I was singing that old song (way older than me), “Thanks for the Memory” last night. I remember Bob Hope crooning his famous theme song “Thanks for the Memory", that he originally sang in a 1938 movie and went on to end his TV variety shows with it.
I was thinking about it because my cousin and I have relived so many childhood memories that included our time here in Red River, NM. I remembered that drive here and the two of us from the back seat, belting out the 1960 song by Anita Bryant, “My Little Corner of the World”.
On Monday, we took a little stroll in the town area and the memories rolled on. As we walked by the Red River Stables, we remembered when we went horseback riding from those stables. Myra’s horse was obedient but mine was stubborn and kept stopping to eat grass. It was so hard to get him to move along. Then, in the intersection of town, he decided to lie down right in the middle of the street. I was mortified. It was almost too much laughter – at this age – if you know what I mean! I was told that I should feel very fortunate the horse didn’t buck me off before he went down. I was very grateful. I told the stable keeper our story. She laughed and agreed that's the way it was, but now they lead the horses to privately owned land and slightly up the mountain. No longer can riders go it alone and certainly not go down the streets of the town.
BTW – pictured here – right in the middle of town are deer that apparently didn’t get the memo about critters not coming into town. On the other hand, maybe deer are excluded!
I was raised as straight-laced as I could be which meant that I didn’t get to go to movies, but thanks to my Uncle Dewayne and Aunt Marie, I saw my first movie in Red River. If my memory serves me correctly, it was “Cimarron”. Myra pointed out that the "Alpine" is where the theater used to be. She also pointed out the cabins where we stayed, as well as the community center where we attended a church service there. I remember the square dancing and Disney movies shown there. The center is closed now because of the pandemic. Myra pointed out the little shopping square where we were entertained by Indian dances.
Oh, what precious memories we have shared but none compare to the strong faith that we were all raised in. Our families were believers in Jesus and were determined to serve Him with all their hearts. Best news ever was when we were talking about our own children and grandchildren who are carrying on the faith traditions that were instilled in them by us.
The sweetest of memories are those that include the blessings of faith – through many ups and downs of life – the one constant that remains – unchanging and unwavering. Sure, there are changes in this enchanting and vibrant little town of Red River. There is no longer a theater here, horses can’t be ridden on the streets, the community center is closed because of Covid, and all must wear face masks. Changes. We’ve changed also.
One thing does remain and stays the same. That one thing – rather, that One all-knowing, all-seeing and all-loving God and His unchanging ways. Thanks for the memories and the joys of the past, but living in this here and now is a great place to be with our God Who has never left us or forsaken us and will be with us forever, In the meantime, thanks for the memories!
"The memory of the righteous is a blessing...." Proverbs 10:7
