certain is that Leroy's baseball career began in 1924
and he was soon considered the dominant pitcher in the Negro League. Then, in 1948--count that now, twenty-four years later--Leroy's lifetime dream came true when he was offered an opportunity to try out for the Cleveland Indians! To test the athlete's reputation for accuracy, a cigarette was place on the ground to be used as home plate. With characteristic flair, Leroy fired five fastballs into the catcher's mitt, four of them sailing directly over his tiny target. With that, Leroy "Satchel" Paige became the oldest rookie to compete in the Major League, a record that still stands, and the Indians went on to win the pennant. Today's quote reveals the heart of the man whose pro baseball career spanned five decades. For Satchel Paige once said... "There ain't no man that can avoid being born average, but there ain't no man got to be common."--Satchel Paige
#109--From Volume II Issue 64
As we celebrate Thanksgiving today with our friends and loved ones, I offer you an excerpt of a Thanksgiving Proclamation from the Oval Office.
"It has long been the honored custom of our people to turn in the fruitful autumn of the year in praise and thanksgiving to Almighty God for His many blessings and mercies to us as a nation. That custom we can follow now even in the midst of the tragedy of a world shaken by war and immeasurable disaster, in the midst of sorrow and great peril...Even amidst the darkness that has gathered about us we can see the great blessings God has bestowed upon us...We've been given the opportunity to serve mankind...by taking up arms against a tyranny that threatened to master and debase men everywhere...joining with other free peoples in demanding for all the nations of the world what we...demanded and obtained for ourselves. We should especially thank God that in such circumstances...we have...abundance with which to supply the needs of those associated with us as well as our own."--President Woodrow Wilson These words are as powerful and timely today as they were when they were first spoken by President Woodrow Wilson in November of 1917, only months after America had entered the first World War. ~Shellie
#110--From Volume II Issue 65
He was born in Virginia in 1923. Seven red headed sisters and brothers would come behind him. At the age of six, a poem he wrote about carting puppies in his little red wagon was published on the children's page of The Richmond Times. Although his dad was worried because little Earl
Hammer didn't own a puppy or a wagon, the young boy was hooked on a writing career.
Earl Hammer has since amassed a great body of work. He has achieved success through his own published novels, as well as his work in radio and television, garnering such prestigious awards as the Television Emmy
and the Peabody for Distinguished Journalism. In today's "Southern Quote" we look at an excerpt from Mr. Hammer's most overwhelming and critical success. For out of his childhood memories growing up in the hills of Virginia, Earl Hammer gave us a long running television series that
chronicled the tender years of an aspiring writer. Each week Earl Hammer as the narrator set the stage for the gentle episodes that taught us important life lessons while they entertained us through the daily struggles of a large Depression era family living and loving in a place
called "Walton's Mountain." Elizabeth: John-Boy.
John-Boy: Yes honey?
Elizabeth: Do flowers talk?
John-Boy: I don't know Elizabeth, why?
Elizabeth: I kissed a hollyhock today, I thought I heard something whisper. What do you think?
John-Boy: I think if we learnt to listen we could hear all kinds of miracles.
Elizabeth: Goodnight, John-Boy.
John-Boy: Goodnight, Elizabeth...
--Excerpt from "Walton's Mountain"~Shellie
#111--From Volume II Issue 66
If you've been around my porch for any length of time, you've heard me talk about my nephew Rusty--the one that's serving in Iraq. He's home right now on his two-week leave. Our extended family met his plane at DFW last Friday. It was a wonderful and emotional scene. Afterwards, we went back to my sister Rhonda's house to visit, hug on Rusty and shower him with good wishes from a lot of good people.
Let me take a minute to tell you about a few of those well wishers. They're little people, members of Mrs. Kleck's fourth grade class from Bedford Heights Elementary in Bedford, Texas. Rusty's cousin Bradley is in that class. When he told Mrs. Kleck about Rusty coming in, she had her students prepare him a welcome home basket overflowing with letters of support. For today's southern quote feature, I decided to read you one of those letters. This one came is the combined effort of three little boys named John, Zach and Ben. I think you'll enjoy it! "Dear Rusty, How long have you been in the military? If it was over a year, I would've gone crazy. What does PFC mean? I know what KFC means, Kentucky Fried Chicken. (Try the Popcorn Chicken!) Does it mean Pennsylvania Fried Chicken? You're gonna get lots of letters from the rest of the class. Do you get free doughnuts? (John's a doughnut freak.) When you get here lots of people will bombard you with questions, bring
earplugs. Sincerely,
John, Zach and Ben P.S. The doughnut question was John's idea.
#112--From Volume II Issue 67
He was born in Houston, TX in 1958. He likes to say he has a perfect older brother and a perfect younger sister, (sounds like the middle child syndrome to me. My sister, Rhonda would love him.) Today he's a well-known comedian who weaves his own zany brand of humor with the gospel in a good-old-boy, non-threatening way that appeals to all audiences, both Christian and secular.
