Comments from the Canyons

By Lynn Moncus

7/l/11

One of my mentors once told me that if I made a mistake to be sure it was big enough to be noticed. Well, he didn't have to tell me that as I had already been making such mistakes for years. Unfortunately, I am still making them!

Yes, I made a big mistake in last week's column when I wrote that the THS Class of 1961 would host the Golden Rattler Luncheon on August 6. For once, I am delighted we finally cut down the "hanging tree" that grew on Main Street, or I'd be feeling the noose tightening by now.

The Class of 1956 will host the Golden Rattler Luncheon on August 6! The Class of 1961 will be enjoying their first gathering as 50-year graduates and won't likely

participate in our luncheon until next year.

As most Golden Rattlers know, the 55-year Rattler alumns host the luncheon for the "Golden Oldies." They provide the entertainment and make our part of the reunion memorable. They also sell tickets for the luncheon, and those must be purchased by noon on Friday if we plan to attend.

Someone once said, "To err is human." Well, I am not ashamed to admit that I am human and am capable of erring and even of pronouncing that word correctly. As a child, I usually hesitated to admit to committing any errors, especially if I were talking to Mother. Unfortunately, she tended to believe some of the stories created by my vivid imagination. The moment Dad entered the picture, however, I "fessed up." He had but to look at me to know I was avoiding the truth and to let me know he knew. He and I didn't have to say many words because we spoke mostly with our eyes.

As a result, we could carry on rather lengthy conversations across the room by just glancing at each other. Depending upon the situation, that could get both of us into trouble at times because we might be able to speak without using words, but we couldn't laugh without breaking down completely. Of course, both parents worked hard to see that I knew how to admit to committing errors, and for the most part, they were successful.

I am still embarrassed to have to make those admissions, but I'm more embarrassed to have made mistakes.

Actually, I'd rather not commit any errors quite so publicly, but I am aware that I still need to practice humility and will continue to do so as long as I continue to err.

Being less than perfect is quite easy for this Golden Rattler and English teacher!

Lynn Moncus is a Tucumcari resident and can be contacted through the Quay County Sun at 575-461-1952.