How is one supposed to act when he or she becomes the head of a family line? I can recall when I saw my grandparents on both sides of the family as being the leaders. Special occasions, such as holidays and birthdays brought us together to celebrate with good food and fellowship. I still look back with nostalgia and fond, somewhat sad, memories. Then it came the turn for my father and mother to become the ones to gather around at Christmas time, birthdays and special occasions. Today, I am where my parents were years ago.
One day came, when at age 18 I left home for college. As I left our green valley nestled between Blue Ridge Mountains, I knew that life would be changed forever. I wrote this poem years ago – and others – about my early life.
“I have been to far places. I have seen life’s highs and lows, but when I see your faces my heart feels friendship and glows! I am grateful for the chance to play a small part in your bearing of the lance that prints truth on mind and heart. To have you think well of me gives me the desire to live many years and be among friends who care and give. Your support gives me the will to give forth and do my best in every way to fulfill life’s duties before I rest.”
Today, after years of living a varied and far ranging life far from my Blue Ridge valley childhood years, my principles and beliefs reflect those of my parents and grandparents and no doubt those of pioneer kinfolk who followed Indian traces from Virginia, Pennsylvania and Tennessee into Georgia. After years of reading about ancestors and history of our country, I carry within me those principles and patriotism passed on by our early settlers.
Somehow, on this Christmas Day gathering I felt even more keenly the weight of time and years. I am one who never ceased wanting to go and see our country from sea to shining sea. Over several years through living in Colorado, Texas and Iowa, plus crisscrossing America going to three overseas tours – Korea, Luzon Island, and Vietnam – I enjoyed seeing America! While I said my last trip westward was my last trip, in mind I am still crossing the broad rivers and plains to where snowcapped peaks rise in the distance. I wish all a Happy New Year!
