Andy Griffith has been a long-time hero of mine. We didn’t have cable television when I was growing up, so reruns of Little House on the Prairie and The Andy Griffith Show are the art I was raised on. But beyond American icon, Andy Griffith won my respect as a person. Perhaps because he exuded sincerity every time you heard the man–not just the actor–speak or sing. As a rule, I try to avoid learning about the lives of artists because so often it ends in disappointment. Rarely are famous people decent people. Elitism and artistic snobbery is not just a modern problem–it existed in some of Andy’s contemporaries, as well. But not in Andy himself. While he was not perfect (he did, indeed, have a darker side), his faith, his politics, and his lifestyle were honorable.

This morning was supposed to be hectic for me. I pushed my husband out the door rudely so I could start a mountain of chores, only some of which were humanly possible to complete, before my parent’s arrived for a long-awaited visit. Then Andy Griffith died and my priorities realigned. I have spent the past hour reflecting and composed a short list of what this heroic man taught me, through his television show, musical talent and lifestyle.

What I learned from Andy Griffith…

….about being an artist:

  • Sensationalism is unnecessary
  • Simplicity can still be quality
  • Happiness is legendary
….about family:
  • Nontraditional situations are ok
  • Values and morals will always be important
  • All situations can be taken in stride; nothing is the end of the world

….about being an American:

  • Culture is worth celebrating
  • Fame does not have to cause corruption

….about being a Christian:

  • Lifestyle is more important than preaching
  • Heritage is worth preserving
  • Sharing faith can be done tactfully, without causing annoyance

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