I would drive past it every day on the way to work---for the last 25 years or so. A sharp lookin structure in the years gone by but time and the elements have taken their toll. Once a proud structure that was taken care of by the owners --it had been neglected in the last 10 years, I guess.

The roof leaked, board siding needed renailed and PAINT! Nobody ever painted the old landmark! The structure, an old corncrib, was built out of oak [Illinois Pine] native to our area. A "pull through" parking spot in the center with crib on both sides. On the east side was a "shed" roof that covered another parking place which was filled with "stuff".

I'd really been watchin it recently as the roof had almost fell in and I had even taken pictures of it. Comin home Sat pm we noticed that it had "given up the ghost" and fell in on the west end. No sad farewells by the present owners- to the old dude-some boards fell off the west end and have been kinda kicked up into a little pile awaiting the dryin out so it will burn. The east end with the "shed roof" full of stuff---well -it's stil standing but not very strong or straight or proud. It too is awaiting another big wind/rain storm to relieve the tension of "standin up" to the world. I know this ain't very earth shattering news but thought some body might like to hear about it.

West of this old structure is a big barn. The roof is off in places and has been for several years. This was an elegant structure that was functional and good lookin to boot. Neglect will claim it also within a few short years.

All this reminds me of our lives on earth. When we neglect our bodies by whatever means we employ---it's just a matter of time till we "fall". Almighty God didn't make us to be that way. He gave us a Purpose in life and we need to embrace it most vigerously! Tellin others about Him and the Plan of Salvation is of utmost importance. Are you "takin care of business" for Him? How about for yourself?

Like the old corncrib--we will eventually "fall" but until then we need to hold our heads high and be proud of who we are----HOMESTEADERS!!!! old hoot. Matt.24:44

-- "old " hoot gibson (hoot@pcinetwork.com), October 16, 2001

Answers

This jarred a few memories and thoughts. In the neighboring town of 8,000+, our old High School had to be demolished. Many came to see this landmark torn down. Much sadness that day. Afterwards, some slipped behind the barriers to get a brick for a memento. Same thing happened in our little village. The old St. Mary's school was no longer functional and had to be torn down. No good for anything anymore. It was in a flood plain. Anyways, there were some not so good memories from there. The best memories were the times we learned about God. For that I am truly thankful. I fear for the young ones nowdays because I can see what is happening here. Families don't teach the kids about God. No religion, no church-going. What used to be standing room only outside when I was young, is now but 5 to 10 attendees. I have to admit that I was very lacking in raising my children in the Lord. Now I have grandchildren and have seen my children not instructing their little ones. I know I'll be held accountable for this someday and want to start teaching the grandbabies. Any suggestions? There is a lot of resistence from my kids regarding God. I do pray alot about this.

-- Jean (jat@ncis.net), October 16, 2001.