But Mark Lowry is also a talented singer and songwriter with a beautiful baritone voice who touches the hearts of his listeners as often as he tickles their funny bones. In 1984 the artist penned the lyrics to a song that has become a Christmas favorite. The title is, "Mary, Did You Know?" Many popular artists have recorded their versions of the song, but no one can match the depth of feeling present in the words when Mark sings it himself. In today's "Southern Quote" we hear an excerpt of the familiar questions that were born in his heart and resonate so strongly in our own. For it was Mark Lowry who first asked... "Mary did you know, your baby boy
Would someday walk on water?
Mary, did you know that your baby boy
Would save our sons and daughters?
Did you know that your baby boy
Has come to make you new?
This child that you've delivered
Will soon deliver you.
Mary, did you know that your baby boy
Is Lord of all creation?
Mary, did you know that your baby boy
Will one day rule the nations?
Did you know that your baby boy
Was Heaven's perfect Lamb?
This sleeping Child you're holding
Is the great "I AM"." ---- Mark Lowry
~Shellie
#113--From Volume II Issue 68
He was born in West Texas, the youngest of four. His parents filled their lives with family, sports and church. Had you asked him what
he wanted to be when he grew up, a football coach would've been the likeliest answer. Surely not a writer-and for a while there--
definitely not a preacher.
Today he's both. The preaching came first, the writing next-birthed from simple short stories he wrote for the church newsletter. His
writing is still simple; his accomplishments are extraordinary. Today, less than 20 years after first being published Max Lucado has authored
more than 50 books with some 28 million copies in circulation. Once you've heard the uncommon wisdom of this common man you'll understand
why his simple style has become such a phenomenon. In today's "Southern Quote", Max Lucado communicates the birth of Christ with these memorable words...
"He didn't insist on plush, royal robes or gleaming, golden scepters. He didn't come on the wings of a heavenly host, live in a celestial
palace, or march at the head of an angelic honor guard. He was the son of a carpenter in a remote section of an oppressed nation. He was
God's greatest surprise. The heart of heaven wrapped in human flesh. CURIOUS, this royal throne room. No tapestries covering the windows.
No velvet garments on the courtesans... Curious, the sounds in the court...Cows munching, hooves crunching, a mother humming, a babe
nursing. It could have begun anywhere, the story of the king. But, curiously, it began in a manger. Step into the doorway; peek through
the window. He is here!" --Excerpt taken from the writings of Max Lucado ~Shellie
#114--From Volume II Issue 69
At the risk of sounding like a tired old cliché, I can't believe another year has come and gone. But, here we have it--2004 lying ahead of us like a freshly cleaned blackboard, urging us to pick up the chalk and make our marks on our corner of the world.
Some folks are serious about New Year's Resolutions and some folks disdain the whole idea. Regardless of where you stand, there's something about the New Year that makes a person take a look at where they are and compare it to where they want to be. I hope today's southern quote can remind us all to balance that ambition for tomorrow with a healthy dose of love and gratitude for today. Our featured speaker was born in 1918 in Newport News, Virginia. Her parents nicknamed her "Dickie"--a boy's name for sure, but then Ella Mae and Joseph
never anticipated that the child might be female. You'd know Pearl Bailey for the legendary voice and charismatic presence that has captivated and entertained audiences the world over. What you might not know is the depth of her commitment to helping people in need. Fittingly enough, she signs her name, "All love, Pearl." For this consummate and accomplished performer is also a United States Goodwill Ambassador working tirelessly to support causes like child abuse prevention and family cohesiveness. In a quote that reveals the passion that fuels her life, Pearl Bailey once said, "A man without ambition is dead. A man with ambition but no love is dead. A man with ambition and love for his blessings here on earth is ever so alive. - Pearl Bailey
#115--From Volume II Issue 70
I realize it’s been a few weeks now since Saddam was captured, but what with the holidays and all, we still haven’t talked about it on the porch. Don’t fret, we’re about to fix that. In today’s “Southern Quote”, we’ll review the recent events using the colorful sayings of the south.
In other words…a southerner might say, “Saddam was all talk before the War, but as soon as the fighting started "he disappeared like a belch in a wind storm." Although everyone knew he was evil, evidence of his atrocities continued to mount as the war effort moved on, reminding the world that "meanness like that doesn’t happen overnight." The coalition troops were searching for him high and low but this dictator
was proving to be "wild as a peach orchard hog and twice as slippery." Local legend said Saddam was tougher than a one-eared alley cat. So, imagine our surprise when we found him "hiding like a scalded dog." And then there was the sight of the former Dictator crawling out of that spider hole, dirty and unshaven. I couldn’t help but think of the old saying, "Folks who get all caught up in themselves sure do make small packages." Of course, I should probably leave well enough alone and stop there, but I’ve just got to mention all the conspiracy theories that began
to float around about his capture—-speculating that Bush had captured Saddam a while back, but was just now trotting him out for the poll numbers. Please, I’ve a southern saying for that one, too. "Some people never miss a good chance to shut up."
#116--From Volume II Issue 71
He was born in Hanover County, Virginia, in 1777 and became the epitome of the self-made man. After enjoying only a few short years of formal education, he read voraciously and trained himself in the art of public speaking by honing his craft in the field and barn with horse and ox for audience. Later, during his long years in the public arena his contemporaries from both sides of the aisle would declare his voice to be a fine musical instrument.
