When we were growing up on Walton's Mountain...
Sundays were very special.
Six days a week, overalls and sneakers...
were the family uniform.
But on the seventh day we got out
our Sunday-go-to-meeting best...
shined and scrubbed and brushed and polished.
Getting ready to go to church...
was as much of a ritual as the services...
once we got there.
I remember one February Sunday
that began like any other...
but ended in the gravest crisis our family ever faced.
A crisis that threatened the sheltered life...
we'd taken for granted...
and tested our belief in God's mercy.
You can get anything to grow, can't you, Mama?
Aren't they lovely?
So nice to see them inside, green and blooming...
when it's winter outside.
-They're just lovely, Mama. -This bug thinks so, too.
Jim-Bob, you get that bug away from me.
-It's just a little bug. -Get it away!
Jim-Bob, leave Erin alone.
It's nice, Jason.
-You really like it? -Mm-hmm.
Shouldn't we be going?
Can't abide people who straggle in late.
But that way everybody gets to see the new hat or the new coat.
Turning the Lord's worship into a style show?
Libby, you look flushed. It's winter aches and pains.
It's this weather. Sometimes it seems...
spring will just never get here.
Jason, that's not exactly what I'd call Sunday music.
Now, that's more like it.
I liked the other one better.
What do you call it?
I don't know. I haven't named it yet.
You mean you just made that up?
Don't I just have the most talented children?
You sound just like daddy.
-Will you get your boots on? -Yes, mother.
-Come go with us. -Maybe next week, honey.
You've said that every Sunday since I married you.
And you keep trying.
-It'll do you the world of good. -Raise your spirits.
If my spirits got higher, they'd go right through the roof.
-We'll pray for you, Daddy. -You do that, honey.
Personally I go mostly for the music.
and the singing.
* Oh let's be the tailabine
I keep all that music pent up inside...
go to church and let it come forth. Gives me pleasure.
Anything that gives a man my age enjoyment...
is something to be encouraged.
You can even make going to church sound wicked.
That's one way of bringing in the sinners.
* Bringing in the sinners bringing in the sinners *
* We could come rejoice..
Hurry up everybody. The truck's ready.
Mary Ellen!
It's such a pleasure to see you in a dress.
You look real nice.
I feel like a scarecrow.
You're a very attractive young woman
if you'd only cooperate with nature a little.
What's being your back?
Mary Ellen, you are not taking a baseball mitt to church.
-But, Mama, if G.W. wants to-- -No.
My best to the reverend.
Hurry along.
-I've got my neck warmer here. -Come along, Livie.
Hello, sir. It's always a pleasure to see you.
I'm pleased you all could come worship with us this morning.
-Fine service, Reverend. -Thank you, ma'am.
-I sure enjoyed your sermon. -Thank you, Mr. Walton.
Come have dinner with us, real soon.
Thank you.
-Bye, Reverend. -Bye.
Wasn't that a comforting sermon?
Splendid. He was just splendid.
How would you know? You slept through the whole thing.
I was not asleep.
Your eyes were closed and your mouth was open.
I was meditating.
Mama, Ben got another star for saying Bible verses.
"Happy is the man who finds wisdom...
and the man who gets understanding.
"The gain of it is better than silver...
its profits are better than gold."
It looks to me like we could have a young minister...
in the Walton family.
Two ministers, Mama. I'm going to be a preacher, too.
Don't laugh.
No, I think that's a lovely ambition.
Mama, are you alright? What's the matter?
You turn your ankle?
My knee just seemed to give out.
-Better come back to the church. -I'll be alright.
Mama, can I walk home with G.W.? -If you like.
-We'll come with her. -You will not.
-Why not? -I'll explain in a few years.
In a few years you won't have to.
It feels like my legs suddenly don't have any strength in them.
Sounds like you're fighting the grippe.
We'll get you home in a hurry.
Alright?
Mary Ellen, I've got to ask you something.
Go ahead and ask.
Promise you won't say no right off?
You want to borrow my baseball mitt?
Eighth grade's gonna have a spring dance.
I know that.
-Well, do you wanna go with me? -No.
I asked you not to say no right off.
-I can't dance. -Neither can I.
So what are we gonna do, sit around looking dumb?
-People can learn how to dance. -Not me.
Won't you think about it?
Alright. But I'm not going to change my mind.
We're gonna get you right into bed.
Here they come right now.
-Hey, look who's here. -Oh, good morning.
-Good morning. -Good morning.
We were on our way home from church.
I didn't see you at church.
No. Sister and I are members of the Episcopal Congregation.
The Baldwins have always been of that persuasion.
Papa was a deacon.
Anyway, we were passing so close by...
we just had to stop and pay our respects.
That was very thoughtful of you.
Somehow the idea of going home to face another quiet Sunday...
was not appealing.
-Children, take off your boots. -Before you catch a cold.
I don't know. Put it back there.
I'm so glad we stopped.
I'll treasure the memory of you all in your Sunday best.
It's such a treat.
Liv, look, the ladies brought you along a little present.
Nothing very extravagant.
Mamie's mint jelly. It's delicious with lamb.
Thank you.
-Livie, you alright? -No, she isn't.
She's feeling poorly.
Oh, dear! And here we are, chattering away.
What is it, honey?
Grandma says it's the grip.
Sister, we must be going.
I'm sorry to spoil your visit, ladies.
You take care of yourself, dear.
Thank you for the tea and hospitality.
-Thank you, John. -Come back soon.
I'll see the ladies to the car.
Bathe your temples with lilac water, dear.
There's nothing more soothing.
-Thank you. -Good-bye.
Liv, you look feverish. Did this come over you in church?
No woke up this morning with a backache and a stiff neck.
Gotta chill, you shouldn't have gone out this morning.
Don't fuss. An afternoon in bed and I'll be good as new.
I'll fix you some hot chamomile tea. Get yourself to bed.
What are we gonna do with this dab of mint jelly?
Save it. Maybe next time the ladies will bring us some lamb.
Come on, now, let's get you upstairs.
Liv, what is it?
I don't know. My legs just....
I feel so strange all of a sudden.
Honey, come on, I'll take you up.
-Be sure you save the corn silk. -I am, Jason. I am.
Shelling corn is almost as fun as popping it.
Or eating it.
John-Boy, do you know how to dance?
-Some, yeah. -How much is some?
I guess I know enough to keep from stumbling over...
a girl's feet once the music starts.
Don't you feel like a fool, hippity-hopping around...
while everybody's watching?
