Along the Road

When I was growing up, we never had air conditioning. Not in our house. Not in our car. I never missed it because it really wasn’t a part of my world then.

Here in Nauvoo I have been reminded of what summer warmth is. The pure, humid, authentic heat of my childhood. Sure, our apartment is air-conditioned, but I really prefer my wanderings outdoors with the feel of my own body trying to cool itself.

There are the ever-present bugs, but hey – they were here first!

Today, I walked around ‘town’ before we prepared to go to the temple. We had gone to the gym and I thought I would get in a few more steps before showering. As I turned onto Main Street. I was talking to some of the Sister, Site missionaries when the 2 horses came by with the William Pitt Band in tow.

I looked up at them and began snapping my fingers to the beat. Their director, Greg Ferrin gave me a high 5 as they passed. Just as they rolled past my view, the background of the Tin Shop came into focus as Sister Croxford was sweeping the porch. She waved at the band and I almost looked for the cameras that must be catching this choreographed scene complete with a live soundtrack.

For just an instant I was an extra in an epic 1840’s story of a thriving, happy town. Truly there was so much energy and life in this restored town. I contrasted that in my mind with what must have been an identity as a dead town after the saints left.

Nauvoo is truly a special place. There is still a small air of sadness when one recalls that this was really the last place that the Lord tried to gather his saints as a hen gathers her chicks – but they would not. Metaphorically and in reality, the church fled into the wilderness of the west. To the Missouri and Illinois locals of 1844, Nauvoo was dead.

But today, it is very much alive. It is a simple place with all of the trappings of a simpler time. Thousands will come here this summer to see it. To feel it. Many will reflect on the story that is playing out. Truth will prevail. God will prevail. And He has set the stage he intended in the beginning. It is a blessing to be here.