As Chicago teachers began their historic strike, I walked the picket line with fellow faculty members but mourned over lost time with my kindergarten children. I loved teaching them and couldn’t wait to see them each day, so as I circled the school, I wondered who was caring for them. Concerning teacher contracts, for all practical purposes I had mentally made the move to downstate Illinois and already saw myself teaching elsewhere.
May 22, 1969 – Dear Nate. The teacher strike has been nothing but verbal whippings and tongue-thrashings all day. I’m sick of hearing everyone screaming without listening to the words of anyone else. I’d quit, but if we do get to go back to work, I’ll need the money. Besides, I’ll need a good recommendation from our principal. Last night Mom and Dad came to my apartment after I got home from my ed class. Mary and Bervin also came, along with Aunt Agnes and Aunt Helen. We had tea and warm rolls at 10:00 and talked till 11:00, but it didn’t work out to tell them about our plans. I did arrange to talk at their house in Wilmette tomorrow evening. I’m nervous, but am anxious to let them know.
May 22, 1969 – Dearest Meg. The head resident has praised my work with my 72 men this last year. He said he would recommend me for one of the head residencies next year, which would be good for us if I got one, since they are paid positions. But there are many others competing for very few slots.
May 23, 1969 – Dear Nate. I finally met privately with Dad and told him all about our intention to get engaged this summer and marry in January… or sooner, if we could work it out, like September. The two of us talked for 4 hours, hashing out the details and getting everything above board. He asked me lots of questions. On the way back to my apartment, I felt like taking the Corvette up over 100 mph, because the bottom line is that Dad approves! He feels we might be rushing to marry in January, but with time, he’ll come around. So, the stage is set for you to talk with Dad or with Mom, too, if you want. I’m filled with joyful expectation!
May 23, 1969 – Dearest Meg. (As you can tell from the typing in this letter, I’m using a vintage typewriter, 1958.) In spite of finals, I’ve tried to write you every day, because I feel so close to you while I write. I think of you all the time and love you very much.
May 23, 1969 – Dear Nate. I love you with all of me! Often I feel I’ll burst if I don’t get to see you soon! I’m so glad I will… (see you soon, not burst). I’m praying for your finals, for the calmness and presence of mind you need.
May 25, 1969 – Dearest Meg. Thank you for coming to see me while the teachers continued the strike! Being with you for two days was fabulous! It was depressing when you had to leave. But the picnic at Allerton was great; Meg and barbecued chicken! I’ll see you next week – future wife, glamour girl, future mother, Christian woman – and I’ll have a talk with your father. It’s important that I talk to him first, before your mother.
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” (James 4:10)