The Mockingbird's Ballad

Lou opened the brown paper wrapped package about the size of a Bible. She noted the faded dark blue cloth-backed, cheaply produced book's title in silver gilt letters, The Pro and Con of Universalism, by George Rogers, Cincinnati, O. A caption on the first page of the book read - "an examination of the condition of man, the character of God and the hope of Universal grace. What can be the foundation of faith but love of, gratitude to and trust in a God who loves mankind?"

Between the next two pages was a folded piece of notepaper. It read: "My Dear Miss Fields, I would count it a personal kindness to me if you would read and consider the ideas in this book. Mr. Rogers traveled to many of the same places I'm now committed to go. Over 30 years ago he brought the gospel of universal salvation to dozens of hamlets, crosswords and towns from Cincinnati to Mobile. Like Johnny Appleseed, he planted a good fruit for the benefit of those hungry for sweetness in life. I've found his words and ideas most reflective of my own. My education is very limited. I am not a scholar. I have tried over the years since the war to prepare myself to dedicate my life to God's grace and the sharing of God's love, mankind's hope, with the people in and around the Tennessee Valley. With the general and boys, I had enough experience of war and death. I intend for the rest of my life to offer something good and needed. Mr. Rogers voices the ideas that inspire me. I feel commissioned to be about this work. Your prayers and good thoughts will be most appreciated."

"Your Servant, S. Stevenson General Delivery Montgomery, Alabama"

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Two weeks later a letter from Lou arrived in the Montgomery post office. Ten days later Solon retrieved it on his way through the Alabama's state capital. He was on his way from Brewton, Alabama to Meridian, Mississippi. He'd heard of some scattered Universalists over in fast-growing Meridian. It had become a railroading crossroads. Two weeks ago had found him in meetings at Camp Springs in east Alabama near Opelika, with the Burrus folks there. The economic and social upheaval in southeast Alabama, the whole central south, was markedly discouraging. The people responded well to his message. Because of the bad times, folks seeking hope was an idea Solon had come to understand. Setting his work aside, he began reading his letter.

"Mr. Stevenson, I trust this finds you in good health and that your work goes well. We are well and warm. Winter here is cold and wet. We had a sprinkling of snow two days ago.