On Sunday, the university was graced with the presence of three cast members of A&E’s record-breaking reality show Duck Dynasty.
Si, Alan and Lisa Robertson fought severe weather and a delayed flight to share tales and a few laughs with the Abilene community during an event named “Faith Calls.”
The message they shared was simple, but powerful and incredibly encouraging. Three TV stars became one with their audience as they shared a message of faith. It was a message many people needed to hear.
Some students claimed they were avoiding the event because they didn’t want to waste time or money listening to a bunch of “dumb rednecks.” The people sharing these thoughts shouldn’t be so quick to judge. Don’t be fooled by first impressions.
True, the members of the Robertson family are rednecks and proud of it. But it’s not the only feature that makes them stand out from the other families portrayed on TV They take pleasure in laughter, spending time with each other and, most importantly, sharing their faith. Shouldn’t everyone be taking a page out of their book?
One of the reasons the show is so popular is because it appeals to people from all walks of life. Everyone can relate to these outspoken and quirky characters. They don’t have to wear camo, like hunting or share a love of fried squirrel to enjoy Uncle Si’s tales, question Jase’s antics or pity Willie’s attempts to grab his employees’ attention. And at the end of the day, everyone wishes they could sit down at the family dinner table to enjoy some good conversation and Miss Kay’s cooking.
The Roberson family is not perfect and they don’t pretend to be. Their lives are exposed to the world, so they use their experiences, both good and bad, to teach others and help them grow.
Si, Alan and Lisa kept it real during Sunday’s presentations. Through the fits of laughter came stories of dedication during difficult times and personal declarations of faith.
Even though some people might not enjoy watching Duck Dynasty, the message the trio sent was one everyone should heed.
Whether you’re making millions selling duck calls or you’re an ordinary college student trying to find your place in the world, faith is a necessary part of every single person’s life.
Faith calls listeners to a life of service. Faith can lead to great things.