The Journey 5b1l1x

Copyright © 2014 Karl Olson.

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Scripture taken from the King James Version of the Bible.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Thinkstock are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only. Certain stock imagery © Thinkstock.

ISBN: 978-1-4808-0836-2 (sc) ISBN: 978-1-4808-0837-9 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2014910064

Archway Publishing rev. date: 6/16/2014

Contents

Foreword

The Journey

The Cabin

The Barn

The Family

Sorrow and Tribulation

Self-Sufficiency

The Owl Called My Name

The Empty Cabin

Back to Life

What Is Life?

The Last Chapter

Epilogue

In memory of my parents, Berndt and Rebecca Olson

My father, a Swedish immigrant, came to this country to seek a better life and fulfill a dream. My mother’s parents came from Denmark and settled in Iowa. They too wanted a better life. Together my mother and father worked hard and achieved much in a free country, the United States of America.

Thank you to my brother, Roger Olson for the paintings that were used in this book.

Foreword

T he road goes forward, winding around cliffs, hills, and valleys. A winding road is life. It is a time for sorrow and a time for joy. It is a time of strife, despair, and ignorance of events. It is also a time of opportunity and joy. We follow the road into life and meet each curve with courage and purpose, preparing for what is not seen beyond the next c urve. The human spirit is what keeps us on the path. The spirit of truth is what prevents us from veering off the road. The spirit of self-reliance and independence grasps the very core of our being and then develops into maturity, which will lead to wisdom. Failure to make the turn will lead to a strong desire to find a way back to the road. The spirit is lost in the loss of self-reliance. We are travelers on a winding road, working our way down a path of life. Beyond each curve is a challenge that must be met. We meet challenges in different ways. We know that past experiences will help in acting on those challenges with maturity and common sense. The winding road flows through the seasons of spring, summer, autumn, and winter. On our travel through the season, we witness change as we confront each season. When we reach winter, we have to ask ourselves if we did our best not only to satisfy ourselves but also to offer good will to others. We live in a country whose beginning was brought about by people who wanted freedom from oppression. They sought lives where they could build upon their dreams and aspirations. This journey through life in a free country is the essence of what a free being can be.

The road stretches in a direction not familiar to the traveler who seeks a new life …

The Journey

T he road stretches in a direction not familiar to a traveler who seeks a new life, new memories, and new experie nces. The road meanders down and then up a hill, past mailboxes leaning from the wind. The faded names on bent and rusted mailboxes are known only by the owners. Some boxes are barely hanging on the rotted posts, sometimes used by animals as scratching posts to get that itch beyond their reach. Some boxes sport a nest in progress by an experienced friend of the sky. The side of the road has high waving grasses and blooming wild roses with pink petals that can be pulled and tossed by the wind, landing in unknown spots, where they will fade and die. Fencerows are falling due to generational neglect; it does not bother the singing lark with outstretched neck as he sings and flies about unconcerned about tomorrow. The bushes shelter all who come to seek protection. The wandering road continues mysteriously through the wooded hills and plains. The forest consists of evergreen trees and those that lose their gifts after they turn color and curl up like aged humans. They fall and gather only to be swept away in any direction by the wind. The road has a stop along the way, where the traveler seeks respite to heal his body and spirit. He sees a gift in what nature had provided his eyes to feast upon. The valley appears pristine and unspoiled. The lofty trees are sparse among the pastures of flowing grasses. The winding stream meanders carelessly among the banks, and foam collects on hidden rocks and stones. It is clear, allowing one to see the treasures of the bed, with some hidden to be discovered later. Cattails with thick brown heads that look like brushes flourish on the banks and are alive with redwing black birds ready to procure two or three stocks to build their nests. The valley is peaceful and serene; at least this is the appearance. The critters from the deep burrows wait for the perfect time to find food in the open fields. Fish surface to feed upon unsuspecting insects that skate on the surface, leaving ripples that spread outward and then disappear. The feeding continues until the sun sets. The leaves flutter in the soft breezes and glimmer in the setting sun. Soft, wispy

clouds adorn the blue sky and stretch from east to west. The traveler continues and then spots a lonely cabin off in the distance, weathered by the storms of the past. It waits for a renaissance to give purpose. The road down into the valley is harsh, with many turns and steep sides that look into infinity. The horses feel the force of the wagon as they strain to restrict its urge to go forward. The release comes when the road flattens, and the horses resume their pull at an easier pace. They delight in the smell of crisp, clear water and scents of grasses waving in the breezes. They neigh at the calm and cooling breeze that soothes their sweating coats. The traveler approaches the cabin and casts suspicious eyes upon its weathered look. He steps upon the porch, watching for rotting planks. The sides are warped, and the outside seems to appear inside. The erosion of time is seen in the chimney as it is leaning to the east. It has missing bricks that have fallen away and now lay upon the ground. Black coats the chimney, which indicates previous life in this cabin. The door sits ajar and allows all that enter a glimpse of the past. He enters the one room and is haunted by the ghosts of the past. A picture on the wall is now covered with webs spun to capture prey. The picture, yellowed with time, shows an image of a family that started and fulfilled the cabin’s dream. Swarming wasps seem disenchanted with the intruder and start to show anger by darting toward him to find some waiting flesh to inject venom in revenge. The table totters on three legs. A chair is in position to the missing fourth leg. The tale that is sleeping here may be revealed later, possibly with a different twist. The sun is setting, and the valley life prepares for a night of rest. The crescent moon begins to travel in order to feed upon the sun’s warm light. Little critters scurry to gather food before the dark falls. A hawk above circles and casts a keen eye on life below, ready for a dive to acquire a meal. The wooded hills that surround this valley are alive with swarming insects and flocks of birds seeking a safe and secure place for the night. The wagon rests near a stream of cool, clear water. The water runs unobstructed. Only stones will impede the flow. The foam gathers onto the stones and then dissipates as it is carried forward. How soothing the water sound is to the weary traveler. The hope is that human life can coexist with the animals and birds and that peace and

tranquility can be achieved. I guess we will have to wait and see.

