Essays
A Verbal Keepsake
A VERBAL KEEPSAKE
Andrew Jackson was our nation’s seventh president, serving two full terms from 1829-1837. Jackson’s supporters founded the Democratic party. He was noted for his strong efforts to advance the rights of the common man and for fighting assiduously against the so-called, “corrupt aristocracy”. Andrew gained fame as a general in The War of 1812, especially as a result of the battle of New Orleans. His toughness earned him the nickname, Old Hickory. His home, The Hermitage, in Nashville, is open for visits. In his biography of Andrew Jackson, H.W. Brands conveys this touching story. Jackson’s mother died just after she secured the release of Andrew and his brother (both were held as prisoners of war by the Brit-ish during The Revolutionary War). Andrew’s father died before he was born and his brother died shortly after his release as a P.O.W.. Andrew was only 14 and was soon alone. Jackson’s mother died shortly after an attempt to secure the release of Andrew’s cousins, also prisoners of war.
Before she left she spoke these words to him (words that would end up being her last words to her dear son).
Andrew, if I should not see you again, I wish you to remember and treasure up some things I have already said to you.
Andrew’s mother went on to speak to him about the importance of friends and gratitude and politeness. She urged him to avoid quarrels and to work hard at controlling his anger. Lord wiling, I will disclose her exact last words with you in detail next mother’s day. In sharing these words with a group, Jackson noted: Gentlemen, her last words have been the law of my life. Jackson never forgot his mother’s last words. They became for him a verbal keepsake that he cherished for the rest of his life. Andrew Jackson became one among millions who’ve come to grasp the wisdom of that ancient and sacred proverb - - Do not reject the teaching of your mother; for they are a garland of grace on your head (Prov.1:8b-9a).
Terry Siverd / Cortland Church of Christ
