Words from Home and the Road

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."