What Has Changed?

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Let me begin by answering that question–NOTHING. Now ask yourself, “Why not?”

In 1967 Henson Cargill blasted to the top of the country charts with his debut single “Skip A Rope.” The Kentucky Headhunters covered it in 1989 on their debut album. I think it should be covered by artists in every genre of music. The message would still be the same. It’s a powerful one, and is even more relevant today. That is what’s so sad. Over 50 years, and nothing has changed. As a matter of fact, I believe it has gotten worse.

You might not be a fan of country music, but read the lyrics and then ask yourself a couple of questions:

Oh, listen to the children while they play,
Now ain’t it kinda funny what the children say,
Skip a rope.

 

Daddy hates mommy, mommy hates dad,
Last night you shoulda heard the fight they had,
Gave little sister another bad dream,
She woke us all up with a terrible scream.

 

Oh, listen to the children while they play,
Now ain’t it kinda funny what the children say,
Skip a rope.

 

Cheat on your taxes, don’t be a fool,
Now what was that they said about a Golden Rule?
Never mind the rules, just play to win,
And hate your neighbor for the shade of his skin.

 

Stab ’em in the back, that’s the name of the game
And mommy and daddy are who’s to blame

 

Oh, listen to the children while they play,
It’s not really very funny what the children say,
Skip a rope, skip a rope

 

Who’s to blame? Society? Our culture? Your neighbor? How about taking some of the blame yourself?

Why haven’t things gotten better in this country? Spousal abuse still runs rampant. Men, it’s okay to grab a woman wherever you want. Isn’t that right Mr. President? People continue to find ways to cheat on their taxes (are we following our current president’s lead?). Racism is as bad, or worse, than it has been in decades (Mr. President?). Why? Is it so important that we get ahead in life that we stab one another in the back to do so?

Our children learn through observation. It’s so sad that we’re leading them down the path that our parents took us down. It has to stop somewhere. Why not with you? Or, you? Or, even you?

Good night, Mrs. Jackson, wherever you are.