Henry Clay’s political life was characterized by extreme controversy. To his enemies he was a pretender; to his supporters he was a sage. Denied his life-long dream to become president, he was forced to settle instead with the distinction of serving as Speaker of the House for longer than any contemporaries in his century. Although they were spoken some two hundred years ago, I believe today’s “Southern Quote” by Henry Clay speaks eloquently to us even now. For while it is true that our problems must be identified to be corrected. And it is equally true that one can raise a voice of dissent and still be a patriot-—it is hard to understand why some among us seem to align themselves with our enemies in denouncing this great land, while simultaneously enjoying her freedoms and her privileges. To that end, I offer you the words of Henry Clay, who once said, “There is nothing wrong with America that can’t be cured by what is right with America." —Henry Clay ~Shellie
#117--From Volume II Issue 73
He was born in Kentucky in 1876. He enjoyed his early education and dreamed of studying law. However, at the tender age of sixteen the young boy’s plans fell apart at the death of his grandfather. Forced to shoulder responsibility that should’ve belonged to his alcoholic father, young Irvin S. Cobb quit school to work and support his family.
As fate would have it, this early trauma jumpstarted Cobb’s future writing career. His affair with words began with his first job as a reporter for the Paducah Evening Times and by the age of nineteen he was the youngest News Managing editor in the country. Heady with success, an eager Irvin Cobb left his beloved Kentucky and moved to New York with his wife and a $200 loan from his father-in-law. The big city was slower to warm to Cobb’s genius.
After weeks of begging for work, Mr. Cobb penned and mailed identical letters to thirteen different New York newspapers explaining how tired he was of sitting in their lobbies waiting to be seen. As a result of his unique way with words, Irvin Cobb was able to choose from five job offers—and the rest is history. Cobb’s ability to turn the everyday into the extraordinary by focusing on the personalities of those involved led to his recognition as a fine southern humorist in the tradition of Mark Twain. Today’s Southern Quote by this late humorist is a fitting definition of the trade he so skillfully mastered. It reads…P>“A good storyteller is a person with a good memory who hopes other people haven't.” ~Shellie
#118--From Volume II Issue 74
This young man with the girl’s name never really looked like a football player. He didn’t have a great arm or a quick release, neither of which stopped him from building a reputation as a scrambling and instinctive playmaker. He first gained national attention at the University of Georgia where he led the Bulldogs to the SEC championship—that’s after he took matters into his own hands. It was fourth and goal, do or die, with 30 seconds left when Francis Asbury Tarkenton shook off the play his coach sent in, knelt in the grass beneath his offensive unit, diagrammed and then calmly executed the play that won the game.
Fran Tarkenton became one of the most prolific passers in NFL history. He also became known as much for what he didn’t accomplish as for what he did. Despite a reputation for finding a way to win, Fran Tarkenton
led his Vikings to the Super Bowl three times during the seventies and came up short each time. Some people would say Fran Tarkenton’s failure to win the big game branded him as an also-ran. But today’s southern quote by this famous athlete explains why he was able to accept his place in the history books and thrive in the business world beyond the game of football. For Fran once said... "Success, in my view, is the willingness to strive for something you really want. The person not reaching the top is no less a success than the one who achieved it, if they both sweated blood, sweat and tears and overcame obstacles and fears. The failure to be perfect does not mean you're not a success." --Fran Tarkenton
#119--From Volume II Issue 75
We’ve been listening to a lot of our famous southerners lately, so today we’re gonna take a look at the one of our more common sayings. We southerners know that when someone begins anything by saying, “I’ll tell you how the cow ate the cabbage”, this person is fixin’ to tell us like it is. We also know that chances are, we’re not gonna like what we hear. But do you know where the phrase came from? Neither did I, until I began to research its origin.
Now, I’ve heard this familiar story before, but never as an explanation
for this expression. All I can say is, if it’s not true, it should be—-and in the tradition of southern storytellers, that’s enough for me. Once upon a time, a circus came to a small rural town. While they were putting up the big top, a baby elephant escaped and found his way to a little old lady’s garden up the road. The lady in our story couldn’t see very well, but she was alarmed enough to call the police and report a cow in her cabbage patch pulling up her cabbages with his tail. The policeman on the other end of the line
listened patiently, “A cow is eating your cabbage, ma’am? We’ll send someone right out." “I never said he was eating ‘em,” the lady said. “No?” The policeman replied. “Then what is he doing?” The woman hesitated and then exclaimed. “You wouldn’t believe me if I told you!” So, there you have it porchers, now you know why telling someone how the cow eats the cabbage can precede a very serious discussion. ~Shellie
#120--From Volume II Issue 76
He was born in Waco, Texas in 1937. For fifty years he supported himself in turns by being a cowboy, an artist, a folksinger, and an IBM salesman. He insists that he never dreamed on becoming a writer. And then, while serving as a Unitarian minister, he wrote a little newspaper essay that began to acquire a life of its own, finding it’s way from copier to copier and refrigerator to refrigerator. Then a little girl in kindergarten brought it home in her backpack. She had gotten it from her teacher who got the piece from her niece who was a librarian, who had gotten it from the "Kansas City Bugle." (Sounds a little like one of those childhood rhymes.)As it happens the child’s mother was a literary agent in New York City. She immediately contacted Robert Fulghum to see if there was more from where the essay “All I Really Need to Know I learned in Kindergarten” came from. Clearly, there was more to spare. Since then Robert Fulghum’s books have sold more than fifteen million copies in twenty-seven languages in ninety-three countries.
