羅恩·菲利普·戈爾德/Karon Philips Goodman
I was only seventeen when grandma Elsie died. She was my last living grandparent and I was her only grandchild. Until the lawyer read her will, I never fully appreciated the depth of the old lady’s love. It was a moment I will never forget-a day that made me the richest kid in town.
Mom, Dad, Aunt Sophie, Uncle Bill and I sat around a small conference table in her attorney’s office. She wanted her daughters and their husbands to share what little monetary wealth she left-the proceeds of her small insurance policy, an antique cameo, a few bracelets, some costume jewelry and her wedding band. She also bequeathed them the deed to her house, her bank account, a few shares of stock in the local Gas and Electric Company, as well as the American flag she was presented with at Grandpa Edwin’s military funeral.
As we rose to leave, the attorney said,“there are three more things.”He reached into his briefcase and brought out a small jewelry box, a letter, and a stack of envelopes neatly wrapped in tissue paper and tied with a fading pink ribbon.“Jeffrey, your Grandmother left you her diamond engagement ring, hoping you’ll make good use of it soon.”Everyone smiled.
“These are also for you, Jeffrey,”he said.“It may be the most precious legacy of all-a letter and this stack of love notes.”Grandma’s letter began,“Dear Jeffrey, I am leaving you one of my most precious treasures-my memories. These memories are the letters your Grandfather Edwin wrote when he was away from me.”
Please read them. They are both priceless and valuable-a guidebook that will teach you how to love a woman, how to understand people, and how to respect and maintain your integrity.
“When you read them you will share the longing and passion a good man feels for a good woman, and you will also discover the empowering enchantment they will give you. You will also understand the fears and tears of war. And you will realize the differences between right and wrong. You will learn to trust the people you love and keep your distance from those you mistrust. You will learn about mature friendships and how true love can become the core of your life.”