Today's entry is about my ole friend Earl Eleton. Many of you know Earl - after all, he's the father of Gold City's pianist Channing Elelton. But that's not Earl's only claim to fame.
Earl's known throughout Southern Gospel Music for his dedication to the music and it's people. He's an encourager, an uplifter and a strong spoke in the Southern Gospel wheel. He's opened many doors for a lot of people in this industry, most of which will forever be known only to him and the beneficiary.
But that's just fine with Earl. In fact, that's the way he wants it to be. He enjoys helping people and in a dog-eat-dog world, he's a refreshing breath of fresh air.
Earl's been instrumental in several of the Southern Gospel Music Association's success stories. He's helped many groups in their business affairs, dishing out good advice when appropriate and offering constructive criticism when necessary.
His motivation is pure - he wants to see people succeed and prosper in Southern Gospel Music. More importantly, he wants to do his part to spread the Gospel message as far and wide as he can.
He's a geniune Christian and his humbleness will cause him to call me and say I shouldn't have written this.
But folks, I believe this: too many times, people who truly deserve a pat on the back or kudos are pushed aside by the ole squeaky wheel. There's an old saying in journalism that more or less goes "When you start believing your own press releases, it's time take a good look at yourself." Believe me, that's true.
Earl, in my opinion, is one of those people you don't have to worry about and one, I might add, that will long out last any squeaky wheel.
So, Earl, thanks for all you do. Southern Gospel Music - and the world as a whole - is much better because of your involvement.
