Christian Living

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Larry Lilly's Letter Wednesday July 27, 2011

As you know I love to use quotes etc that cause a pause, Selah, pause and ponder if you will, that glue to instant recall in your memory. I think you will like todays.

Joyce's grandmother used to quote Benjamin Franklin and Joyce learned much from her grandmother's use of the phrase, so much so that I often feel like a violin being played by a wunderkind. Franklin's words of wisdom:

"When the well's dry we know the worth of water."

I heard her say to her husband one time, "Well, Frank, when the well's dry you’ll know the worth of water." This would slip from her mouth, with the hint of a tear, and an ever so slight quiver of the lower lip. At this point Frank would slither from the kitchen to the barn there to attempt to figure out just how things got this far down the road, and how in the name of the Almighty was he ever going to get back into her good graces.

I recall watching Mrs. Walker work her magic on children, siblings, grandchildren, and on occasion I was on the losing end of wise but devastating approach to subtly getting her way. At least one of her granddaughters learned her lessons well.

I remember one day, pilfering bits and pieces of the pending dinner for some of her sisters who were visiting from Florida and I had been graced with an invitation for the event. Gram slightly led me down the path about Joyce and me, mentioning our then rather long engagement. Just at the precise moment, she hit me with, "Larry, I know you intend to marry Joycee, and that you have had ample time to really think things through, but you need to understand girls get tired if the wait is too long. Joyce is kind of worried about your commitment and you know what I always say, 'When the well's dry we know the worth of water.'"

I let her know that she in her wisdom had penetrated my thick skull and fearful heart and that her beloved, one of kind granddaughter and I were to set the date later that very day. Her only comment was, "Larry I hope you do, but just remember what I said about the worth of water."

As near as I recall Joyce has never used the "Franklin" quote on me. She has her own version. I think all women know and effectively use some form of Franklin's encapsulated wisdom.

The Great Blonde, with whisper effect, quiver of the lower lip, and tiny tear, will say, "Larry, you will never really appreciate me until I'm wrapped in the cold arms of death."

Each generation gets worse.

It is important to learn to appreciate and express our appreciation for the other. Notice Jesus in Luke 12:7:

But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.

Larry Lilly Copyright © 2011 Use with credit.

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