The Cabin

I am a dream. I am not complete; I want purpose. I want life within. I want to stand strong against the storms of wind, rain, and snow. I want to shelter the family within. I want to provide comfort to the troubled soul. I want to warm the occupants. I want to be a window of the past and into the future. I want to hear laughter of children. I want to hear sorrows and weeping, as that is also life. I want my fireplace to warm and comfort. I want to feel the rain and wind against my sides and snow upon my roof. I shall protect, , nourish, and provide a way of life. Some time ago, it does not matter when, a family made me real. It took months to make me into what I am and many months to decline when they left me. I a family in a wagon approaching a flat place in the meadow, near a stream and grove of trees. I heard them say, “This is where we shall build our home. I was excited to learn of this family, who had had a long, painful journey from the east to this valley. I heard of the pain and hardship they experienced, and I heard of hunger and the small amounts of food on which they existed. Through all this, the family maintained thankful hearts. One evening at sunset, when the valley seemed serene and beautiful, the family held hands and asked God for the strength of another day and thanksgiving for their safe journey. I knew that my dream would be a reality: out of love and faith, my occupants would work hard to build me. There were, however, many days’ of toil and hardship ahead. I would be an inspiration to them during this time of building. Let me start at the beginning. One morning the father takes his ax and ventures into the woods. His goal is to find logs that will provide the walls, floor, and roof I need. He also looks at the streambed for heavy clay and strong grasses that are necessary to build my chimney strong. He marvels at how nature provides all that is needed to build me. He bows in gratitude to his Creator. He walks the valley floor and feels the cool breezes on his sweating brow. He watches a fish feed upon the insects that skate

upon the surface of the water. He watches the rings of water form a circle and then spread out larger until it disappears. Birds flutter about and sing their sweet songs at eventide. Large birds circle the grove of trees, selecting a place to rest, somewhere protected from predators. In the distance, he hears the call of the wild, a wolf howling at the crescent moon. A bugle call from far away is heard loud and clear. An elk stirs and seeks comfort in the tall grasses. He walks until exhaustion takes over. He returns to the wagon, tired but satisfied. He shares the experience with his family. He sleeps well this night and awaits the morning to begin a new life. His cabin awaits its form and purpose. When morning comes, the rays of the sun penetrate the heavy canvas covering the wagon, which have been cramped quarters to this family for months. The thought of a cabin is an anticipated gift. The traveler rises and greets the valley life, marveling at the unspoiled treasure they have been given. The birds flit about singing and searching for insects. The fish start feeding upon the skaters of the water surface. The morning dew bathes the grasses and trees and brings a scent of a new beginning. The scent is intoxicating and revives the soul of the traveler. It is a great and blessed day. The horses stir as the traveler walks to where they stand. He sees contentment and relief after days of toil. However, the horses sense his presence and know that their toil has just begun. He takes one horse and walks to the wooded hills. He has his only tool, an ax. He must select strong wooden poles to each corner and the roof, which will have a slope to shed the falling rain and the weight of snow. He spots a tree so straight and marks it for a corner. He finds three more stately trees that will form the other corners. Four corners are like four seasons, four directions, and four in this family that seeks a dwelling place among this corner of the world. He fells the tree and chips away the branches. They will become starting fuel for the planned fireplace. The tree poles are stripped of their branches and pulled to the cabin area to dry. They will be measured and then chipped so that the logs will lie flat upon each other. The toil is welcome to the traveler after months of wandering in the wilderness. Time is limited, and the breezes from the north will start to blow. Holes are dug and the poles set into the holes. Clay from the stream will secure the poles until the earth settles in.

Day after day, he labors from sunrise to sunset to meet a deadline nature has set for him. He hears the honking of geese as they form a V across the sky, a signal of season change. His labor is not unnoticed by all the critters of this great valley. The cabin takes form and now has space within the walls and roof. A door of rough planks will provide security from the weather and the animals that seek to enter. Cracks in the walls are sealed with mud and grasses. The drying bricks have been curing in the sun and are now taken out of the molds to form the chimney. The fireplace takes form, thanks to the stones of the streambed made smooth by running water. The porch is built for the family to sit and ponder the wonder of this great valley and hear the sounds that are pleasant to their ears. They watch the sun set over the hills and see the red and gold splash of light before it sets. The family prepares to remove the items from the wagon and place them in the cabin. Flour, sugar, spices, and coffee line the shelves on the wall by the fireplace. Clothing is hung from nails on the wall. Cooking pots and pans find their way to the fireplace and are stored in boxes. Beds are made of wooden poles and mattresses filled with grasses to soothe the tired who lie upon them. The elk heard from the hills will provide winter food and covers for the beds. Their meat is salted and dried and sealed in bins for winter food. Some ducks lingering at the stream find life short and become food. Fish of this stream are caught and their flesh preserved for the winter. The circle of life surrounds us and encomes our very beings. The cabin is now a reality. I have waited long, and now I take on a purpose and my dream is fulfilled. I welcome my new family to laugh and cry, sing and dance, pray and give thanks for the bounty that is given to them. I have a door to the outside world. I have a window to see within and out into the future. I have a fireplace to warm the cabin space within. I have a porch for them to sit and marvel at the sight before them. I have ears to hear about tomorrow and dreams not yet voiced. It is a quiet time, but I hear a voice from the wooded hills. It is the voice of an owl lamenting about tomorrow. I then hear a voice of a structure saying, “I do not have purpose. I do not have form.” I come to realize that it is the voice of a form not yet built. The owl seeks a structure and its voice will continue to haunt

the mind of the traveler. The owl speaks of days, months, and even years living in the forest, seeking security in the spruce. He wants a place secure within a structure, safe from winter snows and rain. He knows not where he comes but yearns for a place to stay. It is time to journey to the east, to an outpost, to buy supplies. The traveler hitches the horses to the wagon and prepares for a day of travel. The horses sense the urgency and respond immediately. This journey will take them up the hill they well. Ascending the hill is hard, but they reach the crest and it becomes an easy task going forward. The hills and valleys s all forms of life as nature intended. A lark ascends and sings a song of a grateful day. Flocks of birds fly en masse, darting up, down, and across, finally securing a place in the open prairie to feed upon the seeds. A badger out on an excursion sees the traveler and hurries to his den. The wagon lumbers on, and in the distance, the traveler can see an outpost that will offer supplies: spices, flour, sugar, and coffee; bolts of fabric to be formed into clothing; needles to sew and wool yarn to be knit into socks and sweaters to keep out the winter chill. Travelers from the distant hills swarm the outpost, selling their wares and sometimes chickens and livestock. The traveler buys chickens and a rooster. He loads the wagon and prepares for his journey back home. But the day is spent, and the sun starts its travel into the horizon. He will wait until the morning and start for home when the sun rises. The morning arrives, the air is cool, and the sun lies hidden in the east. The horses do not need coaxing to begin their travel home. He now has a home to go to, and he is anxious to walk up on the porch, open the door, and see his family. There, however, is something missing. He asks, “Where shall I house the horses and chickens?” He then hears the voices of the barn and owl ringing from the hills ahead. The voices become louder as his journey ends. He now knows what lies ahead. Seemingly out of nowhere comes a white owl with brown-tinged feathers and a disc shape about his eyes and bill. He is clearly trying to get the attention of the traveler. He flies by and looks upon him; the unspoken word and his glance are understood. The owl continues on to snatch a field mouse for the evening meal. The journey has ended. The traveler relieves the burden of the harness and allows the horses to roll on the grasses and seek relief from the day’s journey. He enters the cabin with the chickens, to the delight of his wife and

