On this Thankful Thursday, I am grateful for the gifts that Dr. Jim Southard brings to my life. Jim was the veterinarian for my wonderful dog, British. He cared for British as if British belonged to him. He was a wonderful and caring husband for his late wife, Willa. They met at the University of Georgia. She was devoted to drama and dance. Jim told me, “She was the most beautiful person I had ever seen.” Anyone could see that Willa was just as dedicated to Jim. Jim grew up in Charleston and went to Citadel Square Baptist Church. David Redd’s mother was his RA leader. For non-Baptists that’s a training program for Baptist boys. He and Willa later joined First Baptist. He is a Clemson graduate and served in the Army. He is also an Eagle Scout as is his son. He is still very active in scouting. For a long time he did a veterinary show on channel 5. I followed him as chair of the diaconate at FBC and he was helpfulness itself. I admire his dedication to his profession, his devotion to the church and his great sense of humor. Jim knows how to laugh and how to spin a great yarn. For a time, Jim, Clarence Glover and I rode together for some church meetings. Those trips would cure whatever ails you. Jim is also the ever indulgent granddad and is happy to tell you about them. On this Thankful Thursday, I am grateful for the gifts that Jim Southard brings to my life.
Thankful Thursday is a day set aside to recognize the importance of someone to our lives and to let her or him know of our gratitude. Develop an attitude of gratitude. Say Something Nice; Be a Lifter. You will be glad that you did.
