Even in the darkest times, when we feel like our country is divided and hope is in short supply, there are still heartwarming stories that remind us of the goodness in human hearts. This is one of those stories, the story of a man named Cody Shugart and his childhood neighbor, Mr. Chip, whose enduring friendship and guidance has illuminated their lives for decades.
Cody Shugart had a deep desire to be a father from a very young age. However, this journey was full of challenges, especially because he lacked a father figure in his own life. But then a remarkable man named Mr. Chip stepped in to offer his unwavering support.
Cody kept his relationship with Mr. Chip a secret for many years, but one day he shared a picture of the man and his young son and it instantly went viral. Cody spoke and spoke to explain why the image was so significant rather than stay silent or let the incident pass and fade away.
So many people like this photo, he noted. So I wanted to take a moment to share a story.
Milton West was a neighbor I grew up with. For me it was Mr. Chip. He was an operator at DOW Chemical until his retirement. He has always been there for me since I was two years old.
Growing up without a father was never easy for me. However, Mr. Chip was one of the wonderful people the good Lord surrounded me with.
He constantly emphasized the importance of education and showed me how to maintain a yard. He taught me to appreciate individuals for who they are rather than just their looks. Along with many other life lessons, he showed me how to respect my mom as a saint. He significantly influenced my development as a good son, man and father.
I will always be grateful to God for bringing him into my life.
So last May my wife and I welcomed a son named Bob Wayne Shugart. Mr. Chip and his wife Shirley fell in love with him the moment they saw him. They watch him sometimes when we visit when we can. The last time we visited, Mr. Chip stated that he wished to be known as “POP”. This is his grandson, he claims.
That’s why we had to come up with a name for his wife. Our choice was Lolli!
Therefore, we inform Bob Wayne that we will see LolliPop! The fact that Lolli & Pop will be a part of my son’s life makes me happy. He will grow up to be a fantastic kid, man and parent if he picks up even half of what I did from Mr. Chip.
Every day I read about how race relations are at an all-time low. I disagree and want this to spread a kind, uplifting message to many people. This is just one of many stories from little Victoria, Texas. There are probably millions of other similar stories across the country.
Let’s hope Lolli and Pop live for many more years so that Bob Wayne can learn from them as his father did. Cody’s picture is solid proof that as long as we are nice people, we can get along and love each other.
When Cody shared it, it went viral, garnering over 367,000 views and 122,000 shares within days.
Cody and Mr. Chip’s story serves as a poignant reminder that true human connections can overcome barriers and differences. It is a testament to the lasting impact one person can have on the life of another, and how those bonds can ripple through generations, enriching the lives of all they touch.
Cody’s story continues to touch the hearts and inspire countless individuals, standing as a testament to the goodness that exists in humanity and reminding us that no matter the circumstances, love and kindness can prevail.