children. They will stay here until the structure is built. He senses unfinished work ahead. He sits by the fire and fills his belly with rabbit stew that has cooked over the fire. The stew is quickly devoured, and his body yields to exhaustion. Two chatty little ones caress his face and plant kisses on him. They yearn for time to play with him, but not tonight, as Papa is tired and yearns for much-needed rest. Tomorrow will come, and a new day will start. With many hours of work, new dreams will become reality. The traveler is content now and is grateful for his independence and the need to be self-sufficient. God has brought the traveler and his family out of adverse conditions and into adverse conditions of another kind. The latter he can cope with; the former were rules set by a dictator. He seeks truth, freedom, and understanding. The mattress of grasses welcomes the tired traveler and curls around him in a comforting embrace. His family is relieved that Papa is home and is safe. They all rest this night and listen to a wolf howl and the screeching owl. The stream ripples along and soothes the cabin occupants to sleep. They wonder if the rooster will announce the sun as it peeks over the horizon. Another day will dawn and work will start again, all driven by the approaching winter. It seems that all is well. Outside, a north wind becomes aggressive and blows against the cabin wall, but the cabin does not yield. Dark clouds appear out of the north and travel forward with secrets within their billows. A gentle rain starts and then progresses into a steady rain that beats upon the cabin roof, only to be caught in a waiting rain barrel. Capture nature’s gifts and tomorrow will care for itself. As the night wears on, valley life sleeps, but soon a change will take place. It is time to gather food and fuel to lessen the wrath of winter. The geese signal the change, and it’s good that the traveler heeds this warning.

The Barn

I am a dream. I want structure too. I want to serve a purpose. I want to shelter from the cold winds and the driving snow and rain. I know the traveler and the owl hear my plea. The sky is showing signs of change. The breezes feel colder and are becoming strong winds. The traveler must act fast to form my sides, roof, and f loor. He wakes to a morning clear and cool. He hears the geese fly overhead, their honking sounds filling the valley. He sees flocks of birds prepare for migration to a warmer climate. He knows that there is little time to build a barn. How shall I start to create this dream? he wonders. How big shall it be? How can I build such a place with so little time before the snow starts to blanket this valley? I heard the owl in the tree yearn for such a place to live. It is necessity and security that drives the traveler on to accomplish what seems impossible. He goes into the woods that line the valley floor, exploring an area to cut the trees. He selects an area where he will till the soil in the spring. He starts with selecting a sturdy tree with a straight trunk to what will be the northwest corner. He follows with three more to place to form a rectangle. He spends days chopping trees and cutting branches. His faithful horses will pull the poles to where the barn will stand. Many logs are shaped to fit snug upon each other to form strong walls. The roof takes shape, with strong planks and shingles to shed the rain. Days go by, and soon it begins to take form; its purpose will be different from that of the cabin. Sturdy planks will form a door that will protect from formidable winds and unwanted guests. One side will house the horses and have mangers filled with sweet-smelling grasses. One area is reserved for the chickens. Nesting boxes line the wall, filled with grasses to cushion the eggs that will come forth. A roost will elevate the chickens from the floor, where they will be next to each other to conserve heat and provide warmth of all gathered here. Other life will come and inhabit this barn. A mouse will live beneath the floorboards. Doves will seek refuge from the cold and claim their rafter space. Chattering sparrows will also claim available space on the rafters. During his nocturnal flights, the owl has watched the barn rise from nothing and begin to

take form. He seeks an open window and enters. He notices a corner on the rafters that allows a full view below. He settles in and will let others know this space is taken. The interior is complete. The traveler introduces the chickens and rooster to their new space within the barn. It is good to be out of the crate and into open space, where they can now scratch and search through the grasses on the floor. The rooster surveys his kingdom and selects a place where the sun can be spotted as it raises. His call will awaken sleepy heads and insist that the day is to start. The horses are in a select place as well, with space to move and roll on the grassfilled floor. The harness hangs on the wall, ready for the next day of toil. A place has been selected for the cow that is yet to come. Just yards away, the stream will cure the thirsts of those that fill the barn. What is left to be done? The traveler surveys his handiwork and cannot believe so much was accomplished in such short time. He sees contentment. Outside, the clouds gather and wind blows and whistles around the corner. The barn is secure and warm. Again a dream becomes a reality. The owl on its perch above awaits the appearance of the mouse. His feathers surround his face like a disc and trap sounds of life below. It is dark inside now, with only the moon’s rays shining in the partly open window space. The traveler leaves the barn, exhausted but satisfied that what was thought to be an unattainable task became a reality. He walks to the cabin and enters a room of chattering children and a delightful scent of roasting meat. He sits at the table and satisfies his hunger with meat and fresh biscuits that melt in his mouth. The night draws on, and he knows that a cow must be found to provide milk and butter for his family. The days end with a sense of accomplishment and a grateful heart. This was mentioned in the prayer he said before they ate. So far, all is well. The day starts with the crow of the rooster. As expected, he is on time with his call as the sun peeks over the hill. The traveler pushes the covers to the side and hits the cold floor with his feet. He goes to the window and looks out at the cold winter morning, seeing a blanket of snow upon the ground. The grasses are coated with snow and are bent under the weight. The evergreen trees bend under the weight and form a shelter for all to seek refuge from the storm. The stream continues to flow, carrying small clumps of snow that hang on to the rocks that

form the bank. A few flakes fall lazily upon his coat. No two flakes are alike, but they fall on the blanket of snow and become one. The scene is of beauty and of an unspoiled world. The traveler, now dressed in warm clothing, pushes his way through deep snow to the barn. Drifts of snow form around the corners of the barn, and some snow blocks the door. He removes the snow and opens the door. He enters and sees the rooster and hens settled in, now scratching the grasses for seeds and insects. The horses neigh and contentedly munch on the grasses. The scene he witnesses is one of pleasure and warmth. He knows his labors were not in vain. The owl remains secluded and quiet. The few sacks of grain and seeds will have to be rationed until another trip to the outpost is made. The snowfall has brought more life into the cozy barn. Some critters find their way through cracks in the floor and walls. All are welcome to seek refuge in such a place.