Like a fool?
Yeah, I guess sometimes I feel a little foolish.
Then why do you do it?
Feeling foolish can be fun.
John-boy.
Your daddy wants you to fetch Doc Vance right away.
Is mama worse?
Will you just tell him that
that she's talking out of her head...
and that she can't seem to move her legs?
-Can't move her legs? -Will you just tell him that?
Where is he going?
It's your turn, Erin.
-I don't want to play anymore. -Me neither.
Why don't you turn on the radio
I think it's time for Edgar Bergen and Charlie McCarthy.
Why doesn't daddy come down and tell us about mama?
I don't know what the doctor is doing up there all this time.
Don't you worry none about Doc Vance.
He's one sawbones that really knows his business.
John-Boy, could you possibly see how mama is?
I don't want to keep pestering Daddy about it.
I do believe it'd be a satisfaction
to have some good news to help pass the evening.
Alright.
Daddy, the children are worried.
John-boy, Your mama's very sick.
Does the doctor know what it is?
-Yes, it's polio. -Polio.
Infantile paralysis.
-Is it very bad, polio? -It's bad.
She'll have to go to the hospital, aye?
Well, we can't move her tonight, but tomorrow we'll see.
Let's not say anything yet to the children, son.
Lets...let's just say, doctor's taking good care of your mama.
Okay. Sure.
The children. John, the children.
The children are fine, Liv.
I'm really sick.
That would be you, honey.
My plants, I forgot to water my plants.
The plants are perfectly alright, Liv.
Liv?
Are we gonna be able to see mama after school?
Probably not today, darling.
-Tomorrow? -I don't know. Maybe, Jason.
-That's G.W. -Is he whistling for you?
It's so unladylike being called for like that.
So who's a lady?
I don't jump up and race out of the house...
every time a boy whistles.
I don't hear any boys whistling for you.
-Your slip's showing. -Grandma.
Doc? You're still here?
I've gone and come back, Livie.
Delivered a baby and set a broken arm since I saw you.
-I've lost a day. -Don't you worry about that.
I'm so weak, I can't even lift my head.
-Still in pain? -Comes and goes.
Mostly I seem to have worn it out, or it's worn me out.
I don't want you to move around. You just rest.
Won't give you an argument.
What was it? Influenza?
We'll talk about that later.
Now the important thing is that you get your strength back.
Well, I'm due at the Faznots right this minute.
-Who's sick over there? -Nelly. Laryngitis.
Can't say a word.
Jim says it's the best vacation he's had in 27 years.
Well, I'll see you again this evening, Livie.
Grandma?
What's the doctor holding back from me?
How would I know. I'm just fetch-and-carry lady now.
I'm going to have to tell her, Doc.
I know, John. I know.
Let's let her have a few more hours.
How bad is it?
There's considerable nerve damage.
And paralysis seems to have moved down...
the lower spine into both legs.
-Will it pass? -I don't know.
That's the hellish thing about polio. We just don't know.
In a day or two, if the feeling doesn't come back...
-I'll have to put on splints. -Splints?
The theory goes that the affected muscles are weak.
That being the case, the other healthy ones are likely...
to pull the weak ones out of shape, cause crippling.
Is she going to have to wear these splints long?
I've got to say it again. I don't know.
-How's mama? -When can we see her?
-Quiet. -I drew a picture for her.
Quiet. Oh, well, I'll show it to her.
Keep quiet around the house now...
your grandma's trying to have a cat nap.
-Is grandma sick too? -No, she isn't.
She's wore out from taking care of your mama all night.
I didn't know you peeled potatoes.
You don't know a lot of things about me.
You'll have to learn to do a lot of things ...
before your mama get's up on her feet again.
-When will that be? -I don't know.
But in the meantime, I'm gonna keep busy...
and when I'm busy I like to see everybody around me busy, too.
-Well, I'll take the hint. -Shh, tippi-toe, tippi-toe.
If your grandma wakes up, she'll give me the dickens.
-Is Daddy upstairs? -Hasn't left her side all day.
Careful now, honey. Don't cut yourself. That's it.
I'll watch if you'd like to get a breath of fresh air.
No, thanks, son.
It could help, though...
if you and Jason finished up those timbers for Halvorsen.
Sure.
Now get me some fresh coffee.
John?
My legs.
I can't feel my legs.
I can touch them, but it's like they belong to somebody else.
Polio. That's what it is. Polio.
-John -Yes, Liv.
-The children, are they-- -The children are fine, honey.
Just fine.
Liv, it's gonna be alright.
...regard those who work with hand or brain...
as different from or inferior to...
those who live from their own property.
We insist that labor is entitled...
to as much respect as property.
But our workers with hand and brain...
Deserve more than just respect for their labor
I guess it's time we all had a little talk.
I've been waiting till were 100% sure before I said anything.
But now there's... there's no doubt.
Your mama's real sick.
She's got polio.
Polio? mama?
What's polio?
It's a disease that happens mostly to children.
Like that little Marlowe girl at school, remember?
You mean, the one with the crutches and wires on her legs?
Mostly it happens to children, but it happens to adults, too.
When will mama be over it?
Son, it's going to take a long time.
-Can she walk? -No. She's too weak right now.
Will mama have to use crutches...
and have those wires in her legs?
It's too soon to know, honey.
-I wish we could see her. -You're gonna see her.
You'll see her soon. Soon as the doc says it's not catching.
She want to see you real bad.
Daddy, what if mama can never walk again?
Nonsense.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt, our president...
had polio when he was about your mama's age.
Hasn't stopped that fellow none yet, has it?
Not so as you could notice.
It'll be kind of tough around here for a while...
but we're gonna get by real good.
There are going to be a lot of things you can do to help.
I'm gonna get back to my homework now.
That's a good idea. Why don't you all finish your homework.
-Daddy? -What is it, honey?
There's one thing I don't understand.
What's that?
How come it had to happen to mama?
You know, baby...
that's kind of hard for me to understand, too.
How'd they take it?
They're our children, Liv.
It's gonna be hard for 'em.
As soon as I can see them...
I've got to show them that they can depend on me...
same as always.
-Goodnight, Mama. -Goodnight, Elizabeth.
-Goodnight, Mama. -Goodnight, Ban.
-Goodnight, Mama. -Goodnight, Jason.
-Goodnight, Mama. -Goodnight, Jim-Bob.
-Goodnight, Mama. -Goodnight, John-Boy.
