Oak Ridge Boys

The last time we saw the Oak Ridge Boys, Joe Bonsall sang the song G.I. Joe and Lillie, which is on their Colors album. I had never heard it before but thought it was beautiful. I noticed when I went to the “sales” desk to pick up their newest CD that he also had a book by the same name – and he had autographed the books. That was very neat, but I couldn’t afford the $20 price tag on the book plus the money we’d already spent on tickets and other memorabilia.

A couple of weeks ago I decided to check eBay and Half.com to see if I could find a used copy of the book. I didn’t care if it was used, as long as it was in good condition. I actually found a copy for $.75 plus shipping. I ordered it and patiently waited. A few days later, I got a notice that the supplier did not actually have it in stock and my money had been refunded. {sigh} Tried again, and found another seller with the book for the same price. I was happy. The book came yesterday and it’s in what I would consider “like new” condition, complete with a bookmark – AND the best part of all… It’s autographed!!! I was thrilled!

I read it from cover to cover last night. The story is very touching and I can see why Joe Bonsall was (and is) so proud of his parents. They both served during WWII and his father was a decorated hero, although Joe Sr. said the real heroes were the ones who didn’t come home. He had a point because if it wasn’t for their bravery, our world would be very different from what we currently know.

Lillie’s dedication to her husband during his life was especially touching. Although I would never compare myself to her because she had a much rougher road to travel, her actions and her loyalty remind me of me. That sounds a bit conceited and I don’t mean for it to, but reading some of the things she did for him made me realize that I am just as dedicated to Ron as she was to G.I. Joe and my sacrifices are just as meaningful as hers. Our lives are similar in many aspects.

• Lillie and G.I. Joe met by chance and married very quickly – Ron and I met by chance and married very quickly (not as quickly but still very quickly; 5 days for them, 19 days for us)
• Lillie was diabetic and had other health problems – I am diabetic and have other health problems
• Lillie was very dedicated to G.I. Joe and took care of him for years – I am very dedicated to Ron and have taken care of him for years
• G.I. Joe and Lillie were married 55 years – Ron and I have been married nearly 26 years and plan on being married until God calls us home
• Lillie worked two jobs for years while she cared for G.I. Joe – I’m not currently working two jobs but I would get a 2nd one if I needed to
• Lillie stayed with G.I. Joe when leaving would have been the much easier choice – ditto for me
• Lillie’s faith in God got her through life’s trials – I can’t say that I’m as dedicated or faithful, but I do know that without my faith in God, I would have succumbed to stress long ago and know that prayer can help even when you don’t think you can go on any longer

They were the epitome of the true American family – sticking together through thick and thin, even when there was more “thin” than “thick” and a great role model for their children and for others they came into contact with.

I love the Oak Ridge Boys and I would love to go see them in concert next month at the Hard Rock Café in Catoosa, OK. Not happening on my budget right now. It would entail the drive and at least one night in a hotel, but it would be an awesome trip. I just subscribed to receive their email newsletter so maybe there will be other stops on their tour this year that we can get to. I know they’ll be at the Kansas State Fair but the wheelchair access seats that are worth sitting in are already sold.

We were very fortunate to get to meet the Oaks one time when they were in Wichita. They were coming out the back door of the venue as we were rounding the corner to go to the entrance. They were very nice, shook our hands, and gave me their autographs. Sadly, we’ve moved a few times since then and I can no longer find their autographs. I’d love to scrapbook them. Darn the luck. Maybe Joe will read my post and send me new autographs.

LOL, yeah, right. They’ll be attached to front row tickets to the Catoosa show. Of course, he'd have to know where I lived to be able to send them to me. Hahahaha!

(psssttt.... Joe - you can find me by checking out who from Derby, KS just recently signed up to receive your newsletter. LOL! LOL! LOL!)