Help Me Pray! / Jevon Butler (Nephew)
To my dear Uncle,
As I sit here still in shock I reflect on my Uncle Frank. Known throughout the community as a great businessman, dedicated Anglican and all-around 'good guy’ let me allow you to see him through my eyes.
Uncle Frank always stood out as he and my father were the tallest brothers. I always remember looking at his stature in amazement, especially his huge fingers, thinking to myself 'Thank God he is not my father because I wouldn't wish for him to spank me.' His demeanor was always one of authority; very serious and concise when asking a question or given an answer. Both he and Uncle Basil had this mannerism but it was understandable as they were the uncles involved in the business.
As I grew up around and spent time with my cousins (specifically Damien and Franklyn Jr.) I noticed that Aunt Clem was the care-giver as she would carry us around in the 'Crown', with the fridge in the back, on Sundays during our summer vacations. Silver Cay was the get-away for the summer as you could go in the pool or play basketball in the back, after you knocked off from work. Every so often you would see that game of Monopoly appear as everyone's eyes lit up, waiting for the chance to call themselves the best player (this business ting start from young).
What stood out for me was watching Uncle Frank come home in the late evenings after a hard day at work. When he arrived everyone knew that the man of the house was present. On those one or two occasions when I slept over I always remember my uncle making his sons read and recite Bible verses. He was adamant about the Bible and ensured that his sons were well-versed. No matter how busy he was he made sure spend that precious time with them every evening.
As the years progressed and time went on I developed a greater appreciation for my uncle. As I extended my education through high-school and then at a tertiary level I would study business cases, with that being my major, about different international companies. When I would meet with study groups I could see how the date presented confused them but I was able to simplify the information for them to understand. They would always ask, 'Well, how do you know these things Jevon?' and my reply would be 'I grew up in this.'
The simple conversations I had with and observations I made from my father and uncles broadened my horizons to the business world. Specifically, Uncle Frank, Uncle Basil and Uncle Joe, who always reacted calmly to any major issues that were presented to them. Uncle Frank was the Head of the group but he always sought consultation from his mother (now deceased) and siblings. 'Strength in numbers' has always been and will continue to be the strongest attribute of the Butler clan. Of course, the Lord always came first, as I can remember Uncle Frank mumbling under his breath at his office 'Lord, teach me how to pray,' whenever faced with a matter he didn't fully understand or a problem that needed resolution.
Uncle Frank was always willing to share information with anyone who was willing to listen. I recall on a particular Saturday he and I went for a drive after work. What amazed me was his love for Classical music, as he spilled in a Handle CD as we parked on Montagu beach. We conversed for almost two hours about everything from Religion to Politics to Finances. I remember him telling me a few things that stood out:
1) 'Make sure help your mom out wherever you can'. (This showed me his responsible side and how he took the ordination for men from God seriously)
2) 'Always create time to think and never make a major decision until you've prayed about it and slept on it.' (This taught me how to be patient when making life-changing decisions).
3) 'Determine when you wish your self-gratification. If wish for it now, do not be jealous of those who enjoy it later.' (This registered the most. There is nothing wrong with enjoying life but if you wish to enjoy it today do not hate the other man who withheld his when he finally decides to do the same).
My Uncle affected many lives, including mine, and will be sorely missed. I don't know if you did it yet Uncle Frank but I hope that you 'Finally figured these people out.'
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