Blossoms of Love (62 page)

There were many tears in the eyes of the people. Then Jimmy went over and stood in front of the casket. He looked out over the crowded room but his eyes went to Robbie and Barbara. Jimmy said, “I asked to speak today because I have lost the best friend I will ever have. He adopted me when I was seven. He gave me the affection and love I never knew existed. He taught me the right way to live. I know I can never be the man he was but I will spend my life trying. My brother Robbie wanted me to say that he feels the same way. Goodbye Dad.” He stopped talking because he was crying.

At the grave side a few words were said. David knelt down and said, “So long buddy.”

Barbara was a very strong woman and Mrs. Ellman threw a rose in his grave, “I love you my son.”

When everyone was leaving, Barbara asked to be alone for a few minutes. She knelt down by his grave, “My heart is breaking today and as the days ahead, it will be an empty heart. I promise I will do my best to take care of what you have worked so hard for. Our sons will be alright for you have already taught them the values of life. Oh my darling, I died with you but the blossoms of our love will live forever. Thank you my love, for letting me share my life with you. The memories of you will be sweet and will live on in my heart. I love you. Oh how I love you. I put you here because this is where you asked to be. Rest my love. May you have peace on this mountain of yours and someday I will join you. Goodbye.”

It was very hard for Barbara to try to go on without Lamont. With David, Jesse, and Sara’s help and Mom Ellman, she began to manage. All of Lamont’s brothers and their wives were a big help too. Twice a week, no matter how bad the weather was, Barbara went to visit Lamont’s grave. She would spend at least an hour, depending on the weather, kneeling beside his grave and talking to him about things that went on since she’d talked to him last.

As time passed, Jimmy stayed on the ranch just as Lamont knew he would. At the age of twenty one, Barbara let him take Lamont’s place. Robbie went to college. He wasn’t too interested in the ranch. He entered medical school. Everyone in the family said Robbie will be another Paul.

Barbara died eight years later. She was coming from Lamont’s grave when a snake frightened her horse. The horse threw her and she broke her neck.

Just a little ways from the west end on the mountain lies two graves. Engraved on the big stone over their head says, “The blossoms of our love will never die.”

GOD BLESS

The End