First Things First

Ernest Charles Ely, Sr

I remember Dad talking about this picture to someone who had come to our house.  When asked why he had his picture taken with his Bible, he replied that more than anything else he wanted to be remembered for his love of the Lord, his Savior Jesus Christ.  I have paraphrased that according to my memory, but it is pretty close to his actual response.

At the time I was growing up I did not always realize what great parents I had.  I took them for granted.  Like any kid, I often disagreed with limitations that were put on me.  I would get frustrated at dad's seemingly never ending sermons, not being allowed to play cards (they were the devil's deck), not being allowed to wear "hot pants" or bikini swimsuits.  Lol... he had a sermon for everything!  I remember one time when I was very little, maybe four because both of the boys were still living at home, Ernie and Craig decided to aggravate dad by walking through the house singing the Beetles song, "I Love You Yeah Yeah Yeah".  I joined them.  My brothers could do no wrong... EVER... and I was always on their side.  Except when they took me by the arms and legs and swung me on the couch so they could hurry and run out the door and leave for somewhere without me!  Anyway, sure enough, Dad heard the singing and we got a sermon!

When I was older and would complain about my life, Dad would shake his head tell me, "You don't know how good you have it."  He was right.  I had no idea.  In fact, as a young adult, I just took for granted that all men were like my dad; all men loved and provided for their families, were faithful to their wives, had high morals, and walked the talk they talked.  Not.  Since reaching adulthood, I realize more and more how very blessed I am to have been born into the family I was.  In retrospect, no child could ask for better parents than what mom and dad were to us.

In the front of his wallet, Dad carried this picture of Christ.  Since their faith was the most important aspect of both of my parents lives I chose this to be on the first page of the scrapbook.