These days Robert Fulghum divides his time between being an essayist and artist, resisting the often bestowed title of America’s greatest philosopher, and playing guitar and mando-cello in a band with comedian Dave Barry. For this week’s “Southern Quote” and in tribute to Valentine’s Day, the author of “From Beginning to End--The Rituals of Our Lives" offers us his definition of love. For Robert Fulghum once said, “When we find someone whose weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall into mutually satisfying weirdness--and call it love--true love.” --Robert Fulghum
#121--From Volume II Issue 77
e was born in poverty in Sledge, Mississippi. While his baseball skills offered him the first opportunity of a better future, it was his smooth singing voice that made him a household name.
A true anomaly, he found country music success and earned himself a permanent place in music history, during the bitter years of the Civil Right’s struggle, eventually winning three Grammy’s and selling more than thirty million records in the United States alone. And he accomplished all of this despite having what he
used to refer to as “a permanent tan” in order to break the ice before launching into his opening act. In his autobiography, Charley Pride remembers when, as a child, he found a magazine photo of a fabulous blue car. The awed little boy told his beloved mother that if he had a million dollars he would buy her that car. Charley Pride says his mother stopped washing dishes, dried her hands and sat down with him. “You’re right,” she said. “You could buy that car if you had a million dollars. That’s a lot of money. But I’ll tell you something. There are people who’d give up a whole bunch of millions for what you’ve got.” The child’s eyes widened. What could he have that was worth a million dollars? And then his mother asked him to hold out his
hand. “See,” she said. “You’ve got five fingers on both hands, both eyes and both legs. Some people don’t have those things.” In today’s southern quote, we hear the echo of lessons learned years ago in the Mississippi Delta. For Charley Pride says... “Even now, when I’m asked how I’m doing, I like to reply, 'Pretty good. I’ve got all my fingers and both eyes!'” --Charley Pride
#122--From Volume II Issue 78
If country songs are based on hard times, this artist has plenty material to draw from. His childhood was spent shuttling between the home of a troubled mother and a host of foster families. When he was nine his mom remarried, giving him an abusive stepfather who used their food stamps to buy drugs. Three years later, his mom was in prison and the boy was mixing marijuana seeds with dried tomato leaves, rolling them up and selling the fake joints to unsuspecting customers.
He has known physical abuse and the trauma of having his stepfather hold a loaded gun next to the boy’s temple. He has seen the same man stab his mother and shoot and paralyze her sister. He was living on the streets at fifteen when he wandered by the home of Russell and Beatrice Costner looking for work. The strangers offered him room and board instead, asking only that he cut his hair and attend their church. Shortly afterwards, Russell Costner died and Beatrice and the young man formed a family of two. He credits her with turning on the lights in his dark, dark world. After stints in hard rock and hip hop, Jimmy Wayne found his home in country music explaining that he wanted to tell his stories and he couldn’t do it screaming with a heavy metal band. The author of “I Love You This Much” has since sung on the “Grand Ole Opry” and opened for Charlie Daniels. In today’s “Southern Quote” this North Carolina native pays credit to Beatrice Costner. When asked how he has managed to come so far, Jimmy Wayne says… “It’s the power of one. Right now, right here, I’m living proof that it takes only one person to make a difference.” --Jimmy Wayne~Shellie
#123--From Volume II Issue 79
I learned something new this week. I knew America had a weight problem, but I finally found out where the fault lies. Silly me, I would’ve said it was lack of will power or our fascination with the tube or something. But then I’m simple minded. Thank goodness the brilliant minds working on this problem have discovered the real villain. Are you ready? It’s my husband’s fault,(sorry honey). Don’t laugh. If you own or operate a family farm, you’re a villain, too. To sum up the report, the American farmer produces too much food. Aided and encouraged by the evil government and their subsidies, the farmer makes it easy for the food industry to serve larger portions without affecting their bottom line.
You’d think the farmers would be crying fowl about this report, (if their rogue ways were defensible), but no--they’re all busy trying to secure a crop loan. They’re preoccupied trying to show the bank how they’re gonna repay their debts when the prices they get for their commodities stay the same or fall while the price of seed, parts and fuel and everything else they use to produce a crop continues to inflate. Making that work on paper can make the most serious fellow look like a comedian. Some of them won’t get that loan before it’s time to get their crops planted and they’ll go the way of so many other family farms that have bit the dust in recent years. But, hey, there’s a silver lining here. America will lose weight, right? Just call it the starvation diet; it could be the next big craze. Today’s southern quote from Dwight D. Eisenhower reads. “Farming looks mighty easy when your plow is a pencil, and you're a thousand miles from the corn field."--Dwight D. Eisenhower ~Shellie
#124--From Volume II Issue 80
Louis Marshall Jones was born in 1913, the youngest of ten children in a sharecropping family in Henderson, Kentucky. During his teenage years later his older brother bought the musically inclined boy a guitar for seventy-five cents. Louis worked it over good, playing at all the local dances and parties.
