In the part of Walker county where I was raised, there once lived an African-American man who owned a farm, neighboring my grandparents’ place. He mostly kept to himself but was civil to folks, as much as was manageable. Some of my favorite quotes are from Mr. Dick Bryson.
When the old farmers around started giving him advice about sowing and reaping, he’d quietly ask “How much corn you got in your crib?” It was his polite way of saying he would weigh your advice against your proof that you know how to farm.
Some people just can’t help themselves. They plow right into what they think is the right way to do whatever is being done without being asked. They are sure their superior intelligence not only qualifies them, but morally obligates them to put in their two cents.
Now, if you’re a famous meteorologist, we want to know what you think about the weather, because in Alabama, tornado season is 12 months out of the year. I’m talking about folks who get way out of their arena and expect to be appreciated for it. I’ve always said you can learn something from anyone, regardless what he or she does for a living, and I stand by that.
It’s when you always have a better idea than anyone else, especially better than the ones who do whatever your idea is for a living, that you shred my last little bit of patience. If I make a mess, it’ll be my mess. If I lose money, it’s my money. I have asked advice lots of times and will in the future. It seems to me the more knowledge people have the less they go around pushing it on people. They tend to be reluctant to express opinions.
Ever tried to get a simple answer from a doctor? I rest my case. I’m not really an expert at anything and I realize it. Also, I have no corn in my crib.
The Community Curmudgeon will share a rant every other week via The Community Journal. Please behave or something you do could become the basis for one of his/her rants.Â
