The wait of responsibility

Being entrusted with words is a big responsibility. I was just thinking this today, as I was trying to find the right words to tell the story of an inspiring 99-year-old woman from Rolla, Mo., who has crammed so much into her life that it makes me feel like a lazy Susan... her story is so big, it's hard to wrap my thoughts around, and do it justice.

Being entrusted with telling someone's story... what an awesome, ominous onus. I've been writing for 20 years now, and somehow this part of writing never ceases to make me stumble. Or at least to pause and reflect. Oh, I'll get there eventually... and give it my best shot. But there will always be one final thing I wanted to say, a feeling that I didn't pack the story with all the power I'd hoped to.

I guess all I can do is be as present and open about it, and as honest as possible. Here's to you, Mildred Leaver... I hope I can tell your story with as much inspiration on paper as it exists in reality.

Remembering 50 years ago

Well, it's over... this huge event we planned and stage in Newton, Kansas. Last Saturday, we read the names of about 50 men who helped move Santa Fe Engine 1880, a Prairie-type steam locomotive, into Military Park.

The older guys were surprised we had such a large turnout. I can't say I was surprised, but I was especially pleased. For months I'd worked to track down these men, their wives and kids, in hopes of finding people to invite. Turns out only about six of the original movers survive. We did pull in about three of them into the event, along with wives and children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The best thing to come out of it? I can say all the hard work was worth the looks on the faces of kids standing in front of the engine with proud looks on their faces, waiting to have a photo taken. We've reached yet another generation. They've bought into it all... Newton railroading history, Engine 1880... assuring a loyal group who has emotional ties now, and no longer will think of the engine as a heap of black metal in the park.

Gotta love it.