On September 19, 2012, I had the opportunity to sit down with my Grandad, Bill Owens, who is 90 years old and talk to him about his life. Our discussion ranged from childhood memories, life's journeys through jobs, kids, and ministry, to favorite Bible passages, marriage, and parenting. It was a wonderful time of learning more about my grandparents' lives and I am excited to be able to share what I learned.
1. What are your favorite Scripture passages?
Isaiah 41:10-Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Proverbs 3:5-6-Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
I John 5:11-12-And this is the testimony, that God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life.
Matthew 6:33-But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
Ephesians 2:8-9-For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.
John 16:24-Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.
2. What is your favorite book of the Bible? Why?
Ephesians because of the promises in it.
3. What are some fun childhood memories?
I was in a trumpet quartet and I took lessons from my band director. The four of us boys were the band director's "pets." We spent every Saturday practicing at his house and then we would hit the swimming hole for some fun afterwards. I never knew any different than spending all day Saturday practicing and hanging out with my friends.
Another memory was the Texas State Fair in 1936 in Dallas. The trumpet quartet played 4-5 different shows and we were able to spend all day at the fair. We ended the day playing at the "Streets of Paris," an open air theater with streets coming off of it like spokes of a wheel. Some of the songs we played for our shows included, "The World's Waiting for the Sunrise" and "Roses of Pickerdee." The songs we played were corny, but people enjoyed it. We were not allowed to go down the streets coming off the open air theater because of inappropriate things going on.
4. Did you play any sports?
Yes, I played tennis. My best friend Leon played also. Every afternoon, I would play tennis. At one point, I had a girlfriend named Virginia Andrews who played the C melody saxophone. It was a huge saxophone and not many people played it. Each afternoon, I would carry it home for her, then go home, get my bike, and go play tennis. I went on to play tennis at LSU; however, I couldn't play until my sophomore year. Freshman were not allowed to play.
Stay tuned for more of the interview in a later post:)
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