Under the Wire

Those of you who know who Cher is will be surprised to learn she and I share a unique similarity. Slightly younger readers probably wonder, “Who the heck is Cher?” Once you hear about her, chances are you will be more than a little confused.

Cher began as Cher Bono, part of a 60’s rock duo Sonny and Cher. A good singer, she was equally well known for her outrageous appearance. Wild, sometimes daring clothing occasionally revealed jewelry in places other than her ears and around her neck. “What’s that in her navel?” mothers would ask right before changing the television channel, much to Dad’s dismay. By today’s standards, she was dressed for a trip to the grocery store. These were simpler times and no, we have not yet discussed what we have in common.

As far as I know, Cher was among the first celebrity to become so well known to only need one name. It was a lofty accomplishment only the public could bestow on someone. Later, when embarrassing bad manners, dress and appearance among stars become the norm, some just bestowed the honor on themselves, hoping to fool us into thinking they were that famous. It worked, I guess, for Madonna and a few others who don’t impress me much personally. For others who tried to become well known as Albert, Mike or Ralph, things didn’t work out so well.

Sometimes a group somewhat smaller than the whole county gave one name fame status to a few outstanding individuals. Rodeo fans only need to mention Cody, Fred or Roy and other fans know who they mean. Speed, Trevor, Tuff or even Dean from years back don’t need a last name to be recognized.

Once in a while, a single nickname is awarded by a group to recognize a particular level of fame. This is where I may have joined the lofty group we have been talking about. That single name status is what Cher and I might have in common. My honor could have been given to me by those with whom I roped against for years. It would have had to do with my reaction to pressure during a big roping where a lot of money was at stake. I might have been known as Trucker. That’s all. Just Trucker. Where would it come from? When the chips were down, I clutched.

At least I didn’t have to wear weird clothes to get my single name. Eat your heart out, Cher.