Charles Ingalls Was Really 'Somethin'

For my money the best and most authentic 19^th century era television series of all time was “Little House on the Prairie.” The re-runs are broadcast on the Hallmark Channel on a daily basis, and I make a point to tune in.

Interestingly enough, I have a couple of connections to the characters on this program.

A couple of years ago “Mrs. Oleson,” (Scottie MacGregor) and I established a short-term pen-pal relationship; exchanging several letters. And I am pleased to say that the “real” Laura Ingalls Wilder was a distant cousin of mine; both of us having descended from a particular Mayflower passenger.

And as compelling as I consider the content of my last paragraph, it has little or nothing to do with the topic of this blog.

I simply like two particular traits of the legendary Charles Ingalls; (played by the equally legendary Michael Landon).

His tender nature and his confrontational personality.

The two sides of a coin.

On the one hand Charles could challenge injustice, stand up to bullies, ask the hard questions and defend his family’s honor, and get pretty “in your face” doing it.

On the other hand Charles teared up at the drop of a hat; whether Laura had just won the annual Easter Egg Hunt, or an early snow ruined his wheat harvest. You name it. He cried at will.

Humility and Boldness. Definitely two of my favorite attributes.

Thanks for the fine role modeling, Michael; (I mean Charles).

By William McDonald, PhD. Excerpt from "(Mc)Donald's Daily Diary" Vol. 6