Blood doesn’t make a family. It doesn’t teach values, hard work, or show us love. Family is made up of the people who love and care for us, who invest in us, and who help teach us. Cody Shugard recently shared a heartwarming picture of his life-long neighbor and friend, Mr. Chip, holding his son. Shugard wrote a deeply touching tribute to Mr. Chip, expressing how he helped shape Shugard into the man, father, and son he is today.
Mr. Chip: A Guiding Light
Milton West, fondly known as Mr. Chip, has been my neighbor since my childhood. I’ve known him since I was two years old, and he has always been there for me. Growing up without a father was challenging, but the good Lord blessed me with great men in my life, and Mr. Chip was one of them. He taught me the value of education, how to take care of a yard, how to see people for who they are, not just what they look like. He showed me how to honor and respect my mother, and many other valuable life lessons. His contributions to my journey of becoming a good son, man, and father have been immense. I am forever grateful for God placing him in my life.
Embracing the Next Generation
In May, my wife and I welcomed our son, Bob Wayne Shugart, into the world. When Mr. Chip and his wife, Shirley, saw him, they fell instantly in love with him. They enjoy babysitting for us, and we visit them whenever we can. On our last visit, Mr. Chip expressed his desire to be called “POP” and referred to himself as Bob’s grandfather. So we decided that his wife would be called “Lolli.” Now, we tell Bob Wayne that we are going to see Lolli Pop! I am incredibly grateful that Lolli and Pop will be a part of my son’s life. If he learns even half of what I learned from Mr. Chip, I have no doubt that he will grow up to be an amazing son, man, and father.
A Message of Love and Unity
In a world where negativity and talk of worsening race relations dominate the headlines, I strongly disagree. Stories like mine and Mr. Chip’s remind us that love, acceptance, and family are what truly matter. This is just one story from little old Victoria, Texas, but I am certain that there are millions of similar stories across the United States. Let this heartwarming tale serve as a positive and loving message to all. Together, we can redefine the meaning of family and build bridges of understanding and compassion.
We absolutely adore this beautiful story that celebrates love, acceptance, and the power of chosen family. If you also find inspiration in this heartwarming tale, let us know in the comments below!
