Vinson’s Variety: My thanks must go to mom
Several weeks back, via the American Profile insert that appears with the Sunday edition of the Southern Standard, I entered a contest titled, “American Original,” and that original had to be a female. To the best of my knowledge, I didn’t win, so I thought I would share my entry with you.
One and Only Mother (An Ode to Mom)
Simple: If it wasn’t for mother, I wouldn’t be here, today. Not only was she responsible for my birth, she was instrumental in my development, providing me with food, drink, lodging, safety, and guidance. Admittedly, though, there have been times when I didn’t heed her advice, and, believe me, I paid dearly!
One time at the lake, she warned me to not venture out too far into the water. However, being adventurous, I wandered out too far, anyway, and stepped off into water above my head, immediately becoming submerged, crying out for “Help!”
Before my high-decibel screams caught anyone’s attention, though, I, while thrashing around, managed to step onto a ledge and raise my head above the water, allowing me to resume breathing freely. Of course, I didn’t mention the incident to mother; however, she knew.
That same day at the lake, she kept warning me about putting on my shirt, that I was getting too much sun, and I would sunburn. Phooey, I thought, she doesn’t know what she’s talking about. I wish she would just hush up. I came to the lake to have fun, get a good tan, to look good, and that’s exactly what I plan to do.
So, I remained shirtless throughout the day, and the heat of the June sun felt oh-so-good beaming down on my bare legs and upper torso. I just relaxed and soaked up the rays – boy, did I ever!
After about eight hours of 90 degree, plus, temperature and sun, the portions of my body that had been exposed began to turn a suspicious pink, and, also, began to sting horribly! I ended up going to the doctor and being treated for second-degree burns.
Granted, mother had repeatedly warned me about the dangers of too much sun, but after she saw I was going to completely ignore her warnings, she opted to silently sit back and observe the evolution of someone with still a lot to learn.
Since that somewhat disastrous day, mother and I have become much closer. What I mean by that is this: More so than any increase in emotional bonding, I listen to what she has to say, at least with a keener ear than I once did: Mike, you need to watch what your blood pressure ? Mike, you need to be more selective with your time ? Mike, I’m always watching over you.
From whence I came I am, shall remain, and, thus, will end. I’m very proud to be a direct product of good ole, everyday Mother Earth, indeed, the mother of all children.
She gets my vote for an “American Original.” Always listen to her; she’ll never steer you wrong. For me, that’s about as original and worthy of mention as it gets.
And mom, thanks for the advice.
(Mike Vinson is a Warren County columnist. His e-mail is [email protected].)