By the age of 18 he was performing a regular radio gig on an Akron, Ohio station as the young singer of the old songs. It was there that Bradley Kincaid nicknamed him Grandpa, ribbing Louis for his grumpy attitude during early morning broadcast. Louis liked the moniker and Grandpa Jones was born complete with knee high boots, a false mustache, fake white eyebrows and penciled in wrinkles. Over the next few years, Grandpa Jones mastered the banjo and honed
his comedic skills. He enjoyed numerous hit singles including a top ten remake of a Jimmie Rodgers tune, “T for Texas.” But it was his stint on the country music comedy show “Hee Haw” that earned him the title, “everyone’s favorite grandpa.” The banjo picker with the down home country humor cooked up many a mean country meal in response to the weekly question, “Hey Grandpa, what’s for supper?” When Grandpa died in 1998 he was still using the boots Bradley Kincaid gave him sixty years before but the fake mustache and eyebrows had long given way to the real thing. Today’s southern quote comes from the late Grandpa Jones who once said...
“When you leave this earth for a better home someday, the only thing you take is what you gave away." --Grandpa Jones~Shellie
#125--From Volume II Issue 81
It was 1982 and the 29 year-old basketball coach from the University of Tennessee, with only seven years coaching experience under her belt, was getting the first taste of the big time at the Women’s Final Four. Her opposing coach, Sonja Hogg and the talented ladies from Louisiana Tech University in Ruston, Louisiana took the floor with authority and commanded the game, posting a 69-46 win that left a sour taste in the young coach’s mouth and a burr under her saddle. She’d be back. Boy, would she ever be back!
Two years later Pat Summitt returned to the Final Four with her Lady Vols and over the course of the last twenty something years this daughter of a dairy farmer from Henrietta, Tennessee has returned again and again, no less than twelve more times and collecting six national championships in the process. Will she be back this year? Most people would say the chances are good, but then, that’s because Pat Summitt doesn’t believe in chances—she develops her own opportunities through hard work and determination. An intense and focused competitor, Pat Summitt has no problem demanding the very best from her players because she asks no less from herself. Listen to today’s Southern Quote and hear the heart of the legendary coach behind the Tennessee Lady Volunteers. For Pat Summitt likes to say, “When you ask yourself, ‘do I deserve to succeed?’ make sure the answer is yes."-- Pat Summitt~Shellie
#126--From Volume II Issue 82
He was born in 1807, the fourth child of proud Virginians, Henry and Ann Lee. He became General Robert E. Lee, the highest ranking officer in the Confederate Army. Volumes have been written about his battlefield exploits and his instinctive military genius pared with an unwavering attention to detail. He continues to be revered for his devotion to duty, his personal courage and his caring concern for the men he led into battle. Robert E. Lee didn’t send his men to war, he led them and on the fateful day when resistance was no longer feasible, he surrendered his forces at Appomattox in 1865, effectively ending the War Between the States.
Robert E. Lee returned to Richmond after the war as a parolee, stripped of his civil rights and yet, he continued to set an exemplary example for his southern neighbors, devoting the rest of his life to
promoting peace and harmony among all of his fellow countrymen. And yet it is for reasons beyond his fame as a great southern general that prompt us to listen to the words of Robert E. Lee today. I'd like to honor the great gentleman for what is not recorded as much as for what is. In a day and time when just a few fleeting moments of fame is enough for far too many of our countrymen to sell their souls and trade on their neighbors’ tragedies, I hold up this refreshing quote from our most famous southerner. For it was Robert E. Lee who when asked about penning an autobiography once replied with dignity, “I’ll never write my memoirs. I would be trading on the blood of my men.” – Robert E. Lee ~Shellie
#127--From Volume II Issue 83
Irene Noblette was born in El Paso, Texas in 1902, a natural entertainer in search of a stage. Her mother was skeptical of the whole show business idea. Fortunately, a family friend pled the child’s case, insisting that the little girl had talent that shouldn’t be wasted. Irene Noblette’s singing debut at the tender age of ten was a local hit and gave birth to a career that spanned the next sixty-nine years.
Irene Ryan, as she came to be known, first made her mark in vaudeville, before piling up a stack of film credits. And then she hit her fifties and the opportunities slowed and almost stopped. By her own admission she was virtually washed up as an actress when she found fame in the unlikeliest place. The small actress with the frail build and recognizable whine always looked older than her years. Ironically, these characteristics that had once plagued her career became an asset the day she read for the role that would earn her a place in entertainment history. Americans loved Irene Ryan as Granny, the wiry and feisty matriarch at the head of that lovable and gullible family of mountaineers who struck oil, amassed a fortune, moved to California and became the Beverly Hillbillies. While Jed Clampett held to a strict honor code, Granny’s motto seemed to be, “don’t get mad; get even.” In today’s southern quote we hear the unmistakable country wisdom of Granny Clampett as played by the late Irene Ryan… Granny: "Remember what William Jennings Bryan said, "fight hard but fight clean!"
Jethro: "But you ain't fightin' clean Granny!"
