1963
(Lincoln County, West Virginia)
The weeks following the death of my dad truly tested the foundation of our family's faith. Life as we knew it would never be the same. Frank Lemaster was someone whom I was grateful for. He was momma's rock, and our family once again felt a deep sense of loss.
The farm ceased to hold its charm as a new beginning was forced upon us. Dad loved everything about farm life. That's all we ever knew. Momma was devastated. She lost her greatest adventure partner and the love of her life. She would have to go on while carrying the precious memories in her heart. The one fact she held onto is that she would see him again one day.
As a family, we would stick together. Jesus would help us through, for He has always been the good shepherd that we could trust in through every part of life.
All of my mom's siblings came to visit us often. Aunt Della doted on us especially, and she was the best cook. Momma confided in her a lot. They prayed together. I often watched from afar.
"It's hard knowin' Frank won't be walkin' in the door," Melda said, as she sat in the living room. She reached up to her red and puffy face to wipe away a fresh flood of tears. Della reached for her hands and took them both in her own.
"He was a good husband. A great father. He loved life so much. Y'all had such a great love story". Della, responded, her voice cracking as she spoke. "Nothing will be the same, but I know he would want you to keep on keepin' on." Della's eyes began to tear up. "But how do you do that?"
"I know. I feel so lost without him. He left a big hole in us all." Melda said with a tearful sigh. "I don't wanna be without my adventure partner."
Della hugged Melda as hard as she could. "I can't imagine what you're going through. It'll be different" Melda dabbed at her eyes. "But Gordon is around, and the girls at the shop. There's no tellin' what God has in store for ya." A small grin spread across Melda's face. "I reckon I just hate havin' to sell some of his farm equipment. I don't know if this is what God wants or not. I just want to know why this had to happen."
(Hillman's Dress Shop, Charleston, West Virginia)
The next few days back at the shop were hard for momma. She found plenty of comfort and company in her friends and the loving customers who had heard what happened. In the next moment, she saw Cookie come in the door. An important-looking lady was with her this time.
"That's the lady I was telling you about." Cookie said excitedly, as she pointed out momma. Cookie waved and they quickly rushed over to the counter.
"Excuse me miss, Cookie tells you're the designer of these lovely articles of clothing." The woman smiled. " I just love coming in here, though I don't believe we've met.
"Yes, and no I've not seen you before". Melda smiled nervously as she reached out a hand. "I'm Melda Lemaster. How do you do?"
"I'm Rosalie Combs" the woman replied. shaking Momma's hand. "You're quite a talent." Momma laughed softly. "Well, thank you...wait, as in Governor Combs?"
Rosalie held a friendly gaze. "Yes. It's lovely to meet you!" Momma couldn't believe it. "What can I do for you today Mrs. Combs?" Momma was happy to help customers any way she could. Only wishing her hair had been combed better.
"Listen, I was wondering if you'd be interested in working for me as a seamstress." Rosalie smiled as Momma looked at her with a nervous gaze. "Now you don't have to give me an answer right away. But I just love your designs."
"Oh...I don't know..." Momma began.
"You take a few days to think it over," Rosalie said with a hug. "You're really good."
Melda knew this could be the start of a great adventure. She drove home that evening with a new idea of opportunity for adventure.
Rosalie Combs. Being a seamstress for her would be a dream. But it's a big step. What if I can't do it?
"What is the one thing you and dad always taught us, kids?" Gordon asked, reminding his momma just how much he really was like his dad.
"To go on any adventure?" Momma offered, with a slight smile.
"Yes, but also to always have faith in Christ through everything." Gordon sat at the dinner table, as he continued to eat the roast dinner in front of him.
"I know Gordo, but this is a big deal. It's not a small thing." Momma spoke as she sipped her coffee. "I haven't decided what I'm going to do yet."
"Well, I think you should go for it. Even if you don't know what God's plans are, you go after what life has to offer." Gordon got up from the table and hugged his mother. "Just trust Him, momma. He'll always take care of us, I just know it."
Melda kissed her son on the cheek. "Gee, when did you become so smart?" Gordon laughed. "You can do it, mom, I know you can."
Rosalie entered the shop as momma was finishing her workday. A few days had passed and she had made a decision. She knew this would be the right one for her and Gordon.
"I've decided to take you up on that offer," Momma said excitedly, as Rosalie walked over to her.
"Fantastic! Oh, this is going to be great! You'll see!" Rosalie walked with a hop in her step. "I'm so excited to have you! I know Cookie will be thrilled to see you again." Momma smiled as she was finishing her tasks for the day. "I can't wait. I have a son who is a great encourager."
Rosalie laughed. "I know all about sons." She placed her hand on Momma's shoulder. "New adventures are always somethin" Momma sighed with contentment as she opened the front door. They both stepped out as Momma closed the door behind her.
"When can you start?" Rosalie asked. "As soon as you need me!" Momma knew this right. She had prayed every night about which road to take. She knew that every thing would work out the way the Lord had intended it.
The uncertain nature of life can throw us for a loop. Sudden goodbyes to what is familiar are never easy. Sometimes we have trouble sharing our deepest thoughts with the One who loves us most because the world wants us to be fearful of a new outlook or a chance at a new opportunity that would bless our lives in unexpected ways. Our family would never be the same. That was for sure. But two things always remained: Jesus would always be the good and faithful shepherd in our lives, and momma and I were blessed with the love and company of each other. His faithfulness in answering our prayers in uncertain times proved the strength of His love. His devotion to listening to our every word through it all showed how much He truly cares for us. His remembrance of our deepest sorrows provides a glimpse into how well He knows us. His presence provides the greatest comfort. Whatever the future held for us, we would continue to place our faith in Jesus Christ and His great plans for us.
The good shepherd was leading us on to yet another great adventure. Trusting in Him, we would cast all our cares into His hands.
Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you." (1 Peter 5:7 King James Version)
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