The early morning summer sun radiated brightly across the countryside. Birds were heard in the distance singing melodic overtures. The ambiance of nature’s majesty filled your senses, awakening you to a new day of opportunity and happiness. On this picture-perfect day, the family had planned to caravan in three cars in quest of old abandoned farmhouses.
Three cars were loaded with snacks and beverages. My grandparents would be in the lead vehicle, then my dad and mom in our car. My uncle and aunt followed in the rear. I always chose to ride with my grandparents as I could sit in the middle of the sedan’s bench seat. My grandmother never failed to fulfill my requests for Lorna Doone cookies, Kool-Aid and Clove chewing gum.
As we gathered for the Saturday road trips, my grandfather had investigated an area within driving distance where many homes sat abandoned for decades. I was told by the adults that there were those who alleged that these homes were haunted and as a result they would never consider crossing the home’s threshold. Unfazed by legend or lore, our family fearlessly invaded the premises.
Once a place on the property was found to park three cars, the hike through the weeds and tall grass began. Quite often it would take over 30 minutes to arrive at the old home. When everyone had made the sojourn, a careful inspection was made to determine a point of entry. Typically, the floors of the home had fallen through, and it was a danger to enter. However, we never had an accident.
The family’s ultimate goal was to find dilapidated homes with furnishings and artifacts that would be of value. Without fail, old dishes, pictures, farm tools and clothes were found. This Saturday adventure precipitated enough antiques to fill three car trunks. Once we arrived back home, the antiques would be refinished and placed in our homes. There would be occasions when they would be sold.
As I reflect back upon these Saturday activities long ago, I realize that the family had trespassed on somebody’s property and took their belongings. Although I cannot remember seeing a “Do Not Trespass†sign nor were we ever confronted by law enforcement, I know we took property that had belonged to others. I also remember the adventure being labeled by my family as, “heisting.†Could it be that abandoned property did not have legal prohibitions 60 years ago? Maybe this was deemed acceptable?
Through the years these memories have fortified my “true north†and moral compass. While my family was hardworking, tax-paying and law-abiding citizens, this guiltless adventure was brushed aside as harmless fun in a world long ago passed away.
Today we live in a world that struggles with black and white ethical standards. Moral absolutes have become nebulous. Standards are under constant revision. With this “new normal†comes a world confused, unstable and unhinged.
The Bible is the firm foundation that God wants His people settled upon. One does not need to wonder what God says about a certain matter, you only need to take the time to search the Scripture for a definitive answer. The “Anchor†of our souls is the immutable, inerrant, inspired Word of God.
A return to “The Old Black Book†is what our society needs today. Let us learn the principles, precepts and doctrines that transform lives for the Glory of God and the betterment of society. Wouldn’t it be a blessing for our nation to be rooted and grounded in The Book?
I continue to reminisce about those gorgeous summer days long ago. What a joy it would be to load up the family and caravan to a family reunion. God bless you on your journey this week.
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