Granny: "Course I ain't, William Jennings Bryan was a loser!" ~Shellie
*Click here to hear a Wav file of Granny's quote:
#128--From Volume II Issue 84
When he was three years old the small boy from Tampa, Florida survived a battle with malaria, but not without paying a cost for his victory. He was left with a permanent and embarrassing speech problem…he stuttered, he stuttered a lot. During his school years his family’s search for a cure to his stuttering turned up various treatments, all failed.
After high school and during a brief stint in the Air Force, Mel performed with a local singing group called the “Westerners”. Later, he spent a little time at the University of Florida before dropping out to work as a strawberry picker and a truck-driver. All the while, Mel harbored a delicious discovery from those earlier performances. His ever present stutter disappeared when he sang. And then in 1956, Webb Pierce recorded a hit song written by Mel entitled “I’m Tired”. Mel Tillis had found a way out of the strawberry patch. Mel Tillis has since been honored with Music City News Comedian of the year award six straight years, inducted into Nashville’s Songwriters’ International Hall of fame and chosen as CMA’s Entertainer of the Year. And the stutter he once strove so hard to overcome? He learned a long time ago how to incorporate it into his act and use it for his advantage. Listen to today’s southern quote and hear how the legendary performer prefers to open his shows. For Mel Tillis sometimes says, "I'm here to d-d-dispel those rumors going round that M-M-Mel Tillis has quit stuttering. That's not true I'm still st-st-stuttering and making a pretty good living at it too." —Mel Tillis
#129--From Volume II Issue 85
He was born in Texas in 1926. He grew up on a cotton farm about 35 miles east of Dallas, the son of a Texas lawman and Justice of the Peace who taught him the basics of music. He started singing in high school with a band called “Billy Boyd’s Cowboy Ramblers”. But before the year was out Uncle Sam cut the young musician’s gig short, sending him to Japan during WWII. While there, Charlie Walker introduced the Japanese to his loved country music as a broadcaster on the Armed Forces Radio Network in Tokyo.
Once his tour of duty was completed, Mr. Walker returned to the states, took a job in San Antonio and continued his career in broadcasting. Long before he was a star, he was
named one of the top ten disc jockeys in the country. Mr. Walker became a member of the Grand Ole Opry in 1967 where he still performs on occasion, recognized as a traditional country entertainer with a special connection to the common man. With song titles like, “Tell Her Lies and Feed Her Candy”, and “Pick Me Up on Your Way Down” it’s easy to see why they say it’s hard to forget a Charlie Walker song. For today’s southern quote I offer you the following lyric from Charlie Walker, the man who penned the line: “I wouldn’t take her to a dog fight, even if I thought she could win.” – Charlie Walker ~Shellie
#130--From Volume II Issue 86
Just the other day the thought occurred to me that it’s been quite some time since we’ve forgone a quote from one of our more celebrated southerners to listen to the colorful expressions of the average fella. That’s not good.
There’s a ton of non-southerners rockin’ with us here on the porch and their numbers are growin’ all the time. While I dearly love to hear from my geographically challenged friends, I’m constantly reminded that they don’t have enough good, colorful word pictures to help ‘em share their stories. I think we have a certain obligation to help ‘em with their speech habits, don’t you? I knew you’d see it my way. The first point that must be made is that our speech patterns aren’t derived from a lack of education, regardless of what southern stereotypes you get from the media. On the contrary,
southerners understand that language is more than communication. The way we see it, why exchange facts when you can entertain? For instance, a person from another area of the country might see someone lacking in motivation and say, “That boy is lazy.” That’s clear enough. A southerner on the other hand, would tend to dress up an observation like that, maybe even throwing in a subtle reference to the boy’s parenting. Here’s the same line juiced up southern style, “That Walker boy was born tired and raised lazy.” -- Southern Saying
#131-From Volume II Issue 86
This child of the Carolinas was the original over achiever. His father died before he was born. As a child he lost his mother and brothers. On his own in the world by the age of fourteen, the teenager charted his own course and stuck to it. Over the years he grew into a tall and strong young man with sandy-colored hair and flaming blue eyes whose integrity of character matched his imposing physical characteristics.
His overwhelming defeat of the British at the Battle of New Orleans made him a national hero. As fearless and aggressive in the political arena as he was in battle “Old Hickory”, as he was known by his fellow soldiers, served the state of Tennessee as a representative
to Congress, a senator and a state Supreme Court judge before becoming the seventh President of the United States of America. And he did it all despite a rugged start in life and a sporadic education, disadvantages that would’ve hamstrung a lesser man. History records just the opposite for today’s speaker who is credited with lifting the young republic by the bootstraps and earning her the respect of the world. In today’s Southern Quote one can hear the common sense and wry humor that served him in good stead. For Andrew Jackson once said, “It is a poor mind indeed which can't think of at least two ways to spell any word.” --Andrew Jackson~Shellie
#132-From Volume II Issue 87
He was born on May 12, 1925 in St. Louis, Missouri and christened Lawrence Peter Berra. A few years later a childhood friend commented that Lawrence bore a striking resemblance to an Indian snake charmer they’d seen perform. The Hindu man was named Yogi. The nickname stuck.
