My Whole World. Episode 10.
My Whole World is the sixth series in the Dusty Town original historical fiction sequence written by Mary Ann DiLorenzo. Set in rural Kansas just prior to the turn of the century and continuing through the early 1900s, the series follows the Strong family through the challenges and joys of life in Midwest America.
Moving Forward. Episode 10.
Jacob slowly reached into the knapsack he had brought over from the house and pulled out a book, the family history book he had gone to the city to write so that his family’s history to that point in time would not be forgotten over the years to come. Then he spoke to Willie.
“Willie, I want you to have this to keep, and hopefully to add to as the years go by. So the Strong family story and our part of the world will not be lost. And when it’s time, perhaps you will pass it along to Jake, your oldest, with all you had added to it over the years still to come. I love you son and no matter where your heart leads you, you will always have this place and our family to keep close to you.”
Willie smiled through tears as he took the book from his pa. He opened it and he saw his pa had written something inside. It read,
Dearest Willie,
My sweet son, my whole world! Even though they say I can write some, it’s difficult to put into words all you mean to me and how grateful I am for all the love and strength you have given to me over the years, through all the joyful times and the tough times we’ve faced together. Sometimes I look back and wonder how you were so giving, and always knew just what to do and say to encourage me!
Remember your life here in rural Kansas and all the happy times we’ve shared. Remember too, the difficulties we’ve overcome that made us stronger. And never forget the love we’ve shared that made us closer. Tuck it all inside your heart and be sure to pull it out when you feel you could use some rememberin’. It’ll all still be there, way deep inside.
I love you Willie, very, very much. Always will. Love, Pa
April 17, 1906
Frost Pond, Kansas
“I don’t know what to say, Pa. It’s so hard to go, to leave all this. And you.”
“Son, sometimes to move forward we have to rip a little part of ourselves out, to make room for some new parts to fit into our lives. Life is change, not always what we want, but change nonetheless. Go forward with your life Willie. Betty Lou and I will be here for you, always.”
They sat a bit longer there on the porch as a way perhaps of saying goodbye before that time would come in the morning. They savored the time they had together there in rural Kansas as the sun set on another day for rememberin’.
Previous Episodes of My Whole World
And Just Like That, Everything’s Changed. Episode 1.
Feeling a Glimmer of Hope. Episode 2.
Uncertain About Everything. Episode 3.
“Don’t Forget Me Dad.” Episode 4.
The Weight of Jake’s Letter. Episode 5.
Months Go By. Episode 6.
Time to Act. Episodes 7 & 8.
Leaving. Episode 9.
