Jackassalope

A Movie Can Remember When

I watched “The Shootist” starring John Wayne today. Wayne plays a crotchety old gunfighter who travels to Carson City to die of cancer. Because his reputation precedes him, he is forced to fend off pestering town folk and revenge seekers alike. I’ve seen it before but being father’s day weekend and all, I felt like watching some movies that reminded me of my family. My dad has probably seen every John Wayne film 10 times over, so by mere default I’ve seen most of them several times. I always enjoyed his films, but never really understood my dad’s passion for them. Regardless, it’s been awhile since I’ve watched the Duke draw his pistol.

My revelation occurred halfway through “The Shootist.” I always recognized the resemblance between the characters John Wayne played and my grandfather, but it wasn’t until today that I realized how powerful of a connection it was. His walk, the way he speaks, and his don’t take shit from nobody attitude echo the sediments of my grandfather to his last breath. I guess it makes sense; my grandpa was also a fan of the Duke.

As I sat there and watched, my mind was flooded with memories, good, bad, and indifferent. The fact of the matter is that the movie just made me feel good. It was like being home without going back home. My dad loves his movies because he loved his dad. We tend to relive our memories regardless of where they are harbored. My grandfather died several years ago, but I can see him not only through my dad, but through the movies they shared.

My grandpa was a crotchety old cowboy, stubborn until the day he died. He may not have been a gunfighter, but he sure as hell was a fighter. I thank my dad for giving me the keys to this past. He made sure we knew where he came from and why that's important. Powder River Let'r Buck! Happy father's day, dad.