This afternoon I went over to Publix. I decided to make myself a nice sandwich, so I headed to the deli counter. There were a few people in front of me, so I had a short wait. Also waiting was an older gentleman.

He struck up a little random conversation, and eventually told me a story about he when he was in elementary school, he decided he would make something of himself, and get out of his small home town in Alabama.

He told me about how most of the preachers in town didn't have the greatest diction, but the Presbyterian preacher that was brought in to give the baccalaureate service was a very fine orator indeed, further inspiring him to make something of himself.

He spoke about how he entered the Army, and was VERY glad to come home walking on his own two feet, rather than in a pine box. After the Army he tried to attend Tuskegee, but was told that in order to be accepted, he needed a transcript and a recommendation letter.

At this point, it was his turn in line, and he ordered his turkey ham, but I hope you get the general vibe of the guy. I mean, when a relatively distinguished senior citizen wearing a Tuskegee Airmen cap wants to talk, the least you can do is listen for a few minutes, right? While I was ordering my pastrami and swiss cheese, he wandered off. I can only assume that he eventually made it to Tuskegee.

As I was walking out of the store with my purchases, I noticed him pulling out of the parking lot driving a Lincoln Town Car. A fitting coach for such a man. As he drove away, I looked at the back of his car. I saw one of these:


I guess he didn't learn quite enough at Tuskegee.

Know What I'm Sayin'??