-Goodnight, Mama. -Goodnight, Mary-Ellen.
Aren't you going to say goodnight, Erin?
-Goodnight, Mama. -Goodnight, Erin.
Okay, come on.
Goodnight, John-Boy.
John, could I have some of my plants up here tomorrow?
Of course, honey.
It'll remind me that winter doesn't last forever.
You up to company?
Guess so.
Reverend, Fordwick.
We've been extremely concerned about you, Mrs. Walton.
How are you feeling?
The doctor says I'm improving.
Well, I'm certainly relieved to hear that.
I'm here as an emissary from the Ladies' Aid Society.
They asked to present this to you as a token...
of their affection
My goodness, such a large packet.
-Want me to open it for you? -Thank you, Grandma.
How nice of everybody.
I hope they haven't gone and spent a pile of money.
I was assured the cost was minimal.
-Livie, would you look at this. -I do vow.
Why, it's a signature quilt.
I've never seen one before.
"Get well soon. Evelyn."
"Courage, from Alma." Good old Alma.
"Best wishes from Tibbie."
They've been working on that ever since you were stricken.
"Thinking of you. Myrle."
Oh, grandma, put it over me.
It's like having all my dear friends around me.
Would you tell them I consider myself a lucky woman...
to have such good friends?
I certainly will. God's blessing be on you, ma'am.
Thank you.
I'll see him out.
How are the children taking this?
Oh, well, it's hard for them to understand.
It is for all of us.
Even you? A man of God?
I accept his ways, ma'am.
I don't always understand them.
Good day.
Will you stop it? Ben, get off of there!
Who started that?
-I don't know. -He did.
What was it about?
I don't know. Something just came over me.
-I'm sorry. -Me, too.
This is the wrong time to fight, you know. Just get back to bed.
-Where did you get that? -I got it in a trade.
What did you trade for it, and who did you trade with?
That's my business.
You're getting more picky than mama and daddy put together.
-You just stop picking on me. -I'm not picking.
I'm sorry. I'm not picking.
Elizabeth, I thought you gave that up for good.
I thought so, too.
Big girls don't suck their thumbs.
I don't feel very big tonight.
Go back to bed.
-Can't we stay, John-Boy? -No, you can't.
Just a little while. Please.
I promise not to suck my thumb.
-What's going on here. -We're getting into your bed.
No, you're not. You've got beds of your own.
So have they.
Alright. Let's just get one thing straight:
This is special. This is not a regular arrangement.
You've seen mama, haven't you?
Only from the door.
Does she look very different?
No, of course she doesn't, Erin.
Who put a thing like that into your head?
I don't know.
But I just couldn't stand to see mama different.
-That hurt? -No. I can't feel a thing.
Now, these splints supposed to protect the muscles.
Aren't there some exercises I can do?
The only exercise you can do is maybe trying to sit up.
Of course I'll sit up.
-That's not gonna be easy. -Who said it's going to be?
How am I gonna get the feeling back in my legs...
if I don't do exercises?
In time you may want to be fitted with braces.
No, I want to do something now. Today.
I'm sorry, Livie, but I don't think you've got a choice.
There must be something she can do, Doc.
Some kind of medicine, maybe.
Not that I know of.
But you've got time on your side, Livie.
You're a young woman, you're determined...
and I think you'll make a good recovery.
I'll look in two, three times a week.
If the pain should get worse...
or the fever come back, you send for me.
Is it safe for the children to come in now?
-Yes, I think you can see them. -Now?
-If you like. -I'll go get em. Be right here.
I'll let myself out, John.
Alright, children, you can see your mama now.
Slowly, Ben, quiet.
Come on, Erin.
Mamma!
This is my medicine.
Mary Ellen, I hardly recognize you without your baseball mitt.
Jimbo, if you don't get a haircut
somebody's gonna mistake you for a sheepdog.
Ruf, ruf.
And Miss Elizabeth what's this I hear about...
your rediscovering your thumb?
I've stopped again, Mama. For good.
I'm glad to hear it.
Can you feel this?
No, Elizabeth, I can't.
Where's Erin?
-She was downstairs with us. -I'll find her.
Jason you've got your harmonica?
Yeah.
Play us a tune. Something lively.
Grandma, where's Erin?
She ran outside.
Erin?
What are you hiding out here for? Your mama's asking for you.
John-Boy, I'm afraid.
You've got nothing to be afraid of.
I don't wanna see mama sick.
-Like a different person. -Erin.
John-Boy, I don't want mama to change!
Quiet, now. Hush, honey. Erin, you listen to me.
The important things about your mama haven't changed.
They never could.
The way she feels about you and me.
Maybe now she can't walk...
but she's the same person and she want's to see you.
I'm ashamed.
You've got no reason to be ashamed.
It's natural to want the people you love to stay the same.
Come on, she's waiting for you.
Shh!
Here's your stray lamb.
-Erin. -Mama.
Sweetheart.
Mama's room has become the center of the house.
Every day she talks with us...
telling us of the hopes and dreams she has for each of us.
"Meetheth me beside the still waters.
"He restoreth my soul:
"He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness...
for his own name's sake.
Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of...
That's lovely, Ben. But would you do me a favor?
Would you read from the "Song of Solomon"?
I just love chapter two, verse eleven.
Sure, Mama.
Here it is.
"For, lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone.
"Flowers appear on the Earth.
"The time of the singing of birds is come...
"and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land."
Ain't that beautiful. You read it with such feeling.
You really want to be a minister?
-If that's what you want, Mama. -What do you want?
Preaching would be fine, but I'm interested in being a salesman.
Salesman?
Remember that big fish that I caught...
and Daddy said it would be okay if I sold it?
I sold it to Mr. Gards for 15 cents and he doesn't like fish.
He said at the time I'd make a crackerjack salesman.
-You ought to try it. -What would I sell?
Doesn't see to be much of a future in fish around here.
How about magazines?
Like Collier's and Saturday Evening Post?
I hear some boys are very successful at it.
I'd sure like to give it a try.
It seems that mama is anxious to see us make a start...
toward fulfilling the possibilities...
she feels we have.
I want you to go for that dance with G.W.
I wanna see you looking pretty and girlish in a frilly dress.
-I don't have a frilly dress. -I know.
And that's why we're going to make you one.
Go get the Ladies' Home Journal. Go on.
We all tried to carry out mama's wishes
to please her and ourselves.
She encourages Jason to work on his music.
Says he should try out for the amateur show...
in Charlottesville.
