With “the other guy” out of the picture, the way was clear for Nate’s letters to take on more boldness. He kept busy studying and trying to care for 72 college freshmen in an atmosphere of escalating racial tension on campus. And his letters became longer and arrived in my mailbox more frequently.
As for me, I decided a good antidote for a broken heart was to go shopping…. for a new car.
Nov. 1, 1968 – Dear Nate. Guess what! I’m in the midst of finalizing a deal on a Corvette Sting Ray sports car of my very own! My brother-in-law Berv is helping me. It’s used, but what P-O-W-E-R and what jollies driving to work in it! YEA! It’s bright red, and a convertible. Poor Dad – at first he was dead set against it, and now he’s giving me the loan I need to make ends meet. Either I’m good at persuasion or he’s full of love. I think the latter. I love him, too.
Nov. 4, 1968 – Dear Meg. Did you ever think how much maturity and intelligence it takes to realize you’re not ready for a permanent emotional commitment yet? I think a great deal. It took courage and maturity to break up with (him). You’re prudent to date others and change cars (congratulations on the Vet!), and to keep active in your church work. Keep your mind on your future rather than on past romance. And by the way, there’s nothing wrong with going out with young boys. I’m 10 days younger than you….
Nov. 10, 1968 – Nate, are you pleased or dissatisfied about our new president? It’s good to know all the mumble-jumble of the campaign season is past. Our close friend, the Lord, knew all along that Nixon would win. I’m pleased that the entire thing is in His hands. Whatever happens now, we know things are under control, because look Who’s controlling! I’ve applied these same thoughts to my situation with (the other guy) during these first weeks without being attached to him. Every so often I get a terrible pang of missing him, but those moments are less and less. Before long I should be completely over it. Mary and Bervin have been sooo fantastic, and a letter of encouragement, such as yours, is a great uplifter. You don’t know how much. Nate, you’re really nice.
Nov. 20, 1968 – Meg, thanks for the photo of you and your Vet; both of you are beautiful. We had a little excitement which disturbed many of my residents. I spent much time calming people down. One young man was stabbed (a 6” arm wound down to the bone) by three other students. No arrests have been made yet, but my residents don’t want the thing to escape prosecution. Racial tensions are high. Your letters cheer me up and remind me (quite pleasantly) of their sender. I think of you rather frequently and would love to see you.
“There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear.” (1 John 4:18)