The Family

W hat is in a name? A name identifies an individual. He or she responds when the name is called. A name places an individual in a class and a part of soc iety. Names have meanings. Some meanings date back to medieval times, while others differ amid ethnic and national diversity. As time es, a name is only a name, and the meaning loses its significance. We will now give names to our travelers. We will discover that names are given to the beast and to birds in the sky. We watch and learn from animals. We learn the way of the fish as they swim and fulfill their purpose in the stream. We find that coexistence is possible in the animal kingdom if there is respect for all. Let us name our family. Anviel is the father; his name means “God is my strength.” Lakina is the mother; her name means “God will develop.” Svend is the boy, and his name means “young man.” Astrid is the girl, and her name means “divine strength.” We can now proceed with our story and make it more personable. We will see if more names are necessary, depending on a birth or if an animal becomes part of this family. Our family represents different groups of people seeking a place of their own, free of dictatorial rule. They seek freedom, liberty, and the right to become selfreliant. Anviel is a hard worker and is tireless. He is strong, tall, and built to harness his dream. He seeks a quiet and unspoiled place where he can build a free life in a free nation. He lies awake at night planning his days. He respects the animals, and he will learn from them. He listens well to the owl, the eagle, the wolf, and the raven. Legends are part of the past and can be for the future. He is a man of faith and believes God is the Creator of the universe.

Lakina, wife of Anviel, complements him with her wit, strength, and determination. She is a caring mother and wife and takes care of the children, meeting their physical, mental, and spiritual needs. She educates from life experiences and books she brought. She teaches the need for self-reliance and independence. Astrid is small in stature but mature for her age. She works hard beside her mother, learning what hard work is and what it takes to accomplish one’s goal. She takes on the role of big sister and helps in caring for her brother. This is taxing at times, but persuasion sometimes works. Svend is big for his age. He wants to help his father, but he is too young now to do what is needed. Over time, he will be an able and willing partner to his father. He does not understand many things at his young age, but in time and with the wisdom of others, he will be guided in the right direction. He loves the outdoors and shows interest in building things. He is a friend to all animals. The family is complete. The tasks before them are many, but with the faith of the family and their willingness to work hard, they will accomplish them. Many surprises are ahead of them, and we will see how they deal with each one.

We look upon their faces and see what a part of life is like. We hide from what we do not want to see.

Sorrow and Tribulation

A s the night progresses, the wind continues to blow, whistling around the corner of the cabin. The occupants are warm and snug and the fireplace warm and inviting. All are content and without want. There is a feeble knock at the door. Anviel goes to the door and peers through a crack to see who is knocking at this hour. He cannot see anyone and thinks it is probably noises caused by the wind. He goes back to the fireplace and continues to clean his gun. Lakina is busy sewing tros for Svend and a dress for Astrid. A short time later, he hears the knock again. He opens the door and looks upon two little figures with tattered clothes and dirty faces. They have a look of sorrow and despair. He motions them to come in and sit by the fire. Immediately after seeing the two, Lakina goes to the larder and warms some porridge and broth. She feeds them slowly until they refuse more. They speak not a word, nor do they smile or cry. They continue to look into the fire as if mesmerized by the flame and warm light. Lakina removes their tattered coats and washes their faces. She wraps them in a quilt and lets them lie by the fire. It is a mystery as to how they appeared at their door, as there are no homes nearby. We look into their faces, see a part of life we do not like, and hide from it. Our times have created sorrow and tribulation, and we must find a remedy that will slow the progression and start turning to hope and a future. The children watch the two visitors and do not understand who they are. As Anviel and Lakina watch them, tears form in their eyes. It is sad to see, and we know that man has created this. Snuggled in their quilt, they sleep well. They dream of happiness, hope, and kindness of man. Anviel wonders what he will do in the morning, as they must have a home somewhere. Or perhaps they don’t. Morning comes with a start of a new day. Anviel opens the door and sees that snow has fallen; pure white covers the land. It hides what we do not wish to see. This valley they inhabit does not escape sorrow and tribulation.

When Anviel goes to check on the sleeping two, he does not find them. The quilt is empty, but the tattered coats remain. “Was this a dream?” he says. He sits on the edge of the bed and watches the sparks fly and float upward into the chimney. The light flickers and sends phantoms on the walls and ceiling. The wind continues to blow and spread the snow into drifts and mounds around the cabin. He ponders the meaning of the two who came last night. He leaves the cabin to check on the animals in the barn. He finds them safe and content. The horses neigh when he approaches, and the chickens continue their quest for food on the barn floor. The doves coo and bob their heads, wishing they did not have to leave their comfortable spots to obtain food outside. The occupants of the barn appear content, but Anviel is struck with the sight of the two visitors last night, and thoughts of sorrow and tribulation occupy his thoughts.

Self-Sufficiency

I lie awake thinking of years past, memories of heartache and a life seeped in futility. There were times when I felt like Sisyphus rolling the stone up the hill, only to have it roll down and leaving me the continued eternal task of rolling it back up. It was a life of absurdity. My life was one of no future, people directing me from the time I woke up until the time I put my head on the pillow at n ight. A wave of cold encomes me like a frigid December wind. Inner feelings of cold and obscurity make it hard to feel warmth from within. More blankets of time do not comfort. I know I must obtain a life that is away from what I am now a part of. Sometimes I just want to give up. This would be my escape from the futile feeling; however, my responsibility of a family will take priority over my own feelings. I do feel guilty of self-indulgence. I clearly a recent morning, waking up in a state of horror, not realizing what would happen next. I felt helpless and frightened. There was no one to give me comfort. Days ed, and life seemed to lack meaning. Others ruled my life, and I had to follow the dictates of a ruler. My wife and children depended on me to make a decision for the future. We must follow the winding road through a time of uncertainty to a future in some certainty. We look into the future with great aspirations for renewal and hope. The thought of being free awakens the desire of a man. The master of the parish is approached and our plans revealed. He disregards our plans as absurd and says that we do not deserve freedom but have a duty to stay and work for the parish and meet the parish’s needs. This has dashed our hopes of leaving but not our will to leave. It is evident that we need to act on our will and leave some night. I know that the economic situation of the parish is desperate and that many people are now poor and go hungry. It is doubtful that they will pursue us if we leave. The act of reliance has made the lives of people dependent, and this has fostered the desire to be unproductive. This is not what I want for my family or myself. Nights , and we put our plan into action. Late at night, we prepare the wagon

