What My Prophyte Taught Me About Brotherhood and Becoming Better

This past weekend, I had the opportunity to experience something special: my immediate prophyte, Hubert “Burt” Jackson, turning 50. Over the past 25 years, I’ve learned about brotherhood and becoming better through our friendship.

Burt is Fall 1998, Rho Epsilon Chapter, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.. I pledged Fall 2000 at the same chapter. And from the moment I came into the fold, his presence was a constant. If you know him, you know the name has to be spelled B-U-R-T — like Burt Reynolds. You’ll have to ask him about that part.

One of the things Burt always said early on was that because of what he experienced in his own process, he made a commitment to himself that he would see every line that came through Rho Epsilon for the next 20 years. He wanted to make sure what happened to him and his line brothers never happened again to anyone else at PE.

And he meant it.

Between Fall 2000 and Fall 2025, we’ve taken more road trips than I can count — from my very first road trip as a bruh to Nu Eta (University of Southern Mississippi), to Centennial in D.C., to the Vegas Clave, and so many more. Over time, our bond moved well beyond fraternity events.

I became an uncle to his daughter, Kaitlyn, and eventually had the honor of becoming her godfather. He and Karyn are Godparents to Jaxon. Life also showed us that brotherhood isn’t just about marching, wrecking and singing frats songs. We’ve walked through moments that change you forever — the loss of children, like Deuce, and the loss of parents, like my father, George Sr.

Those moments have a way of clarifying who truly loves you.

And Burt — along with his entire family — has always been part of that circle. But this isn’t about getting too sentimental. This is about the lessons.

Burt-isms That Stick With You

One of the things I appreciate most about Burt is his self-awareness. As far back as 1998, he was acutely aware of his own mistakes — and intentional about making sure the people closest to him didn’t repeat them.

One phrase I’ve heard him say more times than I can count is:

“Don’t be like me. Be better than me.”

That’s not something everyone can say with sincerity. It takes humility, honesty, and care for others.

Another classic Burt-ism:

“You’re not gonna piss on me and tell me it’s lemonade.”

Translation: don’t let anyone fool you. Don’t be naïve. Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t sit right, it probably isn’t right.

There are plenty more sayings that folks know Burt for, but in true Que dawg fashion — because I’m a Deuce — I’m going to leave it at just those two.

The Example He Sets

What stands out most to me about Burt isn’t just what he says, but how he lives. He has been a consistent example of four things:

Love.
Burt loves his people. And if you’re his, he will protect you — no questions asked.

Consistency.
He knows what he likes and doesn’t deviate much. If he trusts you, he’ll take your recommendation — he might try the food or the drink — but it probably won’t make it into the Burt-folio.

Perseverance.
Some of the things I’ve watched Burt endure would break a lesser man. I won’t get into his personal business, but if you ever need a lesson in perseverance, call him.

Industry.
With degrees in business psychology, specifically industrial-organizational psychology; credentials as a K–12 certified school counselor; national board certification; and now working in therapeutic environments — Burt embodies professionalism and ambition. And let’s not forget, he also sells some pretty bougie dogs. Shoutout to BlaQJaQ Kennels.

The Takeaway: Brotherhood and Becoming Better

Experiencing my prophyte’s 50th birthday reminded me of something simple but important:

Celebrate your people.
Spend time with your people.
Love your people.

If you’re paying attention, you’ll learn something from them. And if you’re doing it right, you’ll leave a positive mark on each other along the way.

Happy 50th, Burt. RQQ!

About the Author
George “Chuck” Patterson is a creative strategist, civic organizer, and cultural storyteller based in Mississippi. He serves as Co-Founder and Board President of Mississippi MOVE, Inc., and Chief Experience and Design Officer at Black With No Chaser. His work centers on community, family, faith, and the everyday actions that shape legacy. Patterson is a devoted husband and father who believes the most powerful sermons are lived, not spoken.