With me she seems most to enjoy about talking about college
and what I'll be doing there.
University of Virginia.
I can just picture you there.
In my raccoon coat and my porkpie hat?
What you'll wear doesn't concern me as much as what you'll learn.
-What courses you gonna take? -I don't know.
I hope I can get in. They've got so many requirements.
I want to get it all fixed in my mind.
You know, Mama, the campus is only about 25 miles from here.
I can just drive down there and pick up catalogs.
We could plan it out, right here.
-I'd like that. -I would too.
I'm gonna ask Daddy when he can spare the truck.
John-Boy, do you think I'm being foolish?
No, Mama.
-Oh, good morning. -Good morning
-You're new? -Well, I'm not really here.
I mean, I'm not here yet. I'm here, but I just want to talk.
About what?
How you register, how much it costs...
what courses you have, and everything.
Almost everything, is in this brochure.
Fees, tuition cost, schedule of classes...
and an entrance application.
Will you be applying this fall?
This is sort of long-range planning.
Also could you direct me to the School of Medicine?
I would have thought you were the arts and humanities type.
You're right. I am interested in a career in journalism.
My mother's sick, so I was wondering ...
if I could talk to someone.
-Your mother's sick how? -With polio.
Then you should see Dr. Miller in Experimental Medicine.
Over in Jefferson County, Walton's Mountain.
Yes, I know. I come from up around Crabtree Falls.
-Are you in your freshman year? -No, I'm still in high school.
I'd like to come here, if we can get the money together.
-I see. Please sit down. -Thank you.
Doctor, one of the reason's I came here today was to see you.
I wish I could examine your mother...
but I never seem to get very far away from this lab.
I hope there was something you could suggest for us to do.
There's no vaccine to stop the damned crippler...
and no medicine to repair the damage once it's been done.
But we're working on it.
I gather you've noticed I've got a personal interest.
I was 18 years old, a pretty good football player.
Then one Saturday I had these strange pains in my back...
on Sunday I was completely out of my head...
and by Monday I was paralyzed from the waist down.
It's the same way with my mama.
That's the pattern. We stand by helplessly...
and just hope for the best.
Our doctor, Dr. Vance, has put splints on her legs.
That's the accepted approach. Nobody knows if it really helps.
I was reading in the newspaper about Sister Kenny...
and she's worked out her own treatment?
She's an Australian nurse. We're now checking into her methods.
She claims an extraordinary rate of recovery.
But, she's also attracted to a lot of controversy.
I'd like to find out more about her.
Nobody knows too much yet.
Maybe there's some place I could write to...
in Australia or something.
I'll tell you what: Leave me your name and address...
I'll see if I can get some of her pamphlets...
detailing the procedures.
I'll mail them. Show them to your doctor, see what he thinks.
I would be grateful to you for that.
It's no trouble at all, son.
Isn't that something, Doc?
It certainly is remarkable, Olivia.
Never thought a few weeks ago...
I'd be proud as a peacock at just being able to sit up.
You got quite a nurse here.
-Isn't she a wonder? -I may steal her away from you.
I'll get mama some fresh water.
Erin's different.
You never know what a person is till she's put to the test.
Now that you're able to sit up...
I'd say a wheelchair might be next.
I don't need a wheelchair. I'm going to walk.
You're a stubborn woman.
But for a stubborn woman, anything's possible.
You keep up the good work, Olivia.
What's the use of making the frilly dress? I can't dance.
We'll get to that.
Yes, I heard of Sister Kenny.
Is she a nun?
Uh, no, grandma, I think in Australia
they call any nurse "sister."
As I remember, she was...
working in the back country down there...
and she came up with her own treatment for polio.
The doctor at the University says she claims...
a really high recovery rate.
You know what she does different, Doc?
No, I don't, but if you get the pamphlets, I'll study them.
Okay.
But don't get your hopes up.
Most times these quick cures...
turn out to be some kind of quackery.
Could use your help out back, son.
Okay, I'll get my coat.
Mama, make them go away.
It's bad enough without them watching.
There'll be people watching you at the dance.
If they snicker I'll slug them.
Quite a well bred young lady, you are.
Okay, Jason, strike up the band.
-Quit hawing at me. -Mary Ellen, you've got to move.
G.W. is not gonna carry you around the dance floor.
-The tortoise and the hare. -Yeah.
-Not too fast. -Mary Ellen, what are you doing?
You're leading me. Remember what I told you?
You're the girl, I'm the boy.
She forgot.
Let's do it right, okay. Last time.
Looks like a tugboat.
It's the dumbest thing I ever did.
That's better.
-Smile. -I don't feel like smiling.
Smile anyway. One, two, three. One, two, three.
Very good, Mary Ellen. Very good.
Won't I get any credit for my feet?
You're elegant, John-Boy, just elegant. Like your father.
Lift your feet little higher.
A little higher.
Liv, you moved your foot.
Liv, you moving your foot.
It's moving.
Your foot's moving, Liv.
John-Boy, children, look. I can move my foot.
Mama, you did it!
I moved my foot.
Mama!
I'm going to walk again. Just wait and see.
I'll be walking by Easter.
You're gonna walk right to the Easter sunrise service.
I can't believe it. I moved my foot.
-Here you go, John-Boy. -Thank you.
-Is this it? -Yeah. What were you expecting?
Big check for one of those stories you send off?
A doctor at the University of Virginia...
promised to send pamphlets on polio.
-Hi, men. -Sheriff.
-How's your mother, John-Boy? -She's able to move her leg.
-Thank you. -Well, that's good news.
-That's good. I'm too late, Ike? -No, we got lots of time.
It's like a day without sunshine if I miss it.
John-Boy, you better send that doctor a note and remind him.
I guess I'll do that.
Funny. He didn't seem the man to forget.
-Ike, time's moving right along. -We won't miss a word.
John-Boy, if anything comes in from the university.
-I'll bring it over. -Thanks, Ike.
-How do you turn this on? -I'll turn it on.
John-Boy, why don't you stick around...
and listen to Ma Perkins with us?
-Not today, Ike. Thanks for the licorice.
My best to your mom.
On your way back from Charlottesville...
stop at Ike Godsey's for my stew beef.
About 15 cents worth will do just fine.
And I need 15 cents of blue sash...
for Mary Ellen's new dance dress.
15 cents for a piece of ribbon?
I promised Livie.
Man does not live by stew beef alone, old woman.
Don't misquote Scripture to me, old man.
15 cents for a piece of ribbon.