Yogi Berra became a legendary baseball player with the New York Yankees; some claim the best catcher ever. He appeared in 14 World Series and won ten championships. He was a 15 time All–Star and a three time league MVP. He caught Don Larsen’s perfect game in the 1956 Series and was elected into the United States Baseball Hall of Fame. And somewhere, along the way, the athlete with the eighth grade education became a different type of philosopher, as famous for his humorous observations and fractured quotes as he was for his remarkable glove. Some of Yogi’s lines have a reasonable explanation. He did say, “When you come to a fork in the road, take it.” But he was giving someone directions to his home and as both roads led to his house; it was a perfectly reasonable statement. Regardless, even Yogi has resigned himself to the way his comments tend to take on a life of their own. Maybe that’s why he once remarked, “I really didn’t say everything I said.” In today’s southern quote, we close with a deliciously confusing Yogism on social obligations. For it was Yogi Berra who once said, “You should always go to other people’s funerals because if you don’t, they won’t come to yours.” -– Yogi Berra
#133-From Volume II Issue 88
He was born into slavery on the Diamond Grove, Missouri farm of Moses Carver. Shortly afterwards he and his mother were kidnapped by slave raiders. Although the baby was subsequently returned to the farm, the infant’s mother was never seen again. Moses and Susan Carver took the baby and his brother and reared them as their own.In later years George Washington Carver spoke tenderly of the support and love given to him by his adoptive parents.
A frail and sickly child, George Washington Carver was excused from the hard labor of the farm. He spent his free time wandering alone and collecting all sorts of rocks and plants. He called them his “treasures” and kept them the rest of his life. That early fascination with nature led him into the study of botany and horticulture and saw him become one of our nation’s greatest scientists. While George Washington Carver invented close to five hundred useful products from the South’s native plants, his most notable invention was a system of crop rotation that rescued the South’s depleted soil and helped the region recover from the devastation of the war. Today’s southern quote speaks to the caliber of a man who had little interest in fame or wealth, preferring to give the majority of his discoveries to mankind rather than patenting them or profiting from their production. For George Washington Carver once said, “How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving, and tolerant of the weak and the strong, because someday you will have been all of these. – George Washington Carver ~Shellie
#134-From Volume II Issue 89
He was born Harold Lloyd Jenkins in Friars Point, Mississippi in 1933. When he was six years old the little white boy learned to play the guitar at the knee of an old black man living next door to his family. Harold Lloyd practiced singing and picking in the pilot’s house of the riverboat his dad piloted. In later years he recalled those early memories of growing up on the Mississippi River and likened them to a Huckleberry Finn type of childhood.
By the age of ten Harold put together his first band, “The Phillips County Ramblers”; by twelve he had moved with his family to Helena Arkansas where he had his own radio show every Saturday morning. As much as he enjoyed music, Harold's greatest passion was reserved for baseball. Although he was recruited by the Philadelphia Phillies, Uncle Sam drafted him into service during the Korean War before he could sign. Once released from duty, Harold signed a recording contract instead with Mercury Records. His first big hit was a teenage ballad called “It’s Only Make Believe.” Around that time, his agent convinced him that he needed a name change and a map of the South was consulted for inspiration. Conway, Arkansas and Twitty, Texas stood out—which is why you know the legendary crooner with the signature growl best as Conway Twitty. During a career than spanned four decades Conway Twitty became one of the most popular country singers of all time. He still holds the distinction of having more number one records than anyone in the history of American popular music, Conway Twitty—not the Beatles, nor Elvis nor Sinatra. About his professional singing career the late great Conway Twitty once said, “I never had a dream, I simply lived it.” ~Shellie
#135-From Volume II Issue 90
He was born in Murfreesboro, Tennessee in 1880. After graduating from Vanderbilt University with a double major in Greek and Latin, he took the work ethic learned from twelve hour days in the fields and applied it to his chosen career. In time the Tennessee farm boy became a first rate-reporter, columnist, poet, magazine writer, author, and film producer.
Along the way, Grantland Rice became the first superstar sportscaster. “Granny” as Mr. Rice was known to many, penned some 67,000,000 words. He was a pioneer and craftsman in his field, elevating his profession by his own deeply held philosophy that sports and sportsmanship, at its best, could elevate not only individuals but entire societies. While many journalists wrote pessimistic pieces, eager to debunk the heroes of the day, Mr. Rice was credited with developing a style of writing dubbed “gee whiz” journalism
for his preference to gloss over the athletes’ personal problems while celebrating their individual physical gifts and the overall idea of sports as a noble activity. At his death in 1954, Mr. Rice was still churning out his widely read column, “The Sportlight” for 88 newspapers. Offering sports news and commentary and peppered with his own poetry and prose, the observations of Grantland Rice set a standard for sports journalism that will stand the test of time. In today’s southern quote we look at a famous quote pulled from one of his poems. For it was Grantland Rice who penned the words, “When the One Great Scorer comes to write against your name, He marks not that you won or lost, but how you played the game.” – Grantland Rice ~Shellie
#136-From Volume II Issue 91
This direct descendant of legendary pioneer Daniel Boone was born Callie Russell Porter in Indian Creek, Texas. It was the year 1890. Her family with their strong Kentucky and Virginia roots was rich in land but otherwise destitute from a combination of bad business decisions and the economic hardships that followed the War Between the States. While Callie always felt herself shaped by the emotional history of the southerners’ defeat, it would be years before she would offer the timeless quote, “I am the grandchild of a lost War.”
