A friend earlier today called my attention to some counsel and perspective served up on an episode of The Andy Griffith Show titled, “Opie’s Hobo Friend.” It originally aired November 13, 1961. [It’s politically incorrect these days to refer to a homeless person as a “hobo” – but that wasn’t the case back when John F. Kennedy was in the White House.]

As the storyline goes, a homeless man named David Browne shows up in Mayberry. He swipes some sandwiches, makes friend with Sheriff Andy Taylor (played by Griffith) and by extension, Opie, Griffith’s son. Deputy Barney Fife is suspicious of Browne, but Andy gives the traveler benefit of the doubt. Soon, though, things begin to change.

Opie becomes enamored with the man, impressed how he can eat well and live such a carefree existence without a job. His young and impressionable mind is spinning. Of course, Opie’s innocence and lack of discernment prevent him from seeing through the facade and the man’s dishonesty.

The sheriff gently confronts the man:
 

David Browne: You know, I’ve grown awful fond of that young fellow. What’s wrong?

Sheriff Taylor: Well, there seems to be something wrong with his thinkin’. He’s gotten a little twisted on things lately, like bein’ able to tell the difference between right and wrong.

David Browne: Oh.

Sheriff Taylor: Not that that’s an easy thing. A lot of grownups still strugglin’ with that same problem, but ‘specially difficult for a youngster, ’cause things rub off on ’em so easy.

David Browne: Well, Sheriff, maybe I do look at things differently than other people. Is that wrong? I live by my wits. I’m not above bending the law now and then to keep clothes on my back or food in my stomach. I live the kind of life that other people would just love to live if they only had the courage. Who’s to say that the boy would be happier your way or mine? Why not let him decide?

Sheriff Taylor: Nah, I’m afraid it don’t work that way. You can’t let a young ‘un decide for himself. He’ll grab at the first flashy thing with shiny ribbons on it, then when he finds out there’s a hook in it, it’s too late. The wrong ideas come packaged with so much glitter, it’s hard to convince him that other things might be better in the long run and all a parent can do is say, “Wait. Trust me” and try to keep temptation away.

Wrong ideas packaged with glitter continue to entice and tempt not only children, but plenty of adults, too. 

Today’s parents are in a battle against those who, instead of allowing mothers and fathers to say, “Wait. Trust me,” are saying, “Go ahead. Trust us.”

We’d be better off with a world full of more Sheriff Andy Taylors.