The Man and the Man in Black and The Man in White.

When my grandpa, Dick Kipen, met Johnny Cash for the first time, it was a meeting that would have a lasting impact on both of their lives. It was the kind of meeting that only a dreamer could envision.

As Johnny and Dick were talking, Johnny said, “Dick, Dick, I’m going to Hell, Dick!” Dick responded by telling Johnny, “It doesn’t have to be this way.” Dick was a devout Catholic and believed that no man has to go to hell unknowingly. He then opened his Bible and pointed to the book of Revelation. He explained to Johnny the values and blessings of reading the book of Revelation out loud to others. He told Johnny that if he could “pull those strings long,” get that scroll and read it to everyone he could, he would be blessed.

Johnny and Dick were finished talking, but apparently, Johnny didn’t forget the words long written down. In fact, he wrote a song about it – ‘The Man Comes Around.’

As the song says:

“There’s a man going ’round taking names
And he decides who to free and who to blame
Everybody won’t be treated all the same
There’ll be a golden ladder reaching down
When the man comes around.”

The conversation that my grandpa, Dick, had with Johnny Cash ended up inspiring one of the most prolific songwriters in American history. And even though Johnny Cash has since passed away, the impact that my grandpa had on his life survived him.

Dick’s message to Johnny that day was that there is always hope. Even when things seem grim or hopeless, he believed that everyone could be a better person. Through hard work, faith, and perseverance, anyone could overcome their struggles and find peace.

The impact that my grandpa had on Johnny’s life goes to show that one conversation can make all the difference in the world. It is a testament to the power of words and the importance of never giving up hope. I will always be proud of my grandpa for spreading that message and making a difference in the lives of those around him.