Lessons learned from watching The Andy Griffith Show

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As I was searching for free things to watch through Amazon Prime, I saw that the Andy Griffith show was free. I started watching the first episode. My kids seemed to like it and asked to watch more.

It’s been a long time since I’ve seen the show. I used to watch it before we ditched cable. That was before kids. Now that I’ve had kids, I feel like I was watching the show through different eyes.

What caught my eye:

  • Opie said his prayers before bedtime
  • Good old family values
  • No bad language
  • No disrespectful talk by the kids toward parents or kids with attitudes
  • It had a simple message
  • I love how Andy spoke toward Opie, the tone of voice he used and his word choices

It was refreshing to see these things. I’m used to my kids wanting to watch sitcoms which I do not feel are altogether wholesome. Many are on a channel that has a mouse as a logo. How often do they see a child praying at bedtime? It’s a routine that I try to instill in my kids, but I sometimes wonder if they understand the point. To them, it’s just something I want them to do. But to see someone else do it, could have an even greater impact.

I loved how Andy spoke with Opie. While I know this is just a show, I gathered tips from listening to him. I could always be more gentler with my words. I’m quick to judge and don’t listen well. Andy was patient and always listened to Opie (well.. in this particular episode). I am not that calm, nor am I that “playful” with my kids. I’m more serious.

Overall, this was a show that I did not have to worry about my kids picking up something bad. Nor was it violent.

(My disclaimer is that I am basing all my opinions on this one episode. I don’t remember if all future episodes are like this, but I’m pretty sure that they are.)