Tell Ike to throw in a large soup bone for that.
I'll try, Ma.
What do you feel about the audition, Jason?
I guess I'm ready.
He should be. He's in the barn half the day...
worrying that guitar to death.
You got nothing to worry about.
Have a way with music like no one.
Can we come with you, Daddy?
What would you two be doing in Charlottesville?
-We could do something for mama. -Everybody else is.
Mama did ask me to bring back some springtime with me.
Where can you find that?
Can't find that in any catalog I've ever seen.
I have an idea of how you can do something for your mama.
-What is it? -Come, I'll tell you on the way.
Take those gloves out of your pocket. Here we go.
You want to go to Charlottesville, son?
I can't. I got too much work.
-Bye, Ben. -Good luck.
-Thank you. -He doesn't need it.
-Yes, I do. -In you go.
Don't put your feet on the seat.
Okay, Daddy.
Bye.
Pick you up in about a half an hour.
Okay.
-Good luck. -Thank you.
-John-Boy, I don't know. -Don't know what?
Playing for the family is one thing...
but playing for Osgood Tennyson...
who's used to hearing the best, is something else.
-You're one of the best. -Maybe I'm not.
-You don't want to find out? -No, I do, but I don't.
I think this is it.
What are you kids doing back here?
We're looking for the place to audition for the amateur show.
Oh, okay, this way.
Are you Mr. Tennyson?
No, he don't get here till the day of the show.
I'm his advance man, Snyder.
Well, what's your specialty?
Tap dance? Juggle?
Imitate Laurel and Hardy?
No, not me. My brother plays the guitar and sings.
-Sensational. -Jason Walton.
Okay, let's hear it.
Right now?
Well, you gonna audition. Audition.
Hold this.
Let's have the entry fee first.
The entry fee?
It didn't say anything on the poster about an entry fee.
$1 in advance.
Then I guess I can't audition. I don't have $1.
Wait, kid.
Tell you what, for you I'll make it 50 cents.
Everybody's got 50 cents.
Not me.
Come on. Let's wait and audition for Mr. Tennyson.
Program will be set when he gets to town.
Then maybe the manager of the theater...
or someone over at the newspaper.
Wait.
-Mama, guess what? -You earned your first million.
My first 50 cents. I've got eight customers.
Three for The Saturday Evening Post, two for Collier's
two for Liberty and the Baldwins took the $3 special.
You're a salesman alright.
-Mind me not being a preacher? -I'm proud of you.
Oh, watch out, Elizabeth.
-Is that Daddy and the children? -Yes, ma'am.
What're they doing out there?
I can't tell. It's going to be a surprise for you.
What do you call these things, Daddy?
Crocuses, honey.
Crocuses. That's a hard word.
I know, but it's one of your mama's favorite flowers.
These things really turn into flowers?
They sure do. The sun shines, the rain falls.
One day this is going to be blooming with color.
How long will it take?
Well, they should come in about Easter.
Mama will be well then, won't she?
I hope so, son. I sure hope so. Now, pat it down real good.
There you go, honey. Drop it right in there. Attagirl.
I've got to get that order into town.
You're still at it, huh, Liv?
I try to add five minutes each day.
Don't overdo it.
- There's no change, John. - What do you mean?
Just look at the way that leg's moving.
I could do that a week ago.
I wanna swing my legs over the side of the bed
stand up, walk to the closet, choose me a dress
dash down the stairs and run out into the yard.
Healing takes time.
-Do you think I'll walk again? -I think you will.
Dr. Vance doesn't think so.
-Did he say that? -Not in so many words.
But every time he comes he talks about braces and the wheelchair.
He's saying, "Face it, Livie.
Resign yourself to being an invalid."
Liv...
I told you as plain as I know how.
I believe you're gonna walk again.
How much does the doctor charge every time he comes here?
That's no concern of yours.
I can't just lie here with an empty mind.
That's a good sign.
I don't follow you.
You're getting feisty.
Is that Dr. Vance?
No. I don't know who it is.
It sure was a pleasant surprise...
for you to come all the way up here and make a special visit.
It took a long time to locate those pamphlets.
And I know how important every day, each hour can be...
when you first start trying to work your way back.
So I decided to deliver them in person.
Alright, children, go on back to your homework.
Elizabeth.
What do you feel about this Sister Kenny method, Doctor?
Well, it's radically different than our accepted procedures.
She said she doesn't believe in using splints.
No, she insists that instead of preventing muscle damage
splints can cause it.
As I understand it, she thinks the muscles go into a spasm...
and need to be relaxed by using hot compresses.
That makes good sense to me.
Yes, we can learn a lot from folk medicine.
Sister Kenny uses wool blankets wrung out in boiling water.
Then, once the muscles relax, she starts massaging them.
The idea is to keep a path from the brain to the muscles open.
That sounds simple enough.
Many of my colleagues think it's too simple.
Now, understand, I can't prescribe it.
You can show it to your doctor, if he sees merit in it....
Well, I'll get these to him right away.
Would Mrs. Walton feel up to seeing me for a few minutes?
John, I think she should.
Well, sure, fine.
-I'll tell her you're coming. -Good.
-That's very encouraging. -Thank you, Doctor.
I'm not speaking as a doctor.
I'm remembering when I was in your place.
It was months before I could do that.
I figure if I keep exercising, I'll get more and more control.
That's certainly possible.
I know you want more than possibilities.
You want certainties and guarantees.
Well, there are none with polio.
-But as long as there's hope. -That's the spirit.
Remember, we human beings are highly adaptable creatures.
There may come a time when you'll feel you can't go on...
unless you know you'll get back to the person you were before.
Trying to tell me I'll have to settle for less than that?
Not for less, but maybe something different.
I hope you don't have to face that, but if you do...
I know you'll know how to handle it.
-Thank you for coming to see me. -Good luck.
I'm looking forward to the day when you can come and see me.
Down here, G.W.
Hurry up, G.W.
Mary Ellen, you go at everything too fast.
This is as good a place as any. Okay.
You said you want to practice.
-Where's your mitt? -Not baseball, dancing.
Now, Mary Ellen?
When we start moving around that dance floor Friday night...
nobody's going to be snickering.
What's that?
Ricky May's movie magazine. She loaned it to me. Look.
-Who are they? -Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers.
That's what I want for us.
-Mary Ellen... -Now, take me in your arms.
Are you going to take me in your arms, or am I gonna wham you?
Closer. Okay, now relax.
