There's Not Too Many of These Heros Left

Today marks the passing of an American television icon known for family values and programs that entire generations could watch together. I grew up watching the reruns of The Andy Griffith Show and loved the simple story lines that emphasized life's simple experiences. By the end of each episode, somebody had learned something that enhanced their character.

One of my favorite episodes is when young son Opie (who could roam the town each day because it was safe) met a "magic man" with a "shiney hat" who "jingled from the tree tops". When he shared this at family dinner with Pa and Aunt Bea, no one would believe him. For the next few days, Opie continued to meet his friend, the telephone lineman with the metal safety hat and all his tools dangling from his tool belt. Each night, the earnest son tried to share about his new friend with his family. And each night Pa (Andy) became more angry at this outrageous tale. Finally, he sent Opie to his room for lying and was threatening further consequences if he would not confess. But Opie couldn't confess, because he wasn't lying. The show ends when Andy runs into the telephone lineman and is told what a great son he has. He was sick to learn he had been riding his son for days without really listening to him. His earnest apology and young son's wide-eyed forgiveness leaves the audience with something to think about in their own lives.

Another wonderful aspect about the show is that Andy was a strong, involved father. He was not a joke, he was not an idiot. He did his best and like any parent, sometimes made mistakes. He had the love and respect of his son and he was a strong leader. For some, this is as close as they come to seeing what that may look like.

While the show was simple, there were layers to it. A story writer's guideline that isn't followed very well any more is to "show" not "tell". The Andy Griffith Show did an excellent job of showing the audience and not spelling it out for them. This is something we can teach our children when they are learning creative writing.

It's time for me to rent as many seasons as I can find and start watching them with my family. Without commercials, it's 22 minutes of a visual that can be followed up with some gently guided discussion. Especially today when there is such an absence of solid character heroes on television, the up and coming generations need to see that it really does matter who you are from the inside out first.

We'll miss you, Andy. But thank you for your legacy.