Andy Griffith and Mayberry RFD were two of my favorite TV shows of all-time. Even lately, I have led a small group bible study using old episodes of Andy Griffith as the basis. Good stuff with a good set of values. So it is with that in mind that I share "7 Things I've Learned From Andy Griffith."
source: http://www.markmerrill.com/7-things-i-learned-from-andy-griffith/
- Andy listened. He wasn’t one to lecture his son, Opie, or his friends. Instead, he helped them get to the right answer by asking questions, telling a brief story, and then just listening to them.
- Andy spent time. He spent one-on-one time with his son, Opie. It wasn’t a big planned event or activity; they just did the ordinary things in life together. Opie was often seen in the Sheriff’s office while Andy was working. Andy was often seen carrying a pole and taking his son out fishing.
- Andy treated people respectfully. As goofy and quirky as Barney, Floyd the barber, and Goober the mechanic were, he always treated them as equals and with respect. He even treated the town drunk, Otis, respectfully. And he never seemed to expect their respect in return, but he did earn it.
- Andy took time to relax. Sometimes, Andy just sat on his front porch after dinner and gazed at the stars and reflected about life. Andy and the people of Mayberry also stopped work on Sunday to go to church, rest, sing, and make room for their neighbors at the supper table.
- Andy was humble. Underneath that country, aw-shucks demeanor was a very wise man. And even though he may have been smarter than everyone else, he was never condescending or critical. Rather, he had a servant’s heart and always did what was best for others.
- Andy was patient and kind. Andy could have easily lost his patience with emotionally-charged, Barney Fife. But he always kept his cool. And you never heard an unkind word uttered from Andy’s mouth. He was always building others up with his words.
- Andy treated women with the utmost respect. Whether it was his Aunt Bee or girlfriend, Helen Crump, he always honored and respected the women in his life. He also had great manners. He opened their door, pulled out their chair at the table, and walked on the street side of the sidewalk. (I don't expect you to open doors - but I hope that you look for this quality in the men you allow in your life.)
I love you,
Daddy
