Historical Setting, The farm cottage in the Vosges
Greg has no interest in hearing a lecture on gratitude for Haberd’s keeping the farm in good order. He dismisses our chat with, “we are all glad you’re back, Papa.” Kind as it sounds, Greg does have his own elder brother edge gnawing here at the peace.
Now Hannah’s turn to speak with me is wedged in among all the tasks of organizing the family feast. Haberd’s wife seems relieved by this reprieve from her most helpful sister-in-law while Hannah takes this bench by the fire to talk with me.
“Hannah, I know your mother has appreciated having you with her in my absence. When we made that little cottage by the creek, I never imagined Ana would have to be alone there.”
“Papa, I can understand why you wouldn’t be very good at noticing other people’s mortal needs.”
“That’s gracious of you Hannah. How have you been?”
“Momma and I have both been busy calling on the sick, and minding the needs of people all around. We’ve been going out on our calls together now that Momma is getting older. She tires more easily but she is still strong and able to work.”
“And how have you been, Hannah?”
“What do you mean?”
“I ask you how you are, and you tell me how everyone else is. You are always very good at noticing other people’s mortal needs. But, what of your own mortal needs?”
Hannah bows her head so I don’t notice her quivering chin. And I know her need is this father’s hug to wipe away her tears. She is always the strong arms of strength for everyone else. And here she is now, in my arms sobbing. The youngest grandchildren come to watch this, and the five-year-old pats her so very tenderly.
“What did you say to her, Papa?” Haberd accuses.
Hannah regains her composure to answer for me, “It’s nothing Haberd, just leave me alone,” and she goes outside to be alone.
“I just asked her how she’s been. Maybe that’s a question she isn’t accustomed to answering.”
“Hannah is always fine. She is just Hannah.”
Haberd makes this weary excuse for this blind habit we all may share in, taking Hannah for granted. She keeps her vulnerability hidden in all her good works. It’s not that no one thinks of Hannah, rather it is that everyone doesn’t.”
(Continues tomorrow)
Lazarus Ink 