"The Andy Griffith Show"

A television icon died a couple of days ago, on July 3, 2012. His name is Andy Griffith.

 My favorite television show of all time is, 'The Andy Griffith Show.'  This show is a classic example of small-town American life in the 1960's.  It's a TV show that never goes out of style in my book.  People today can still find the humor in this little treasure, no matter how old they happen to be.  I never tire of watching these old re-runs filmed in black and white.  They still make me smile and still warm my heart, leaving me with a moral message to consider at the end of each episode. 

 How many modern television programs today give underlying lessons on how to behave charitably and selflessly towards others, lifting the needs of others above our own?   How many teach that standing for what is right (even if it means getting into a bit of trouble yourself) is worth far more than compromise and/or avoiding persecution?   How about teachng the importance of following-through with a promise even if it meant missing out on something else you had wanted to do because good character meant your word was your bond and your word was more important than temporal pleasure?  Business deals and agreements could be made with handshakes alone because good character was something to be esteemed and treasured, never to be lost or compromised through carelessness or deceit.

The list of moral messages from this old black and white comedy goes on indefinitely.  To me these messages still have worth in our society today.  I pray the values from this classic piece of American culture will never go out of style or become extinct.  God help us if they do.

Ah, yes, 'The Andy Griffith Show' was a small, but enchanting part of my childhood growing up.  It was yet another influence of many from my past that had helped to strengthen and to shape my young character...a tiny piece of the whole of who I have become.   Thank you for your legacy, Andy Griffith.  May you find rest and peace in your new heavenly home.