It had been years since I had been to the house. The tires of my truck crunched while compacting the snow on the almost invisible dirt driveway. Seeing this place filled my mind with memories. I had spent the summers working for Mr. and Mrs. Smith while I was in high school. The work was hard but the Smiths also were such sweet people. They treated me like I was their son. A smile covered my face when I remembered the time I scared my little brother the first time he had to use the outhouse (See SNAKES). Yes, this old place held a lot of memories. It was here that I learned strong work ethics, the importance of Sunday worship, that reading spurred the imagination so much better than television, and that a cup of coffee and good conversation was the best way to end dinner.
So, I was surprised when I received the message from a lawyer. His voice sounded urgent so I called him back immediately. He explained that Mr. Smith had passed away about five years earlier and Mrs. Smith had to be moved into a state-operated nursing home. Before Mr. Smith had died, they had put all their meager assets in a trust. Now that Mrs. Smith had passed away, the remaining assets in the trust were to come to me. All that was left was about five acres of land and the old house. Everything else had been sold off to provide for Mrs. Smith’s care.
I was shocked. I knew that the Smiths had no children but I would have never expected that they would leave their house to me. I made an appointment to sit down with the lawyer and sign the necessary paperwork. So today, for the first time in so many years, I was once again driving down their driveway. I almost expected to see them come running out to welcome me as I smelled the scent of fresh-baked apple pie escaping from the open kitchen window.
I shut the engine off and just looked at the old homestead. All of the windows had been broken and the door was standing open as if to welcome the snow. A stray cat suddenly emerged and ran up the rise to hide behind the outhouse. I could just imagine all the work that needed to be done but hard work was always expected at this place. I grabbed my toolbox from the passenger seat and exited the truck. I walked to the open door and took a quick look around. “First things first,” I could hear Mr. Smith saying as I set the toolbox on the floor.
I just need to unload the plywood so I can button this place up and prevent any more damage to the inside. Then, I can see what I have to do to put this house back into a livable condition.
I was speaking to myself but hearing my voice fill the room reminded me of sitting at the end of the day and planning the next day’s schedule with Mr. Smith. And that was when it hit me. Not only would I fix this place up, but this was where I needed to settle…because this was more than a house, this was a home.
Len, your story brought tears to my eyes and a brief prayer lifting up the Smiths. Not surprised to read your bio and see you’re in the ministry. Your words evoke gratitude and prayer. Good for any time; spot on for such a time as this.
Thanks!
blessings,
Cynthia
Cynthia,
Thank you so much for your kind words. I hope you take the time to read the story “Snakes” that was linked in this story. It will make you smile. 😊
Len
Here’s the story “Snakes” Len mentioned, Cynthia – a smile is beckoning: https://www.bizcatalyst360.com/snakes/
I felt as though I was there in the driveway with you Len. How loving of the Smith’s to remember you in such a way and what a wonderful labor of love it will be as you fix the place up. Enjoy your new home!
Mike – Thanks. This is a story based on one important fact – I did spend time working on a farm with few creature comforts during summer months. The story “Snakes” referenced really happened – you will like that one.
I see a story of gratitude towards someone who, even in his youth, was serious, affectionate, respectful of people and his commitment.
Thanks, Aldo, for your kind words.
As always you meet my expectations and amaze me with the how you bring the reader into the story. I love this as I do all of your work. You have such a comfortable way in tying emotion to the heart and bringing the conclusion into a place of peace and safety. Very nice……. Now write more
Johnny – I am so touched by your kind words – especially since you are an amazing writer in your own right. Thank you for your encouragement.
So touching, Len wonderfully imparting the magic of nest building wrapped in roots that intertwine past, present and future
Thank you, Noemi, for you kind words and comments.
This is such a great story, Len. Themes of love, commitment, honoring the past and work ethic all whisper softly from the corners. And, you’ve left this reader in suspense waiting to learn about the lessons of rebuilding and how the love from that house was perpetuated by future inhabitants. Write on, my friend!
Thanks, Christine. Boy, you have given me so many ideas on where to go next with this “saga”.
Len, you definitely touched my heart with this story. The scenes you painted with your words are so vivid to the point where I could see the Smith’s, the house, and of course you. Great writing, Len.
Thanks, Joel. Having a talented writer like you comment on my story in such a kind way means so much.
My pleasure as always, Len. Thank you for your very kind words.
Joel – You are most welcome.
I love this Len. You are such a great storyteller. I truly enjoy reading your stories
Thanks, Larry, and thank you for the inspiration by sending a picture.
I use imagery to inspire words also. It really helps me too. I am glad it sparked a story.
The stories are in the visions – I like that. Thanks.