Quackers
Not
familiar with the name? Quackers has been my traveling companion for over
twenty years. He has persevered through all kinds of weather: intense heat and
freezing cold. He has endured my moods and monologues. He is the ideal companion
who hears and sees all but utters not a word.
Quackers
is one of the Beanie Babies Collection. My kids gave him to me as a gift to
accompany me on my road trips. This was a time when I travelled a lot. I
appreciated his company during those hours of windshield time. His silence was
golden, but I knew he heard and understood my every word.
Quackers
has aged a lot. He sits on the driver’s side of the dashboard of my 2007 ¾ ton
Sierra GMC. That is where he sat on my three previous trucks and a half dozen
automobiles. The sun has faded his once bright yellow fur. His beak and webbed
feet are now a faded orange. His eyes are still deep black that give the
impression that he is looking and listening attentively. He’s a little dusty
but he’s still smiling.
Often
when people ride in my truck, they ask about Quackers. I am happy to tell them
the story of how my kids gave him to me. I also tell them that Quackers,
besides being a great traveling companion, is a visible reminder of my kids
love for me. It’s good to have that memory.
Recently,
two of my grandkids gave me a gift of their own Quackers. Each was bright
yellow fur, orange beak and webbed feet. One I keep as a spare in the truck and
the other sits on my office desk.
Fearing
to misuse Scripture, I think this one speaks of Quackers: “There are friends
who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother.”
Thanks,
Quackers for being my friend!