After Callie’s mother died when she was two, the little girl’s father moved Callie and his other four children to his mother’s home in Kyle, Texas. Perhaps it was the genes of her famous ancestor that fueled this southerner’s nomadic life. Callie left home at sixteen and pursued a singing and movie career before a bout with tuberculosis in her mid-twenties grounded the ambitious young woman long enough for her to develop a fascination with
the written word. Adopting and writing under the name of the grandmother who helped raise her, Katherine Anne Porter enjoyed a long and productive career. She was widely recognized as the master of the twentieth-century short story long before the success of her best-selling novel "Ship of Fools", an honor she enjoyed at seventy-two years young. In today’s southern quote Katherine Anne Porter encourages the independent thinking for which she was well known. For it was Mrs. Porter who said, “Never take advice, including this.” ~Shellie
#137-From Volume II Issue 92
He was born July 18, 1954. His dad enjoyed playing the guitar and singing with his mother to their favorite gospel tunes. It must’ve seemed natural when their three year old joined them to sing in church. Two years later his father gave him a mandolin. Within two weeks the five year old had taught himself to play it. He began singing and playing in churches, socials, and fairs all around their hometown in Eastern Kentucky. Maybe that wasn’t so natural, but it was a fitting sign for the phenomenal music career their son would one day enjoy.
Around that time bluegrass giant Bill Munroe came to perform nearby. During his routine the audience began to call out for him to let “Hobert and Dorothy’s boy” play. Bill Munroe obliged, saying “Get up here, wherever you are, Ricky. The folks want to hear you play.” Jumping from his daddy’s lap, six year old Ricky Skaggs ran to the Opry star and reached up to be pulled onstage. The crowd responded to his rendition of “Ruby”, picked on Bill Munroe’s own mandolin with his first standing ovation. Less than a decade ago grown-up Ricky Skaggs was a very successful country music star with bluegrass pulsing in his veins. And then he lost his father, and his hero, Bill Munroe and realized he could no longer resist his roots. Ricky Skaggs, the visionary, not only returned to bluegrass, he took it to a wider audience, creating the next generation of fans sold on his innovative style, modern country with a traditional old time feel. In today’s southern quote, Ricky Skaggs says, “I’ve always looked upon playing an instrument as it being another voice. It’s a God-given gift I can speak with—and never say a word.” ~Shellie
#138-From Volume II Issue 93
He was into a Virginia farming family, the oldest of ten children. His parents were eloquent and thoughtful people who passed these qualities on to their offspring. By the age of twelve, Patrick could repeat the preacher’s sermons word for word—if the idea moved him. And that was his parents’ biggest worry; nothing seemed to move the lighthearted child. They worried endlessly about his lack of ambition. He didn’t want to farm, but neither did book study appeal to him.
Several years later, after a failed attempt at storekeeping, and faced with the reality that he’d have to have some sort of vocation to support himself, it occurred to the young man that he did like to talk and lawyers sure did do a lot of talking. Patrick Henry had found his calling. Several years later, at the tender age of 29 he stood before the Virginian assembly. Fortunately, his youth didn’t restrain his convictions as he proposed a resolution stating that Virginians could only be taxed on
issues they could vote on. When the older men quailed and accused him of treason for even suggesting that they thwart England’s tax collections, Patrick replied, “If this be treason, make the most of it.” Minutes later Patrick Henry, the easy-going child who had matured into a fiery Patriot, uttered an immortal creed credited with giving birth to the American Revolution. With July the Fourth on the horizon, and Americans everywhere gearing up to celebrate the birth of our great nation, it is most appropriate that we visit those famous words in today’s southern quote. For it was Patrick Henry who said, “I know not what course others may take, but as for me, give me liberty or give me death.” ~Shellie
#139-From Volume II Issue 94
He grew up poor and hungry in Houston, Texas. One of seven siblings, he’s often said his earliest brawls revolved around the dinner table. By the age of fifteen he was an accomplished street brawler when he happened to see a commercial about the JOB CORPS. It was targeted towards high school dropouts and offered them an education and a second chance. The burly young man took the opportunity and made the most of it.
It was at the Job Corps that George Foreman discovered his talented fists held promise of the kind of life young boys in the projects could only dream of; he left the alleys behind for the gym. After a successful amateur boxing career and an Olympic Gold medal, George Foreman turned pro and continued his winning ways. In January 1973 he knocked out the reigning heavyweight champ, Joe Frazier, and became the world champion—the first time.
Twenty one years later, at the age of 45, and after a ten year retirement “Big George” announced his comeback. When the critics weren’t taking swipes at him, they were laughing. Ignoring them all “Big George”, who had since become a licensed minister and a successful businessman, defeated Michael Moore to regain the title and become the oldest world heavyweight champion ever. These days the ex-boxer, preacher, rancher and family man also pushes the “George Foreman Grill”, one of the hottest selling home products ever. And in today’s southern quote, he displays the sense of humor that has endeared him to so many. For when asked why he named all five of his sons George, the big man once said, “If you gonna be a good boxer, you gotta make preparation for memory loss.” --George Foreman
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