with a false bottom to secure implements that will be needed when we arrive at our destination. Grain seed is sealed in tins to prevent rodent and insect infestation. A need to be self-sufficient overpowers us, and we become convinced that the risk is well worth it. Then one night we steal away in the darkness. Only the stars can guide us and watch over us. The children were taken from their warm beds and put into the wagon. This will be their home and security for an unknown length of time. The wagon, pulled by two great horses, rambles down the path through the sleeping village. The horses are muzzled to prevent any noise that will wake the sleeping villagers. The road ahead meets them in the dark night, and they travel on. The wagon moves slowly through the night. Anviel wonders if they will send out a search party to bring them back. He dismisses that thought and looks into the dark night and what they may face in their future. Each day is met with doubt and frustration. Storms and strong winds with heavy showers destroy the comfort, at least temporarily. When the sun comes out from under the clouds, it renews their spirits. The fear quickly decreases, until the next time. The children become restless and have a need to run and play. As the sun starts to set one evening, the travelers look for a place with water and trees. One such evening they follow a meandering stream lined with trees that shade part of the flowing stream. They stop and set up camp for the night. The children run and chase butterflies in the tall grasses. They are delighted to run wild, laughing and not fearing a thing. They catch fish using woven grass traps. Soon they have several fish, and Lakina prepares to cook them over the fire. The smell of frying fish and cooking beans makes them hungry, and they settle down by the fire to eat and enjoy. They observe geese, ducks, and many animals that call this stream their home. After they have eaten, the children are put to bed in their all-too-familiar wagon. They fall asleep without a word of resentment. Anviel and Lakina sit by the fire and watch the sparks pop and fly into the air. The insects are drawn to the fire and buzz at the couple without mercy until they too seek shelter. Their thoughts consist of what they will face tomorrow. Are they ready for the next challenge that arises? Before leaving, they spot an owl ever so quietly flying around, ready to pounce on an unsuspecting mouse. The owl’s quiet flight stirs their inner cores. It is unknown at this time as to why. Reflections of times past and the life left behind are compared with today. The

time es from the beginning to now. I have accomplished much, and my cabin will be alive in a new land.

“When the owl calls your name, you will meet death. Sometimes we take life for granted and do not see what is happening before our eyes.”

The Owl Called My Name

T he family endures day after day, year after year. They struggle some years, and some years they are blessed with a bountiful harvest. There is a mixture of good years and bad years and happiness and heartache. But the family re the past vividly and still seeks a better life, regardless of what may happen. The children grow up and become individuals with distinct personalities. They intend to exercise their independence as time goes along, and we will find out how this changes the tranquility of this family. The appearance from the outside is deceiving; within holds the real mea ning. The old mailboxes take on a new look, and more are added. It shows that more people want to seek new lives and are willing to face uncertainty. A local newspaper updates the settler about local and sometimes national news. They hear of great hardships of many people as they leave their homes across the sea and spend many days and weeks on ships. Their destination is uncertain and the ride difficult, but they will seek their dreams regardless of consequences. Astrid has written to the newspaper. She has always wanted to write, and as a youngster, she wrote many stories and poems. She would let her thoughts take flight and imagine many things as she watched the setting sun, the birds as they flew, and the antics of their pet wolf. The editor has read her letter and now wants to talk to her regarding a job. With this in mind, Astrid must now find an ideal time to break the news to her parents. One evening she approaches her parents with the news. This is a shock, but they listen to what Astrid has to say. Finally, Anviel says, “Astrid, have you thought this out? Do you know that when you leave, it is going to be hard to come back?” Astrid is aware but feels this is what she must do. Anviel and Lakina somewhat reluctantly agree. She then prepares for the departure. The day arrives, and she must be at the train station by three in the afternoon. They leave home and travel the winding road up the hill to the newly established town. The road they have traveled before seems different now for reasons not known. When the train arrives, she turns to give her parents kisses and hugs, telling them not to worry. Anviel and Lakina are shaken by this change but must

go forward without any doubt. They wonder if they will see Astrid again. Lakina feels frightened and is aware that there is more to her discomfort then Astrid leaving. She keeps all these things hidden within. They return to the cabin and enter. The still of the inner space is haunting. Svend is out in the barn tending the animals and hears them but does not them, as they need to be alone at this time. Anviel and Lakina wonder when their boy will approach them with the same message about leaving home. They have instilled the necessity of self-reliance in both; however, what transpired that day has a sting that hurts deep inside. Time es, and Astrid’s absence is accepted. Astrid now works at the newspaper and is accepted in a formerly male-dominated field. She writes letters frequently and lets them know she is well and enjoying her work. One night there’s a noise from the woods. Anviel opens the cabin door and listens intently. Lakina comes to the door, and a cold chill encomes her. She draws the shawl closer to her bosom. Over the past few months, she has felt exhausted and lacked energy. Her appetite is poor, and she is now showing signs of weight loss. She has not shared this with her husband in fear of alarming him. One night shortly after the call in the night, Lakina says to her husband, “Anviel, you mentioned many years ago that when the owl calls your name, you will die.” Anviel, taken by surprise, looks into her eyes. It is then that he notices the marked change in his wife. He is ashamed that he had not noticed this before. He draws Lakina close to him and rubs her back in order to comfort her. He tries to offer words of comfort, but they do not come out the way he wants. He stands there unable to absorb all of what he has seen and the painful words from his wife. Sometimes we take life for granted and do not see what is happening before our eyes. Maybe this is a form of denial as to what is obvious or a refusal to believe that something like that could actually happen to people we love. Time es, and within a month, Lakina becomes thinner and is unable to do any work. It is impossible to go to a doctor, as there is not one within forty miles and Lakina refuses to see one. She stays in bed and is unable to eat. She lies there gazing into space, with little or no expression. Soon she sleeps much of the time and fades in and out, becoming more confused. The neighbor woman is unable to get nourishment into her because she refuses. Anviel knows what he must do. At night when everyone is asleep, he goes to the barn and prepares

