Rich but Poor
I have worked here for most my life, and I have to keep telling myself it's worth is, but it's not. I've torn my family apart, If you would even call it a family. Five years ago my wife, Elisabeth, died and my son blamed me. He said my greed was what ripped us apart, and I think he is right. He moved out and has a family of his own now. He married June and has a four year old daughter, Faith. I haven't even met my own granddaughter yet. Oh how I'm dying to meet her, to be a part of her life, to watch her grow and her recognize me. Her grandfather. I have alzheimer's and my one wish is to know them well enough to forget them.
I've picked up the phone so many times before but just couldn't.What if he hang up on me or he didn't let me say I was sorry? What if he picked up? What if? Should I take that chance?
I pick the phone and dial... "Hello? Dad?"
He answered.
Fought and Won (Vimy Ridge)
April 7th, 1917
The nights have been freezing. We have been walking for days, I’ve lost track. We have almost
reached ------ then we will stop, starts making our dig outs and meet up with our new Lieutenant. Yesterday we marched through a village that was destroyed. Shot down, crumbling. It looked abandoned, then I saw a family making their way to safety. A mother, two boys and a little girl. She reminded me so much of Faith. She must be so big by now! I miss you guys and I’m keeping my promise.
The mood of the men has changed, like they know what is going to happen. I can feel it too.
April 8th, 1917
We finally have arrived and can rest. The men are tired, but they are ready.
April 10th, 1917
It has started. Sun down was an hour ago and the fighting has relented. We have lost so many already and had to send many back to the hospital tent but we are gaining way. We are Winning! Their riffle dig outs are hard to spot but we have a secret weapon. I won’t be able write for a while. Any time we aren’t fighting we need to get rest.
April 13th, 1917
We did it! We have ---- -----. But not all of us in one piece. Jonas lost his legs from a mine, he has 2 kids! Riley his arm up to his shoulder! And my leg... I can just barely walk. But I Promise I’ll be okay.
There is so much killing, so much death, So much Hate. Sometimes I wonder why? And hope it all has purpose.
April 20th, 1917
We are headed to meet up with the next regiment. Then I’m Coming home. I’m coming home Babe!