It's very simple. It's just one, two, three, okay?
One, two, three.
-Sorry. -One, two, three.
One, two, three.
Well, what worries me is taking off those splints.
Without that support...
Olivia could find herself a lot worse off than she is now.
Yeah, but the steam heat, the massage.
Now that sounds exactly like what Livie needs.
Well, you do what you think best.
I guess I just don't believe in miracles.
Sister Kenny doesn't claim to work miracles.
But to my way of thinking
starting something like this now is just postponing
the adjustment Olivia's gonna have to make sooner or later.
-Adjustment? -Olivia's not dealing the cards.
She's got to take the hand she's got and accept the fact
that she's crippled.
It's hard, but it's true. She's got to accept it.
Quit straining to do the impossible.
Get on with the job of shaping a life for herself
with her new limitations.
No.
I have tested and retested those nerves.
I know what the odds are against recovery.
-Doc-- -Just a minute, son.
You see, Doc, Livie's not ready to hear that yet.
We're just gonna have to talk it over with her, that's all.
Well, you all let me know what you decide.
Thanks for the coffee.
Let's take the splints and start the Sister Kenny treatment now.
It's not going to work a miracle.
If you do it, you'll be taking chances.
I'll take them. I'm making no progress this way.
Livie, listen to the boy. There are risks involved.
But the hot poultice will ease the soreness in those muscles.
And that in itself is a blessing.
At last I'll be doing something instead of lying here.
-Come on, let's get started. -You're right.
I'm going to get things going in the kitchen.
-Livie... -John!
Come on, John.
Alright.
-It's ready, Ma. Here it comes. -It's hot.
-Just wait for me to get it. -Don't scald the young 'uns.
Pour the lava out of the volcano.
Oh, that's enough.
Here, use this.
Esther, watch your fingers in the wringer.
There's always someone on the sidelines giving orders.
When we get two of these, we should take them to the room.
-Erin, I'll go with you. -Okay.
Ah-ah-ah, Esther.
-Alright. -Will you be quiet?
Don't rush it. Come on, Erin.
-Here's another one. -Here's another pot.
-Who's got a pot here? -Quick.
-Where's the pot? -Hurry up, Ben.
-I've got it. -Grab it.
This can go.
Too hot?
No.
-When do we start the exercises? -Not for two or three more days.
Okay, here.
I'm gonna go down and get some more of those.
-Take the can. -Of course.
-Put some more water on to boil. -Right.
Alright, Livie?
-What are you so down about? -I've been practicing my song.
I'm going to play in the amateur contest.
Why should that depress you?
Well, the more I listen to it the less I like it.
I think it's real pretty.
That's 'cause you're my grandma.
If I didn't like it, I'd say so.
Don't you think it's too quiet and slow to please an audience?
If you don't like it, find something else.
I want to play a tune of my own.
Something will come to you.
Grandma, don't stop.
I'm finished.
Iron a little longer. I was just getting the rhythm.
Keep on ironing when the job's done?
Please, Grandma, couldn't you just re-iron that sheet?
Oh, I vow, I don't know what this family's gonna ask me
to do next.
A little faster, Grandma.
Just hold her under the calf and turn her foot in a circle.
Okay.
Think you're turning your ankle now.
Think of it. Try to pretend you're doing it.
You're turning your ankle.
Pretend you feel it. You're turning your ankle.
Okay now, let's do the other leg.
John-Boy...
John-Boy, if I could just get on my feet.
You're not ready for it, Mama.
Please, come on, help me. Give me a chance.
Okay.
Alright, this will save you. Here, scoot up.
-Say if you feel any pain. -I will.
Get her under the arm, Erin.
Okay, one, two, three, up!
It's no good. I can't do it. Why am I so impatient?
You've all been so good to me. Why can't I just be satisfied?
It'll happen.
Alright, Erin.
You do the work and I'll do the thinking.
Okay, now...
you're bending your knee.
Now you're bending your knee.
Keep your brain open.
Just keep the passage flowing from the brain to the....
Pretend you're doing it. You're bending your knee.
Now turn her ankle.
-You two lose something? -We're looking for our crocuses.
The ones we planted for Mama.
Yeah. Well, I don't see any signs of them.
-But what if they never come up? -They'll come up alright.
As soon as they're ready, them crocuses will start croaking.
Are you sure of that, Grandpa?
I'm just sure as I'm sure of anything.
They're nice and snug and warm down there.
They know if they stick their noses up too soon...
old Jack Frost might nip them off.
They're our Easter present for Mama.
Easter, huh? Well, they've still got plenty of time.
Have a little faith.
Well now, if it isn't the Baldwin sisters.
Welcome, ladies. Welcome
Mr. Walton, I hope you'll excuse this unannounced visit.
Announced or unannounced
you charming ladies are always most welcome.
You always say exactly the right thing.
My old woman might dispute that, but be that as it may
I thank you.
We thought we might pay our respects to Olivia.
So far only the immediate members
of the family have been seeing her...
I believe you ladies will do her a world of good.
We've also taken the liberty of bringing a gift.
-You have? -It's right back here.
We wanted something appropriate.
-What is it? -It's a most impressive gift.
So thoughtful of you to come and visit me.
We wanted you to know you're in our thoughts and prayers.
-That's very kind. -Thank you.
I do believe prayer changes things. Don't you?
Well, I have an open mind on that, Miss Emily.
Of course, the changes may not always be exactly
what we would like.
It isn't always easy to accept.
"God's ways seem dark
but soon or late they touch the shining hills of day."
That's beautiful.
Can we bring the present in, now?
Oh, yes, please do.
We hoped it might be useful.
It's one of the newest designs.
Mr. Godsey helped us arrange for it.
Sister and I spoke with Dr. Vance.
It's a very thoughtful present. Thank you.
We wanted to do something practical.
For a change.
This was his suggestion.
I hope we haven't overstepped the bounds of friendship?
No. The best possible friends and neighbors. Thank you.
Sister, we must go.
-We'll come back. If we may. -Do.
Maybe after services on Easter.
-I'll look forward to it. -Bye, Olivia.
Bye-bye.
John.
Livie....
-Liv. -It's alright.
And the splints?
Taking them off doesn't seem
to have caused them any damage so far...
and these hot packs probably made her feel
a little more comfortable.
-Did you test the reflexes? -No change.
That's a good, solid wheelchair.
Olivia should manage real well with it whenever she's ready.
I don't want to hear any more about wheelchairs!
-Listen, son, that's enough. -No, that's alright.
