Lesson from An Old Guitar

FOREWARD
Sometimes, the greatest parables can be found in everyday
situations. What you’re about to read is something that
happened to me in August, 1964. It’s the story of an
encounter between me and my father, C. E. Hinson.
I’ll never forget the lesson he taught me that day … it’s one
that I’ve passed down to my children, and to others. It’s
my prayer that you’ll find the lesson in it, as well, and pass
it on to those who can use the wisdom he conveyed in this.
My dad was, in my eyes, the greatest man God could’ve
put in the 20 th Century. He and my mama were the epitome
of what Christ taught … and, to their memory, I dedicate
this story.
I hope you enjoy it.

A LESSON FROM AN OLD GUITAR
Years ago, when I was just barely into my teens, my
dad came home from work carrying a battered, old
guitar. He knew I wanted to learn to play one – I’d
seen folk groups, country acts – even some new
group called “The Beatles” playing them, and it
looked like so much fun. In fact, while these
performers were on TV, I’d watch carefully for the
close-up shots, and (using a baseball bat as a
“guitar”) I’d mimic their fingering, position of the
chords and timing.
When he gave me the acoustic guitar, I sat down and,
propping it up on my knee, began to position my
fingers on the neck, just as I had seen the performers
do. Certainly, I was going to be the next Elvis.
But he did something that I’ll remember to my dying
day: He took a big, calloused hand, put it over the
fingerboard and stopped me from playing! Then he
said,
“Son, wait a minute. Let me tell you a little story.
You see, Life’s a lot like that old guitar you’ve got, especially when it’s time to pay your dues. And, just like the sounds you can make on that guitar, the onesyou make in life is entirely up to you. We can’t stop you from framming away at it like an off-tune madman any more than we can stop you from playing beautiful music.
When you get to be an adult, it’s going to be the same thing when you’re ‘out there’ in the real world. Nobody can stop you; it’s your choice as to what type of ‘music’ you give them.
Now, you see those strings, and how you’re holding them down with your fingertips? Each note is meant to create harmony with each other. That's your goal in life, son … learn to place each thing you do …each step you take … so it’ll be in harmony with mankind. Otherwise, just like with the guitar, you’re gonna make such a noise that nobody’ll want to hear you.”
I listened intently; this was good stuff! Then he
continued,
“And, by and by, you’ll learn how to sing with that
guitar – maybe even write a few tunes yourself.
When you do, remember that a simple tune does
better when the words are from the heart. Make them easy for people to learn … to keep in their mind. And you’re painting a picture with each one. Son, remember to do the same thing in your everyday doings, and you’ll make friends and be happier than you ever thought.
And that ‘song’ that you sing … the one you show
everyday in your actions … will be the one that’ll go ‘number one’ with your friends and others. Just
leave the lyrics open to your brother’s and sister’s
point of view, and they’ll be humming that song long after you’ve gone.
Now … let’s hear you play …”