Epov (Chicago 1918)

“Edward, it's in my best interest that you keep a journal. The letter in there explains it all.” Mother handed me a brown journal, a letter tucked neatly between the cover and the first page. The journal was new and I could smell the leather bound cover. I examined the journal closely taking in every last detail. It was plain, nothing unique and yet it held a certain extraordinary capability that was unknown to anyone but me. I could feel it, how could mother not?

I pushed that thought aside. The real question has to be: Why a journal? Of all the things I could use, a journal? Not, that there was anything wrong with this odd gift. Mother always knew best and if it is a journal she wishes me to have and use, then it is a gift I shall keep for all my days.

I looked up from the journal momentarily and looked to my mother, a small smile on her face. “Mother, why a journal,” I questioned her. I could see her glittering eyes lose there fade as they had been doing everyday when father only seemed to be getting worse. It pained anybody to see this; their own mother becoming less and less of herself each day, slowly falling apart.

“Do you not like it,” Mother sadly inquired. “Of course, I love it Mother. It's just there is much more I would assume I'd get from you or Father. A journal was the last of it.”

“Yes, yes,” she breathed. “Now, I must get going. Your father will probably want his tea at this time.” In response to mothers prediction there was a series of coughs from my parents room, Father. “How's he doing today,” I asked even though I knew the answer. “Edward,” mother sighed. “He's only getting worse. Everyday I through the same thing. He's just getting weaker. Doctor say we'll have to take him in to the hospital. I feel there's no hope for him."

"No! He'll make it. There's a chance for him, as there has been one for many people theses days. He'll get better mother, I know it." Mother laid her hand on my cheek, rubbing away tears I had never know were there. "Edward," mother sighed, "I've learned to accept it, as should you."