Wow, Fran! What a series!! It's been such a privilege to get a glimpse into your family's story.
The shadow of Joseph is so intriguing to me. We have a few of those in my family. Digitised records have a way of bringing some secrets to life, but not all.
Congratulations on this series, Fran. I love the way you have interwoven Frances' life with that of her son (your Dad) who it is just as much about in many ways. It did leave me feeling a little like I wanted to know more about Joseph and why he was so absent even when he was there ... an absence that was clearly impactful on those who should have felt his presence - how fortunate your father was to have Lester in his life. I love the way you have used the gift of a bible from mother to son to frame this final part.
Thank you for such thoughtful feedback Jane. I feel the same about Joseph. I feel there is still more learn about him and hopefully I will be able to create a clearer picture of his life moving forward. I am also considering dedicating an article to Lester too who has a fascinating story of his own.
An astonishing story up to the end and written so movingly. I feel like I know these people and lived with them.
This series is a real artistic achievement. If someone were to ask: “Why do you love Substack so much?” I could just hand them this story.
Wow. What a story!
Thank you Jill!
Wow, what a hard go of it Frances had. Sounds like your dad was very lucky to have Lester in his life. Beautifully told Fran.
Yes Lester was such an influential person in his life. Thank you for reading!
Like others have said Fran, such an emotional journey and beautifully told.
Thank you so much Paul. It really was an emotional journey. One I am very glad I went on.
Wow, Fran! What a series!! It's been such a privilege to get a glimpse into your family's story.
The shadow of Joseph is so intriguing to me. We have a few of those in my family. Digitised records have a way of bringing some secrets to life, but not all.
Can't wait to read what you have lined up next!
Thank you so much Dallas! For following along until the last chapter and for always providing such wonderful comments!
Congratulations on this series, Fran. I love the way you have interwoven Frances' life with that of her son (your Dad) who it is just as much about in many ways. It did leave me feeling a little like I wanted to know more about Joseph and why he was so absent even when he was there ... an absence that was clearly impactful on those who should have felt his presence - how fortunate your father was to have Lester in his life. I love the way you have used the gift of a bible from mother to son to frame this final part.
Thank you for such thoughtful feedback Jane. I feel the same about Joseph. I feel there is still more learn about him and hopefully I will be able to create a clearer picture of his life moving forward. I am also considering dedicating an article to Lester too who has a fascinating story of his own.