planks to form a coffin for her. He weeps continually and is unable to grasp the situation. Svend enters the cabin and finds his dad at her bedside. Anviel tells Svend that the end is near. Lakina opens her eyes and takes notice of Anviel and Svend at her side. She smiles and says in a weak voice, “I heard the owl call my name.” The night continues, and waiting is torture to those remaining. You can hear the howl of the wolf and the screech of the owl echoing in the valley. The wind is calm, and the moon is bright. The Milky Way is vivid and welcomes one to travel the path to eternity. It is not long until Lakina breathes no more. Tears flow, and they are in disbelief. A part of their world is gone forever and cannot be replaced. Time ushers in changes, changes that we at times refuse to believe and are unwilling to prepare for. The owl will call your name at any time. Anviel prepares the planks and forms a coffin. He lines the sides and bottom with a quilt of her legacy. He places her body in the coffin and seals the lid. They carry it to a place on a small hill that overlooks a small lake. The coffin is lowered, and dirt fills the space to the top. A cross marker is driven in the ground to mark the spot. The memory will last, but the body will return to dust. The place holds a special meaning, as they both spent time at this special place and recalled a past life. Anviel and Svend return to an empty cabin. The cabin feels lonely. How can they continue when change has altered their plan? Svend walks around the cabin trying to find inner peace and a way to convey his intentions to his dad. This is not the time, and he will have to wait for the right time and opportunity to break the news to his dad. Anviel walks outside and sits by the stream wherein flows clear springwater that has no end. The melting snow on the high hills continues to feed the stream of life and nourish the earth eternal. Anviel must now prepare for what he fears will flow from the tongue of Svend. Tears fall, and he is on an emotional path of tears, knowing he cannot stumble on the bumps along this road. Anviel does not have the ambition and strength of his youth. His energy has decreased, and he now has lost his sight. How quickly life ebbs away, with changes that we cannot control taking place. The neighbors have heard and have come to offer condolences. They bring food

and offer nourishment to heal his mental state. Anviel is a private man and does not impose himself upon others. This perhaps is not a wise, his neighbors can offer only shallow comfort to a man who wishes none. The neighbors have made sure that his physical needs have been taken care of, but the mental well-being will require a higher power. Anviel, in a time of despair, cries out to the owl who called her name, angry about what has happened. His cry is heard, but like life itself, he continues to live until the owl calls again. Some days , and Svend has come to grips with his decision to leave. He feels that it is time to break the news to his father. He goes to bed one night, and sleep does not come. So many things have happened, and he is trying to process them. The moon casts comforting rays through the window, and Svend seeks escape from unwanted thoughts. The breeze is warm and flows across his face to comfort him; the scent of pine trees fills his senses. The birds have found respite in the trees, ready for the night. They are safe from the circling hawk. The noise of crickets is heard in the distance, and the never-ending water falls over the rocks that line the stream. The redwing black bird makes its last flight for insects before settling for the night. Svend realizes the valley is in harmony. It will be up to him to seek harmony in his soul. Anviel seeks solace in his valley. It is a place of memories and peace. It is a place where a young family found relief from oppression. It was a place where man could live in harmony with his surroundings. He did not want to give this up, not just now. A haunting aura encomed him when Svend was near. He did not want to accept the words that would come from his mouth. He has prayed much over time and has asked for strength to endure what is to come. He also knows the owl will call his name, but he does not know when. One evening after Svend and his father finished their chores, they walked to the stream and peered into the running water. A leaf falls, and the gentle stream carries the leaf over the tumbling water until it is out of sight. It is a reflection of life. It is a future for humankind. We too will fall and be carried away and out of sight. But new leaves will form, and new life will abound in the valley he called his home. As they sit there, Svend turns to his dad and tells him of his dream of being a builder and the need to be on his own. He wants to seek a life that will bring him happiness and prove to himself that with hard work and faith, he too can accomplish great things. He had heard this many times from his father. He

speaks slowly and with great conviction about his plans for the future. Anviel listens with great interest, at the same time envying his youth. When Svend finishes, Anviel turns to his son and says, “Son, I knew this day would come, and I knew that when Astrid sought her dream, you too would seek yours. I will be lonely, but I understand that this valley does not hold your dream. You must seek it wherever it leads you and prepare for challenges. You must always that people will doubt you, speak negative about your plans. Are you ready to fight for what you want and what you believe?” Svend assures his father that what he has observed in his dad, he will carry over in his life. A few days later, they both wake early, knowing today is the day that he will leave and that it will not be the same in that cabin. They hitch the horses to the wagon and again follow the winding road up the hill to the train station. They speak not a word but are heavy in their thoughts of today and into the future. Life in the valley does carry uncertainty and anxiety. Neither of them shows emotion for fear of caving into feelings of remorse and sadness. Anviel has come to grips with his emotions and of reality, and he now knows that parting is painful but necessary. They hug as the train arrives at the station, and as the train leaves, they each wave until the train is out of sight. When Anviel reaches home, he enters the cabin. The cabin is empty of life, only the ghosts of the past inhabiting it. He takes a walk outside to breathe the fresh air and soak up the memories of the past. He finds some comfort in knowing that this valley has provided all his needs and that his Creator has kept him on the right path. He walks down the path to the barn, then to the garden spot that is now full of weeds and looks abandoned. He sees the fruit trees that provided fresh fruit and jams. He re the fruitful harvest the garden has provided. The cave was a place to store the harvest to provide for the winter, and it is now nearly empty. He asks himself what they have done to ready for winter. The cabin continues to stand and now must adjust to change. “In joy, I stood and shared joy. In sorrow, I stood and shared sorrow.” I felt comfort in providing for my family. Now the changes of time fill my inner walls and I shall not feel the warmth and understanding of my family. What will happen to me? What will happen to the barn and the smokehouse that Svend built? The valley will always be here. The trees will eventually wither and die, but new seed will bring new life. The stream will continue to flow. The birds and other animals will continue

