5 - DR. NEIHARDT

DR. NEIHARDT

21 x 27 inches

(John G. Neihardt—born in 1881, died 1973. Nebraska Poet Laureate for 52 years)

Dr. Neihardt lived with my Aunt Myrtle and Uncle Julius the last years of his life while they lovingly helped him write his autobiography. I was thrilled to meet him in the early 70’s. Even though his physical stature was diminutive, his presence seemed bigger than life. As he studied one of my pen-and-ink drawings of his face, in his full booming voice he asked, “Why did you draw me?” His forceful manner surprised me; it contradicted my reserved upbringing. With some trepidation, I told him I felt compelled to draw him after seeing then strength of the lines on his face—they showed the depth of his spiritual wisdom. I quietly sighed with relief when he was pleased with my answer.

At Grandpa’s funeral, Dr. Neihardt eloquently shared his spiritual belief that after death our spirit is free to soar through the universe as an eagle flies. To honor Dr. Neihardt, I wrote the following poem.

The Spiritual Word Sender (by Suzanne Young)

With passion-filled verses the Spiritual Word Sender soared the cosmic awareness, sharing his spiritual knowledge. A man with divine wisdom who spoke with intense passion. But forewarnings of his flesh alerted him that his great change was soon to come. So came the Youngs, his loving caretakers who quieted his fluttering and directed his soaring. Pleased to assist him, they lent their bent hands, lovingly toiling to record Dr. Neihardt’s history.

Julius and Myrtle—carriers for The Spiritual Word Sender.