Who were These Peculiar People

Who Were These Peculiar People Who were these peculiar people, with light and faith so strong…. Why did they sing “All is Well”, when everything seemed wrong? Their journey to America had been a wrenching quest. There, too, they had to leave their homes and sailed toward the west. Too soon the ‘new found freedom’ did not apply to them, Nor did the nations music, “The National Anthem.”. They wanted total freedom; to have choices was their cause. Peace and understanding meant they needed to have laws. Who were these “peculiar people’ who walked toward the west, And pulled behind them handcarts with so very little rest? Driven from their livelihood and precious homes so dear, Traversing icy rivers, with very little fear. So many had been beaten, so many others died; Their faith was strong, they always knew that God was on their side. I stand so reverent here, upon a silent, mourning hill; Craggy rocks that jut above the beauty of the rill. Gazing at the river winding like a snake below; And rutted hand cart trail, from many years ago. They said they had a Prophet, who was killed in Carthage jail But still his counsel to them was, “Move west we will prevail” Already torn and broken, they set out for the west Babes in arms and in the womb…they still did forward press. The wagons held provisions with little room to ride, The sick and injured pioneers endured, but many died. They crossed this lonely landscape, which lies before my eyes So many good and kind willed folks, sent prayers up to the skies. Mothers laid their swaddled babes into the frozen ground. They prayed that by wild animals, they never would be found. These pioneers so desperate sent out the harried word In faith they knew their message,” to get help”, would sure be heard. A rescue team arrived they found the sick and starving there. They all worked quick because there was no time to spare. I now gaze down upon the river moving deep but slow, Young lads had joined to carry them through river, ice and snow. Their sacrifice and love for man was so very clearly shown, They lost their feet, but saved the lives of those who were their own. It causes me to ponder long, these folks that were called “Saints;” What was their part in history that makes my heart feel faint? The sweet calm spirit that I feel as I am sitting here, A sacred place, of sacrifice, these saints must be revered. From an experience at Martin’s cove, Wyoming IlaMae Stucki© 4/28/10