CHAPTER three — PATERNAL INFLUENCES

My search for peace drew me back to the paths of my ancestors. In 1855, my great-great grandparents, Edvinna and Andrew Young, Sr., courageously followed their dreams and traveled west by covered wagon to find their homestead. They were one of the first families that settled in the Nebraska territory. The Young heritage instilled in me an old-fashioned pride for a job well done.

While the Youngs took great pride in their accomplishments, they never forgot that a higher power was directing them. As Great-Great Grandmother wrote in her journal in 1856..."after being attacked by an Indian, in my helplessness I called on God to defend me. I know God heard me for He has been my helper all through my busy life.”

My Young ancestors conveyed a spiritual awareness that aligned with my own. As I retraced their journey, it was clear that they, too, had many bumps and detours, but steadfastly kept their eyes on their dreams while listening for guidance.

Like his ancestors, my dad was a very strong man. He was warm and loving, but when he was displeased, his dark side could appear. At times his anger was harshly unleashed. As a child, I was often afraid of him; but one day when I was an adult, I summoned the courage to tell him that I was no longer afraid of his anger. His jaw dropped—he paused for a while and then smiled at me with pride and respect. I never saw his dark side again.