Our catch phrase is on its way.
Dear Fellow Earthlings,
Today I dedicate this blog to my Uncle Charles Kay Walker (or “Uncle Charlie”). Charlie died in an automobile crash in 1962 (See installments 123 and 160.). He would have turned 75 years of age today. The reason why I think so highly of Charlie is how, in an instant, he changed from someone who bullied me to someone who supported and admired me.
It seems the men of the Walker family back around the year 1900 had a custom of older male family members bullying the younger ones. My father John Walker was constantly bullying Charlie, some 14 years his junior. And as I was growing up, Charlie, 9 years older than I, began bullying ME. He was so muscular and lean that just one flick of his wrist could send me sprawling.
I was just no match for him, physically.
One day when I was about 9 years old, Charlie struck me for some reason I cannot remember. I “turned on my intellect” and just asked him point blank:
“Charlie, why do you torment me so? Your arms are like clubs and your fists like hammers. Look at my skinny, bony little arms. Why do you get such pleasure out of bullying me? Please tell me!”
Charlie’s expression softened and he said, “I used to admire your dad. He was my hero. But all he ever does is berate me and try to keep me from reaching my potential. I guess I was just taking it out on you – and even threatening to beat you more if you told your dad how I bother you. But now I realize I have been wrong. Steve, please give me another chance!"
I did just that: I gave Charlie a second chance. His and my relationship became one of mutual respect. Also, we encouraged each other at every opportunity. Charlie would often praise me for being a good student and a “nice boy” – and never again did he ever lay a hand on me except to give me an occasional pat on the shoulder.
His big smile, with those fantastic dimples! And he had a heart and soul to match.
Happy birthday, Charlie! Part of the reason I keep doing my best is YOU!
Steve Walker, Earthsaver and Jingles Creator
© 2013 Steve Walker, The Jingles-The Japan Foundation for English Pronunciation, Summit Enterprises.