to thrive. The efforts of man’s building will deteriorate and return to dust. We must wait and hope for a renewal of a new family that travels the winding road. Death is not a stranger to Anviel. He has witnessed the death of their pet wolf, a team of hardworking horses, chickens, and pigs; and now his wife and children have gone. He fears for his children and prays for their safety. This is a reminder of his own decision to leave, not to mention how he felt his decision was the right one. How fast time has gone by, and now yesterday is not that far away. Anviel tries his best to continue on, but his strength is ebbing from him. The neighbors sense the deterioration and offer him a place with them. He refuses and wants to stay within his memories. He is a proud man and cannot accept his fate. His health is not getting any better, just worse, and he lacks the will to continue. He knows that winter has arrived and that his life is ending. He now neglects his chores and lingers in bed until late in the day. Depression has taken hold, and he seeks a new light. The neighbors come daily to check on him and offer help. They tend to the animals and see that they are well fed and cared for. They also know that when Anviel dies, they must take the animals as their own. It is not long until he lacks the strength to get out of bed, and he has no appetite for food or drink. His sight is failing, but his hearing is acute. The neighbors take turns staying with him day and night. He slips into a deeper sleep each day and is less responsive. Then one night he awakens as if he has new energy. He listens and now hears the owl call his name. He slips away into eternity. The neighbors surround him and ire a man of such integrity and wit. They must now ready him for his place in the ground at a very special place, next to Lakina. They will remain until they are called. The cry of the wolf is heard, the night is still, the moon is full, and the valley now sleeps. The cabin and the barn weep.

My life is not ready for the end, as I feel I just began. I am from the woods that surround me. I am from the stream that flows beside me.

The Empty Cabin

D eath hurts. It is so final. My inner space is empty and quiet. I do not hear the voices of children. I do not hear the plans of adults. I do not smell the cooking stew and the roasting meat. I feel that humans may have lost his way and haven’t prepared for the future. I am alone, and it frightens me. I a knock at the door one night. I how Anviel opened the door to see a boy and girl with dirty faces and dressed in rags. Their faces did not show joy, only sadness and neglect. They washed them, wrapped them in a warm quilt, and let them warm by the fire. I that they left mysteriously, just as they appeared. Life for mortals is tragic in one sense and full of adventure in another. Joy is there, but it needs to be sought. Sorrow and tribulation surround us and sadly are created by humankind. Humans must find a way to resolve this. I can provide shelter from the storms that flow on my sides, but I cannot shelter the storms within their be ings. I wait and feel my deterioration. I have no one to secure me or make me whole again. Without the help of man, I cannot survive. There is a beginning and an end. I do not want to see the end. I want to live as before. I am not ready to die, for I feel I have just begun. But take a close look and you will see that the storms of time have broken my sides, roof, and door. I lack purpose. I wait for a new beginning. I decades ago, when I finally became a reality. I came from the woods that surround me. I am from the stream that flows beside me. I have given people shelter from the cold and safety from the unknown that surrounds me. Despair and ignorance continue to haunt humankind. People are weak and fall prey to opposing factors that face them. I must survive, and I must have faith in the future. Until the time of resurrection, I will stand steadfast in my belief. I shall rise again. The valley continues and weathers the storms as before. What has been made by man withers and dies. The birds fly in the sky, and animals walk the valley floor as their ancestors did. The earth is orderly. Astrid is distant from her life in this valley. New life and a future put the past in

memory. You cannot go back to the beginning and expect that nothing has changed. Change is necessary to life. Svend has had challenges in the building trade. He celebrates the successes and learns from the failures. He does not have interest in his past life in this valley and has said that the past remains in the past. We have to ask ourselves if indeed we can live without knowing the past. Weeds and grasses grow on the graves. The markers show wear and fade in the sun. We are on Earth but just ing through. The moon is full, and one can hear the mournful howl of a wolf. The night is quiet, and the Milky Way is like a path to eternity. A change could be coming.

Back to Life

D ecades and things change by natural selection and by events that affect ch ange. To weather the storms of time, it is necessary to prepare for this change. We as humans need to resurface the exterior shell and renew the inner being. Seeking lives through faith in the Creator will help in weathering the storms. The exterior must remain real, not just a facade. Approaching the cabin and the barn, one would observe deterioration. Without care, the exterior erodes until the form collapses and is no more. The trees that line this valley grow onward and upward. They wither in time, and forces of nature shake the exterior. Some fall to the ax of the builder. Some fall from storms and age. A dying tree becomes food and shelter to insects that harbor within. Just as we do, trees become part of the earth over time. Days, weeks, and years . After a decade es, my walls and roof start to sag. I can no longer stand the erosion of time. I wonder if there is hope in the future for me. When I finally notice the approaching family as they move slowly toward me, I see that they look tired, yet their faces show hope and a sense of peace. I feel a heavy boot upon my porch, what is left of it. I am thrilled at the prospect of a renewed life. He enters through the doorway, pushing aside the leaning door. He stands looking around my interior. He notices the three-legged table and the chair that was ing it. He looks into the fireplace and strokes the mantel with tenderness. He smiles as he surveys the view from the window, and I know he sees hope in a future for me. The exterior can be fixed and shelter people from storms of time. He returns to the wagon, and the night becomes still. The next morning is sunny and warm. The dew bathed the valley, and all living things sparkle with new hope. I hear children sing and see them dance. I feel the soft touch of a woman as she smiles when entering. I hear something that I have yearned to hear for many years: “With a lot of repair and hard work, we will

restore this cabin to what it was.” My long wait has ended, and happiness will again fill my void. There is something familiar about this new family; they sound and look familiar. I wonder what it is that makes me feel good. A new family has arrived, and hope is here. I will let the new family take over, and I will stand tall and wait for my renewal. Wait—is this a new family? The second family follows the path of those who went before. New corner poles are set, with new sides taking form. The tools of the new family are much improved and the restoration time much less. The table and chairs are repaired, and new shelves are set. New poles my sides and roof. Chipped wood to form shingles on my roof will shed the rain. The chimney is repaired and now stands ready to welcome smoke, a sign of life within. The window now has glass, and one can see into the hills and into infinity. The door hangs straight and opens to those who wish communion with others. The vermin that made the tumbledown cabin their home must now seek refuge elsewhere. The barn feels the strong hand of the traveler and takes form. It welcomes horses, chickens, and a rooster. The latter peck and scratch in the dry grasses to find seeds and insects. The roost is repaired and ready for the hens. Nesting boxes are repaired and will find use soon. The doves coo in contentment as they give approval of the renovation. The owl is secure and safe within the walls of the repaired barn. A fence post awaits her presence to observe the life she seeks. The pet dog has found a place by the fire, and it is understood that she does not want to be disturbed unless food is in the offering. The family has moved all belongings into the cabin. It looks and feels like home. Perhaps the traveler has been here before. The cabin’s wish is fulfilled. The owl is quiet this night. The stream continues to flow. The insects continue to skate on the water surface. The fish start their night feeding and create ripples that become larger and then disappear. The cluster of cattails provides a hiding place for the fish at night. The eagle flies and stills the night. The hawk circles in hope for a meal he may spot below. The elk and deer continue to graze in the pastures. The wolf seeks the full moon to howl into the night. The valley once again has accepted humans occupying this valley, and they are welcome. Experience has indicated that there is respect for all and it feels right.

