At Rest: Short Stories of Remembrance contains my second story written with the Collierville Christian Writers group. This year, we chose to write fictional stories about someone who has passed. How we approached our story was entirely up to each of us.
I am fascinated by the history of the yellow fever epidemics and their profound effects on life here in Memphis. In Memphis Mosaic, the theme was landmarks in Memphis, and I chose to write about Elmwood Cemetery and the yellow fever epidemics. My story was based on facts but told from the perspective of an old White Oak tree. For this anthology, I stayed with Elmwood Cemetery as my setting and included yellow fever, influenza and COVID epidemics in my story.
My story, The Heart of a Healer, is about a young woman who passed away during the yellow fever epidemic and whose spirit is lingering in Elmwood Cemetery to assist other victims of epidemics to accept their fate and pass on. This perspective allowed me to trace epidemics through the years and consider what someone might say and think during the different time periods. Epidemics (plagues) are not new and can be traced back to biblical times. I enjoyed writing this story and I hope you enjoy reading it!
There are 20 stories for you to read and enjoy! You will find profound grace, unexpected humor, and enduring love in these pages.
