Will Canton stood motionless at the top of the knoll in the old cemetery and gazed down toward the place,….that hallowed place, where Victor was laid to rest. He could still hear his laughter, when as children he would tease….. “C’mon little shadow, yer slower than molasses.” or “Git the lead out shadow, I ain’t got all day.”
It was tough on him when he heard of Victor’s passing. His unit was still on crucial duty in Iraq at that time and he couldn’t get away, not even for an older brother’s funeral. He remembered walking out in the desert alone to cry after lieutenant Saunders gave him the message from the Red Cross. It was a day he would never forget.
Will and Victor had always been close. As kids Victor always led the way, and true to his nickname Will would be right behind. It was Victor who taught him how to stand up for himself and how to throw a football. It was Victor from whose example Will learned courage and most importantly, it was Victor who led him to Jesus Christ. How he was going to miss his wonderful big brother.
The cool March wind blew through the cemetery ruffling his flak jacket and whipping up under his helmet. Will snugged up his sling to secure his shoulder weapon, and silently choked back his tears. Will listened to the sound of geese northbound in the sky and wondered to himself how out of place they were for his situation. His thoughts stirred for a moment and he mused over the fact that he should be feeling pain, yet there was none…..he should be hearing war sounds, but there were none.
In the quiet breath of a moment he felt a hand on his shoulder. He slowly turned his head to see a familiar and most desired presence.
“C’mon little shadow….” Spoke Victor with a wide smile. “Jesus is waitin’ and he ain’t got all day”.
(John 11:25-26)
THE END.
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Dennnis, I have goosebumps after this one. And I'm sure it was just a drop of Rogaine in my eye causing the watering....
You should check out my column "Gravesite Visit"...uncanny the similarities. I think you and I approach writing the same way. We both just really gosh dang love it.
:-)
May God bless.
Sincerely,
Dan Blankenship
