Here we are smack dab in the middle of the long hot summer here in the deep South. I seem to be stuck on my memories of the past. " It was the best of times , the worst of times." Charles Dickens. As I thought this over I realized though I write mostly about the best of times, there were really hard times growing up also. It seemed I lived in Mayberry, but there was loss, pain, and stress even in my youth.
Growing up in a small rural town, we were surrounded by woods and fields. The parish I grew up in was known for its crops and trees. Many of my childhood friends had gardens in their families. Many of the families grew most of what they ate. Canning and freezing were a summer activity for many of the women. It was a classic example of rural South living.
Having already confessed to being easily entertained, the summer lightning bugs were a favorite evening entertainment. Remember we might of had a television, but we only received the signal from one station and the offerings were slim. Thus we often played until Momma finally called us in. As long as we were out of her hair and not killing each other, we were left to entertain ourselves. I have sat and watched and even chased lightning bugs many a summer evening. Catching a jar full to take inside to light up my room was great fun--poor bugs. They usually were tossed out the back door with the arrival of daylight.
During those years--in the 50's and 60's there were lightning bugs galore. I see a handful occasionally today. It seems the heavy use of pesticides, light pollution and loss of habitat has led to a worldwide decline. Our march toward the great civilization has robbed us of one of the wonders of my youth. This is only one example of one of God's creations sadly becoming extinct.
I am showing my age by mourning the simplicity and beauty of my youth. Yes, life was harder, but the reward of our labors was a simpler life filled with the beauty of God's creations. Where are we headed?
"And God saw everything that he had made,
and behold, it was very good.
And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day."
Genesis 1:31
I have so many fond memories of chasing lightening bugs, too, Lulu. Virginia enjoyed it so much when she stayed with us back in the day. Simple pleasures are the best.
ReplyDeleteBlessings!