There is a feeling of calm and tranquility. At least it seems so. The setting sun sends a bright red glow across the valley and casts shadows on the surrounding hills. The night is clear, and the twinkling stars provide a symphony of light. The moon rises from the east and feeds upon the remaining sunlight. The cast of purple is upon the earth this eventide. It is quiet this evening; only an occasional cackle from the pheasant is heard. Sleep comes, and tomorrow will arrive on time; the rooster will not allow sleepyheads. What seems right is not always right. Peace and contentment can be hidden away, and despair and ignorance will appear again. There is more to be done. Within the cabin, the children are given a meal of warm milk and bread. They snuggle deep into their bed and pull the warm quilt around them. The sandman enters. The lamps are dimmed, and only the rays of the moon allow sight. The valley and those who reside there sleep. We notice that the new family does not have a name. I recall that in the beginning, there was a family with a boy and girl. That family built this cabin and barn and tilled the soil. We recall that the children grew up and left home in pursuit of their dreams. As we recall, Astrid became a news reporter and moved away. She had no desire to return to this valley. We also recall that Svend, a man handy with a hammer, left home as well and went into the building business. What happened to them? The new family has a father; we call him Svend. He has a wife; we call her Anne. They have a boy and girl. Their names are Anviel and Lakina. Svend has come back home to live in this valley of his dreams. His wife is happy to be in this valley and has heard much about living there. The cabin is happy to experience life within once again. One evening there is a knock at the door. Svend opens the door to welcome Astrid and her husband, Bernt. They have two girls: Rebecca and Christine. They arrived to welcome Svend and his family to the valley. They plan a reunion in a place they once called their home. They venture to the hillside where two faded crosses mark the place where their parents lie. They walk, talk, and the days of their youth, when they watched the building of the cabin. They talk about the determination of the father and mother who kept their mental houses in order. They have much to

share with their children as they walk again where they walked before. The cabin and the barn have had a rebirth, and they seek now to serve the new family. The fruits of labor will be seen in days to come. Their time in the cabin that night is a joyful time; thinking of yesterday is healing. The owl is silent.

Life is like a camera. Focus on what is important, capture the good times, develop from the negatives, and if things don’t work out, take another shot. -—Anonymous

What Is Life?

L ife takes on many forms. It can be seen as young and old. It is beautiful trees reaching for the heavens and spreading branches to form a canopy. The trees on the hill provide a home for animals and those who seek re fuge. We see life as a circle. We are born helpless and need nurturing. We grow up and attempt to learn lessons on life and living. The lessons are hard, and we do not always agree or conform. We must arrive at a decision that is right and will produce a being of worth. The salmon is born in a streambed, and the stream runs out to sea. The salmon grows and senses that it must go back to the sea. When salmons’ bellies are full of ripening eggs, they use all their strength and will to swim against the ocean current into the stream from where they came. When they arrive, they deposit the eggs in the riverbed and seek a quiet place to die. The cycle of this life ends but is renewed with the hatching of eggs, when the cycle starts again. We through the four seasons, from spring to winter. It is on this journey that we form a sense of value and gain wisdom to live by. There are many bumps and detours along the way, and we must meet them with a strong will that takes over our total mental health. It is shelter from the storm of despair and ignorance. We travel on through the night.

The Last Chapter

L ife is a book with many chapters. The first chapter is the beginning of a journey into what lies ahead. The joy and wonder of living are sought, but not always so, as tragedy is within the chapters that are ahead of us. We do not know what is to follow, and it is good that we do not know what lies in chapters to come. We read in the beginning that time is endless and that our time on earth has an end. Will you live for sole ownership or live so others may benefit from your offerings? Do you have a facade hiding the real you? Peeling away the layers exposes the core. Is the core we see firm and healthy or soft and weak? Chapters are read, and life continues. We experience many emotions and trials that can tax our very beings. The chapters will show how we used each experience to grow or perhaps deny existence. The trials in life will not go away but may lie dormant only to be resurrected again. We reach the middle chapters and look upon what we read or how we experienced events, evaluating whether we used them in a positive way. Selfreliance can identify weaknesses and strengths. We continue through chapters that lead to an end. Doubt and regret can surface. When we look back, what comes to mind is this: “If I had it to do over, I would do things differently.” Chapters flow by, and we slow down. The calendar on the wall and the mirror do not lie. We see the exterior and note the change, but the inner core has not changed. We continue to value life and the fellowship of others. We arrive at the final chapter. What a journey it has been. We have seen the beauty of the landscape as we walked the path forward. We watched the cabin and the barn take form. We watched the cool clear stream of life giving water to satisfy our thirsts. We have witnessed the circle of life in this valley. We have seen the animals that inhabit the earth and the birds that soar in the sky live in harmony, and we will eventually hear the owl call our name.

May all those that dwell on Earth rest well in the hands of our Creator.

Epilogue

M any travelers have arrived in America after leaving their homes across the sea. Their voyages have been difficult, and many have died or become ill. There were desires to escape oppression and find lives of freedom to pursue dreams, even if this meant journeys filled with tra gedy. In many cases when they left their homelands, they did not look back and many did not return. It was the sacrifices people made and their willingness to succeed and be self-reliant that made America a great nation. We are travelers, going down the road and into the darkness of uncertainty. We do not always succeed, but we are given the chance to try to better our lives. One family follows another down the road and sees success and failure. We see remnants of life and see that ignorance and despair continue to follow us and become part of us. Today we travel down the same road, but we see another life that has developed over the years. The road we travel is littered with materialism, greed, and lack of trust. We have reached a time where we need a renaissance. We have been swept up in things that die. We ask ourselves if there is a way we can find renewal. We can only find the answer in God.

And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given unto you; Seek, and you shall find; Knock, and it shall be opened to you. -Luke 11:9 KJV