Jude 2

Of Old Barns and Black & White Photographs



I love old barns, and I love black and white photographs. They conjure up in my mind a time with a slower less stressful pace. They bring scenes to my mind’s eye . . . My father’s ‘55 Chevy Bel Aire, walking to school, the whole family and anybody else that happened to be there gathered at the dinner table. Long summer days playing with the best toy I had, my imagination. The crush I had on Patty Rainwater, sock hops in the school gym, family picnics at the beach. Leaving the doors open, much less locked, because every kid in the neighborhood was going to make at least three trips through the house on any given day.

Would that I could return to those days? At times I think yes, life was slower and simpler. Then I realize that I would have to give up all the modern technology that makes life easier. I can speak only for myself, but as much as I long for that simpler life, I would not go back, I seek instead to find the balance between, the then and the now. Surly there is such a balance, a life with less stress and pressure yet enhanced by the wonderful technologies of today.

Until then I will continue to love old barns, and black and White photographs.


TW

TW I too have real feelings for the old days and remember the simple times. But I'm afraid those days are gone forever. I guess that is why I can look foward now to that heavenly home with more zeal then ever before. There will be no more sorrow, pain , and suffering, but as the bible has declaired the we should "know his joy". Untill then yes the old barns and the old houses, maybe an old chimney, and wonder what is the story behind each. We are getting old.

oletimer,
Yes, we are getting old. But perhaps that is why I can now ponder these questions. The old days seem so idyllic, so slow paced, free from the worries of modern life. But were they? Are my memories filtered through the eyes of a child with no responsibilities?

I can now understand the sacrifices that my parents made in order to raise five children. I can appreciate the work that my father did to keep a roof over our heads, and food on the table. I can see how that led to him having several heart attacks, which in turn forced my mother into the work force. As I look at it now, I can see that ever generation has had it's own set of dangers. The stress and pressures have always been there, they just had different names.

Yet I, as well as most our age, indulge myself with flights of fantasy. The fantasy of returning too an age of innocence. That age never really existed. It only exist in our minds as we view it through the veil of time. Would I return to those years if I could? No. I know now that God has placed me in this age, not a previous one, that He has a purpose for my being alive in 2008.

I do look forward to that time when I will join my Heavenly Father for eternity. Until that time I shall strive to do the best that I can, living my life as an example of Christ love and enjoying the fullness and beauty of God's creation.


TW

reminds me of a really good book my grandfather gave me. I don't know that anyone would have heard of the author, (it was a relative of a man who worked for Grandpa) but it really captured the blessings of a more simple life. It's called "Henry and the Great Society", and basically Henry and his family had a great life, then they paved the road..."

I have that book! It was excellent! A former pastor's wife, when I was FWB, was passing copies around prior to Y2K.

http://www.cumberlandbooks.com/index.ph ... ucts_id=68

I did a google search hoping to find it, and was surprised at all the reviews and availability, as I said my Grandfather knew the author, and I have a signed copy he gave to him. He's not a big author, but what I've read of his is interesting, and very easy reading with a good message.