For Delbert and Nellie -- Both Audio and Text

This lucky youngster definitely got an ample helping of “love” whenever he visited his grandparents on their farm. For Delbert and Nellie I can still see Grandma Nellie circlin’ ‘round the table. She’d ask him, “Delbert… would you like some coffee?” He’d say, “Please.” And if you paid attention you could see that she was peeking, for just outside the kitchen window - waving in the breeze - Hung a bunch of linen things, and Delbert’s flannel work shirts. Grandpa read the paper while she hummed her favorite song. (“Just a Closer Walk With Thee” today’s my favorite hymn…and every time I hear it, I can't help but sing along.) Grandma Nellie often caught me staring up at Grandpa. She knew he was my idol, and she clearly understood That when he told his stories it was best she hung around, ‘cause if he felt it helped to stretch the truth a bit…he would. He often took me out with him to do the morning chores, and ‘bout the time the sun was halfway up we’d take a break. Those eggs and bacon breakfasts were the greatest in the world, and no one even comes in close to Grandma’s Johnnycake. I remember how I felt the first of many times that Grandpa Delbert swung me up to ride the old John Deere. I thought I’d have to stand beside him, but…to my surprise…he picked me up an’ sat me on his lap an’ let me steer! “Always think ahead,” he said, “tractors turn real wide. An’ this right here’s the throttle…it’s the thing that sets the speed. Now…turn the key, an’ take your foot, and push that button there. I’ll help you with the shifting, and we’ll go and get some feed.” I don’t think we ever made it into second gear, but I was on a cloud as wide as Texas on his knee. And I remember Delbert telling Nellie over breakfast the best and strongest farmhand that he’d ever had - was me! Grandpa always had a way of making me feel proud. He taught me how to be a man when I was just a kid. Being taught to earn my way - and Nellie’s awesome cooking - are just a couple reasons why I loved them like I did. Shortly after supper I would take my evening bath, then Nellie’d walk me up the stairs and tuck me into bed. Because of all we’d do each day, I’d sleep just like a rock…the pride of being Grandpa’s helper swirling through my head. She’d wait until I’d said my prayers, then leave the door ajar so I could see the hall light, and, in case there was a storm, She’d light a little candle, while reminding me she knew that darkness didn’t scare me, but the flame would keep me warm! Today I’ve got my fingers crossed that someday I will have a marriage that will be as strong - and last as long - as theirs, ‘Cause I can surely tell you everything there is to know about the love you feel inside…when someone truly cares.