A Godfather is a Real Father

Today I wanted to spotlight a very important person in my life. This is my godfather Buford Smith displaying his oil paintings at our city museum. He displayed about 150 paintings and said he had at least 300 more at home. Buford is 91 years old with the heart of a 21 year old. Growing up, him and my godmother Mae were a part of our everyday lives. They treated us just like their own flesh and blood. We were spoiled just like grandchildren. Spending time at their house was something we looked forward to every week. Usually when we arrived at their house Buford was in his painting room working on a new piece. But as soon as he saw us the playing would ensue. He would ride us around on his back playing horse, let us ride behind the lawn mower in a trailer, take us through the garden to show us his prize veggies, or swing with us in the back yard. I'm amazed that he was able to keep up with us all those years ago, but the crazy thing is that he still does! Buford loves music. I always remember big band music coming from his bedroom. He is an avid ballroom dancer and has been jitterbugging for at least the past 60 years. Once he tried to teach me and Melanie how to dance by putting these footsteps all over the living room floor. Turns out we didn't make great partners. The most important thing I remember growing up at their house was that every night after supper Buford headed to his room to work on his Sunday School lesson. He probably didn't realize at the time that he was teaching us what it meant to love the Lord and have a relationship with Him. Studying the bible daily was a priority and a joy for Buford. He is a great example of someone who doesn't just talk the talk but walks the walk. You don't have to hear Buford talk about his relationship with God, all you have to do is watch how he lives his life. He is loving, honest, loyal, giving, trustworthy, and hard working. I've never heard him pass judgement on someone. He puts others above himself. He has been such a role model for me. I pray that when I'm 91 I'm still serving God and loving others as well as he is. When I think of what it means to be a "god"father I can't think of a better example than Buford.