I was driving to the Woods this morning and thought to go by way of Makanda, Illinois. ‘Each fall, vultures soar and glide over Makanda and the surrounding areas and signal the beginning of fall and the arrival of the incredible fall colors of Makanda and southern Illinois. Vulture Fest features live music, food, shopping, and art by local artists for purchase.’ At first, I was dismayed at all of the people and the carnival-like atmosphere of Makanda until I remembered that it was Vulture Fest. The population of Makanda increased many times over… today. There was joy in the air. Children were laughing and their parents were in a ‘Country State Of Mind.’

Makanda sits just before the entrance to Giant City State Park…better known as My Woods. I thought that it was a good time to visit the restroom…as is most any time when you are old. Suddenly the door began to jerk not once but multiple times and then an oath that would curl your hair! So…I exited as fast as I could and a lady said that she really had to go…

Billy B could not believe that he was turning 16. As far as he was concerned 16 was an adult with all the rights and responsibilities there unto prescribed. Billy B had big plans. He supposed that if he could obtain a job that would pay him $70 per week he would be alright. He could move out on his own and proceed to live the life of a man. There was adventure to be had opportunities to be embraced and dreams that needed fulfilling.

Billy B had preferred the company of adults as compared to kids his own age for most of his youth. The responsibilities of being the man of the house had been his for some time. Billy B was 16 going on 66… He had taken note that life’s path had a multitude of twists and turns. Also, there did not seem to be a road map for the journey. That is what he liked so much about being a Christian. There was a surety and a certainty that came with the faith. Billy B wanted to strike out on his own and he knew that God was with him.

Well, 16 was a non-starter with Neva J but 17 was graduation from High School and Billy B began his trek to discover what following Christ meant for him.