I'd better be going.
I won't allow that kind of disrespect in this house.
The water's boiling.
Go on ahead. We'll manage with it. I'll take that.
-You ready? For tonight? -I guess so.
-You don't want to back out? -No, do you?
-No. I'll be here by 7:30. -Okay.
Oh, G.W., tonight, don't whistle.
-G.W., come on in. -Thank you.
-Hey, G.W. -Good evening.
I've seen a suit like that on a dummy before.
-Where's Mary Ellen? -She's upstairs.
Is she sick?
No, she's practicing a few dance steps.
Mrs. Walton'd
like to see the two of you together before you go off.
Liv, look who's here.
-Hello, G.W. -Hi, Mrs. Walton.
Mary Ellen.
Open your jacket and let me see your suit.
-My, you look nice. -Thank you.
What do you think?
You'll be the prettiest girl there.
Mama.
Let's show them how we dance, G.W.
G.W.
-Oh John, aren't they good? -Real good.
Just think what it's going to be like when you have music.
You two run along now, and have a wonderful time.
Thank you, Mama.
-Goodbye, Mrs. Walton. -Goodbye, G.W.
Goodnight, honey.
-G.W., have a good time. -Okay, bye-bye.
-Don't stay out too late, hear? -Okay.
John, would you please get that thing out of my sight?
Livie....
Well, how was it?
At first it was terrible.
I mean, it was worse than I expected.
Everybody was kind of standing around looking at everybody.
So G.W. and I got up and started to dance. And it wasn't so bad.
When it was time to go home, I just wished it would never end.
In fact, three boys already asked me to the next dance.
How did G.W. feel about that?
He wanted me to promise not to go dancing with anybody but him.
Did you promise?
I told him I'd think about it.
That's my girl.
Thanks, Mama.
Why don't you go get ready for bed, then come back?
Okay.
Don't forget to hang up your dress.
Okay.
Here you go.
Jason, my boy, tonight is your big night.
Maybe.
I wish we could be there to hear you.
I'm gonna tell you something.
-You're gonna be. -Really? How?
Hold on there, John.
You realize what it'd cost to take this entire outfit there?
It's not going to cost much money.
We're getting a special discount because Jason's playing.
And when he gets up there on that stage
I think he should hear from us Waltons.
Good luck, Jason.
You can tell Livie and me about it when you're back.
-You're going, too, Grandma. -You inspired the song.
Well, I'd like to, but Livie might need something.
I'm staying home with Mama. I want to.
That's settled, then.
Pass those biscuits. Here, and give me some butter.
-Take them off, please. -But Mama, it isn't time.
Please take them off. I can't stand them another minute.
Honey, I'm sorry for snapping at you like that.
-After you've been so gentle. -That's okay, Mama.
If I was you, I'd be yelling all the time.
Sounds like Daddy and the children.
They're coming in the house now. I hope Jason won.
They're awfully quiet.
Then that might mean that Jason didn't win.
-Did Jason get the prize? -I won't tell you what happened.
We're gonna show you what happened.
-Come on. -John!
Here we go. Get that comforter. Let's go.
Alright, watch the chair.
-Okay, ready? -Look who's here.
-Miss First Nighter.
It's good to be down here with all of you.
Tell you what we were thinking when riding back tonight.
And we realized that you and Erin have not seen
one of the best shows ever.
So we decided to do a little show for you.
And Grandpa's kindly volunteered to play the part...
of Mr. Osgood Tennyson.
The greatest discoverer of raw talent in the world.
I do believe I'm too modest to do the part justice.
But still, I'll try.
Please, no applause.
Very well, if you insist.
Now, my friends, for I know you are my friends...
thank you for listening to my incomparable show...
each and every Monday night on your favorite radio station.
First, to start off with...
we have the greatest animal act I have ever seen in my life:
The Whistler and his Dog.
Okay. Sit up.
Shake hands.
Play dead.
There, didn't I tell you? Didn't I tell you?
That dog, now, he's absolutely brilliant.
But we could do with a new master.
And now, to mosey along, our next act is:
Eleanor the Elocutionist.
Mary had a little lamb, its fleece was black as soot.
And everywhere that Mary went, his sooty foot he put.
Didn't I tell you? Oh, she's marvelous.
Just brilliant. And to think, that she's only 39.
And now for the great act of the evening...
our contestant, Mr. Jasbo Walton.
Mr. Jasbo Wilton. Monsieur Jasbo Walton.
Monsieur Jason Walton...
and his celebrated guitar solo, the Ironing Board Blues.
I'd like to dedicate this song to my Grandma, who inspired it.
* Daddy's in the sawmill cutting railroad ties *
* Mama's in the kitchen baking apple pies *
* Grandpa and the children have 'em chores to do *
* While Grandma tries to iron out the Ironboard Blues *
* Oh, the Ironing Board Blues it's old and it's new *
* It's fast or it's slow it's just whatever you choose *
* You needn't be afraid to state your views *
* And tell all the world you've got the Ironing Board Blues *
* Grandma gets the rhythm walking to and fro *
* Her feet tap syncopation on the kitchen floor *
* The Ironing Board is squeaking on the one and the two *
* And you know that
* Grandma Walton's playing the Ironing Board Blues *
* Oh, the Ironing Board Blues is old and it's new *
* It's fast or it's slow it's just whatever you choose *
* You needn't be afraid to state your views *
* And tell all the world you've got the Ironing Board Blues **
Now, folks, although the other contestants...
were celebrated and equally talented...
I think there's no doubt we must award first prize
in this contest to Monsieur Jasbo Walton, or whatever.
Here it is.
Thank you.
-Jason, what a handsome guitar. -It's a humdinger alright.
Oh, I'm so proud of you.
And thank you all for the show.
It was almost as good as being there.
Play something on the new guitar for Mama.
It's been a long, hard day. Go to sleep.
Can't you see I'm praying?
Put in a good word for me.
I always do.
I need all the help I can get.
-Zeb. -Hmm?
You were real good tonight as the announcer.
Not that good.
Easter is less than a week away.
Spring is still not in sight, and Mama seems no closer
to walking.
Suppose this is the year when spring never comes...
no green buds, no blossoms
with the promise of fruit and harvest?
Men must have shared these same doubts for thousands of years.
Asked themselves, "What must we do to bring back spring?
What can we offer you in exchange for an end to winter?"
The beginnings of new life.
Mama strong and well again.
What can we do?
Don't you think you've done enough for one day?
