Over the years I’ve heard a few good lines. Here’s a sampling of some that come to mind. 

Mr. Donald Peavy was retired from farming when I met him in 1976. He was a loyal customer of Rooney Bowen Chevrolet and bought a blue Chevette while I was working there. He’d stop by occasionally, usually to get his car worked on. Our friendly banter was mostly of a nonsensical nature. Sometimes after an especially funny moment he’d ask with enthusiasm, “Don’t it feel good to laugh?”

It’s easy to picture Mr. Donald’s big grin as he posed that rhetorical question. Almost 50 years later I warmly remember those long-ago chats. I don’t recall anything in particular we ever talked about, but I hope I never forget how good it feels to laugh.

Rooney Bowen, my cousin and dear friend, was also my employer for five years. He had several good lines, including one I’ve tried to live by. Rooney was involved in state politics, first as a representative then as a senator. I’ve forgotten the details, but some controversial matter was being debated. To my young eyes it looked as if he should tread lightly, an approach I politely suggested. Rooney countered with what I consider sage advice. “Stay with the one what brung you to the dance.” 

In case heaven has access to Joiner’s Corner, I should apologize to my late English teacher, Mrs. Sadie Collins. She taught English and Spanish at Unadilla High School for decades and would no doubt gently scold me for not rephrasing some of today’s quotes. I believe humor, however, should not be held captive by rules of grammar.  

When Jane and I moved to Vienna in December of 1975, Mr. Emmett “Pa” Stephens was among the senior citizens I enjoyed getting to know. He was a constant source of good lines, many of them made up on the spot. One that I occasionally borrow is from the latter part of his life. He was probably in his eighties when I first greeted him with, “You’re looking good, Pa.” His smiling response would always be, “Looks never has been my problem.” 

James Woodward was another of the mischievous characters I met soon after becoming a resident of Vienna. He was quick witted and had an arsenal of comedic lines. Perhaps, though, his most memorable saying blended humor and humility. If asked how he was doing, James would pleasantly reply, “Better than I deserve.”

A former schoolmate at Unadilla High, William Sparrow, has used that same response for a long time. William sometimes adds a noteworthy tag. “And I thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” That addendum is a good reminder to give thanks for our blessings and to acknowledge the source.    

I guess we’ve all heard a few good lines. Some stick with us while others fade in time. I enjoy revisiting old sayings, but the deepest pleasure comes from remembering the folks who said them. Good lines, I’ve found, usually come from good people. 

Mrs. Collins is likely to mention this column when we meet in the hereafter. She will acknowledge my use of direct quotes is acceptable, but with a hint of a smile probably suggest it was an opportunity to encourage proper grammar. “Yes, mam,” I’ll answer with the respect that great teachers deserve, “but don’t it feel good to laugh?”