Relative Resignation

I first met Hank Williams, Jr., while waiting in line to rent a boat at a marina in Myrtle Beach, SC. I had been in the line for an exceptionally long time and my patience was wearing thin.

Groaning, stretching, and looking to the sky for mercy, I failed to identify Hank, Jr., when he first walked past. I did, however, notice he was allowed to bypass the line, grab some supplies, and toss them into a boat called “Rowdy” without a word from anyone.

As he then proceeded to occupy the only employee at the desk with small talk, he caught me shaking my head and glaring at him in disbelief. Hank, Jr., shrugged and offered, “Membership has its privileges!”

I wouldn’t describe myself as “star-struck” at that point, as I had never had any appreciation for the man’s music, apart from the Monday Night Football theme song, but my eyes did widen as I realized who he was. As I could see that he noticed me making the connection, I apologized for staring and explained that I thought for a minute that he was Carrie Underwood.

Hank, Jr., thought that was so funny that he invited my family out on his boat that day, and we really hit it off. I’ve seen him countless times since then. He always pretends it is a coincidence, but we both know he doesn’t shop at my local grocery store or go to my kids’ school. It has become a problem, but at least I’m not still waiting in that line.

• Written for “A Dishonest Boast”