Jim Knipe, Tybee Island, Ga. – I sure do miss this old buzzard. He was the best of the best of my adopted Dads.

As written to me by my adopted Father, Jim Knipe, on 12 January 1996

Darryl,

This guy (Mike Royko) has always given me a chuckle. A liberal, “blue collar,” philosopher with lots of common sense. He was one of Lewis Grizzard’s favorites.

Let’s have more laughs and not take ourselves so damn seriously. We can’t be ALL things to all people. Somewhere along the line, half of the people in our population aren’t going to like us or agree with us. The other half will be divided between those that don’t care one way or another. A few of our family, select close friends, and ourselves are all that we have to please.

My retirement was a great adjustment period that took several years for me to adjust to. Your recent change to being self-employed IS a major factor in your attitude adjustment period.

There is a young entertainer today named Harry Connick Jr., A fantastic musician. However, he can’t seem to find just what NICHE of music he belongs to. Someday though, he will, and all will know his name.

I believe you have found your proper niche. It will only take a little while for you to adjust. Remember, you only have to please yourself in this process. The materialistic things don’t matter; your family, Kay, Stempy, your friends, and achievable goals are all that really matter.

We have three children, but they have their own lives for all intents and purposes, so it is Ann and myself, really.

You and Kay were meant for each other. Build your cabin in Kentucky and enjoy life.

Love, your friend, Jim

AND AS I ALWAYS FOUND, HE WROTE ME WHEN I NEEDED ADVICE THE MOST AND WAS ALWAYS RIGHT IN HIS COUNSEL.