Last night we wrote about the problem with the new season of "Dallas" that just got underway.  Let me say that I fully understand it is next to nothing in the eternal scheme of things.  God knew who shot J.R. before we did but it is a trivial matter.  The problem is the leading actor of the series dies right around Thanksgiving last year.  Larry Hagman was the glue of the drama in its first time on the air and now.  Only five of the episodes were done when he passed away rather suddenly.  You can imagine how the writers, producers and actors are processing their grief.  Those of us who enjoy the series both in the past and present also will notice his absence.  Just glad my beloved grandmother isn't here to deal with it also.

There were a few constants at my grandparent's house when visiting.  One was to watch the noon news daily.  This always led into an hour of taking in "As The World Turns."  No one wanted to interrupt that time.  I didn't keep up with the soap opera but would get a little hooked when visiting.  Summer was the time when all afternoon activity would screech to a halt when the Chicago Cubs were playing.  Few things said summer like the melodious tones of Harry Carey calling a game.  Friday evenings were reserved for watching "Dallas."  Before the days of easily recording a program you remember being sure your seat was saved for a program.  Seems like we even saw a few season ending cliffhangers at their house.  It was and still is a soapy and shallow show but Hagman made it great fun.

There really has to be more to this than writing about a television show.  Part of my thoughts run toward those traditions every family cherishes.  I see and hear about many of those when visiting with families at funeral homes.  Some of them sound odd to me but our viewing schedule back then probably sounds weird to them.  Having a family heritage matters a great deal.  Holidays are about tradition.  Important events together creates a memory to bond people in tremendous ways.  Not every family has such moments to shape our lives.  It does not take long to recognize those people.

Another thought is about how people shape us.  I still reflect upon grandparents gone by.  Who can tell how much effect they have on me?  My guess is it is a pretty decent impact on who I am becoming.  The reality is people can also shape us in negative ways.  I see it on a daily basis.  Some let others get under their skin until they become less than what God desires.  Dysfunctional people usually have a history of unhealthy relationships that dampen their faith or trust in others.  It is true some just seem eccentric or dangerous without help from others.  But most or many allow negative people to put potholes in their journey.  That is something ole J.R. would never do.  It is strangely enough something scripture says we can avoid also.  Who knew J. R. could teach us something about being better with others? 

Bro. Trey