Frog Level, Alabama.
Approximately the Summer of 1984.
I am standing on the ground pointing my finger and saying every cuss word I can think of.
My two younger brothers, Jason and Johnny, are laughing down at me from our treehouse.
That only makes me madder, so I cuss louder.
I could not understand why they shook with laughter after everything I called them.
Until I heard a voice behind me.
“Sister…”
My knees went weak and I began to cry.
Daddy was standing behind me.
Nothing like the disappointment of John L. Acker to break my heart.
“I can’t believe my baby girl would talk like that.”
I am ashamed to this day just thinking about it.
Daddy will be the first to tell you of mistakes he made.
He has a survivor’s grit to him combined with tender hearted kindness.
These days he grows and cooks collards. If you are lucky, he will deliver them to you.
He makes sure to ask if you ate all of them because he doesn’t like waste.
“Those are a lot of work.”
I divide them up and share to avoid leftovers.
There were years where I felt like I was a failure. No degrees, certificates and titles.
Sitting down to breakfast with him and my baby girl this morning, I am so very thankful.
Lung cancer came along 5 years ago and I never thought I would have mornings like this.
When I think of the unknown of tomorrow, I am unsure of what lies ahead with his health.
But I have decided that I will not allow that worry to steal my joy from today.
So here’s to 2 eggs, bacon, grits, toast and coffee for $4.95.
Breakfast with my Dad and Jeff’s.
We are sitting in a small restaurant like VIP’s.
They might not know who I am, but I do.
I am Sister.
Hugs to you all and Happy Saturday!
Cheryl
cherylsuzette 