No. Today, I am going to take some steps.
Mama.
Thought maybe I'd stroll over to the door.
Isn't that a nice word, John-Boy?
"Stroll."
I never realized before...
how many beautiful words we have to describe walking.
"Amble. Pace.
-"Stride. Saunter." -Up.
It all comes down to putting one foot in front of the other...
without falling on the floor.
Stand away, John-Boy. Today, I'm going to do it.
It's now or never.
If at first you don't succeed....
Okay, okay, okay.
Why can't I do it? My legs are so much stronger.
The pain is gone. What's the matter with me?
-You're doing your best. -I'm not, else I'd be walking.
Stroll.
Amble.
Saunter.
Now, that's enough. No more.
If you try any more, you'll undo everything you've accomplished.
-Everything I've accomplished? -Let's get back to bed.
Give me your arm.
Up.
Easy.
You know, you're right, Mama.
Your muscles seem better, your reflexes are good.
-Maybe you're trying too hard. -John-Boy, that's enough.
Sometimes when you're trying to learn something new...
and your mind wants your body to do certain things...
the more you think about it, the stubborner your body gets.
When Daddy was trying to teach me how to swim...
at first I was all tense and just straining
to remember everything he'd said to me...
and I just nearly drowned. But as soon as I loosened up...
and didn't think so much, it came real easy to me.
John-Boy, I am very tired.
Maybe tomorrow.
Tomorrow's a good day to start getting used to my wheelchair.
-Mama. -Come on.
Close the door, please. I want to get some rest.
She's tired and disappointed. Tomorrow when she feels--
Tomorrow your mama's gonna start using the wheelchair.
How you can say that? We know she can't stop trying to walk!
You and I started this.
She's done her best, and we all have.
-Now, it's no use. -I don't believe that!
There's strength in her legs. I won't let her give up!
John-Boy, will you stop tormenting her and yourself?
The only way your mama's gonna get peace of mind...
is to resign herself to God's will.
Is it God's will that Mama spends her life in a wheelchair
-Hobbling on crutches? -So it seems.
If that's your God, Grandma
I won't accept his will, for Mama or myself!
John-Boy!
-What's wrong? -You better go after him, son.
Well, I hope you've run yourself out, son. I sure have.
It's quite a drop.
Better be careful, son.
You never know when a piece of that earth's gonna drop off.
Yeah.
I guess in this world you just can't count on anything.
Can you?
I just don't believe that, John-Boy.
Mama's given up.
She's given up.
Grandma says that's for the best.
She says we have to accept that as God's will.
John-Boy.
I think maybe your grandma's right.
Oh, Daddy, all my life I've been preached to...
about this God of love and mercy watching over us.
Just show me one thing that's loving and merciful about this.
-I don't know that I can, son. -Of course, you can't.
What kind of a God would do this?
You feel he hasn't kept up his part of the bargain, huh?
He hasn't.
Well....
Maybe that's because it's your bargain, not his.
I don't know much about this personal God...
that your mama and your grandma believe in...
but....
I do know there's a power working in our lives...
protecting us, blessing us all these years, son.
And we've accepted those blessings.
Now, it's time for us to accept the other.
That's you saying that? You're saying that to me?
You? That's like lying down. That's like quitting.
Like looking up at the sky and saying:
"Okay, Lord, it's alright with me if it's your will."
I don't accept that, and I don't see how you can accept that.
It's not my way to lie down and let life kick me in the face.
And it's not your mama's way either.
I mean, things you can change you gotta try to change.
But some things you can't change in life.
Standing around and shaking your fist at the sky won't change it.
It may make you feel better for a minute or two
but it doesn't change anything!
Daddy, you listen to me. As a boy I worshipped you.
I worshipped the ground you walked on.
I tried with all my heart to believe everything you told me.
And I tried to be just like you.
But now we've come to a fork in the road...
and I just don't believe one word you're saying to me.
John-Boy, you're going to have to find your own answers, son.
But this much I do know...
good times and bad times come to all of us.
And what counts...
what counts, son, is the way you take them.
What you let those times do to you.
That's what counts, son.
It's not enough for me.
John-Boy, that's all I got to say to you.
I'm sorry. It's not enough, Daddy.
I'm sorry.
Listen to that rain.
We sure need it.
The last storm of winter.
Or maybe the first spring rain.
John, is that wheelchair still around?
Yes, it is, Liv.
It's out in the hallway.
Tomorrow, I'm gonna start learning how to use it.
What's happened, Liv?
This afternoon I had a little lesson in humility.
Got to get back to the business of living
with things the way they are...
instead of the way I wish they could be.
You sure?
Hmm-mm.
-Goodnight. -Goodnight
Mommy, come and help me.
Mama, Mama, Mama Help me, Mama! Help me!
One of the devil's after me.
Mama, Mama!
Livie.
I heard Elizabeth call.
I just had to go to her.
She was having a bad dream.
I'm alright.
Oh, look.
Isn't that beautiful?
It's our surprise, Mama.
Olivia, how did you do it?
I don't know.
Maybe you were right, John-Boy.
Maybe I was trying too hard.
When I just got up without thinking....
Well, look at me.
I can walk as well as any 1-year-old in the county.
I just may take you dancing when you grow up.
I will walk.
I'll be walking by Easter.
"I am the light of the world, sayeth the Lord.
"He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness...
but shall have the light of life."
* Raise your joys and triumphs high *
* Alleluia!
* Sing, ye heavens, and earth reply *
* Alleluia!
* Love's redeeming work is done *
* Alleluia! Fought the fight.. *
My mother did go to the sunrise service that Easter morning...
and there was a special joy in all our hearts...
as she stood leaning on my father's arm...
facing into the first glorious rays of the sun...
which rolled back the darkness...
and warmed the wakening world to new life and hope.
Many Easters have passed since then.
Other springs have been slow to come...
but inevitably winter has yielded to spring.
The years have brought the full quota of blessings and trials..
joys and heartaches.
The same old questions recur:
"Why my child? Why my wife? Why me? Why?"
And the search for answers...
has been taken up by new generations of grandchildren.
But it's still reassuring for me...
to catch the echo of those dear, familiar voices...
on that Easter long, long ago.
* Alleluia! *
-Mama? -Yes, Elizabeth?
Which crocuses did you like the best?
Blue, or the yellow, or the white?
They're all so lovely, I liked them all equally.
-Same as us children? -That's right.
-Goodnight, Mama. -Goodnight, Elizabeth.