Chapters 31 through 33 Summary and Analysis

Chapter 31: Gifts of Compassion

Several weeks after Willie's death, Mary found a notebook full of letters that Willie had written. They were letters to friends and coaches. He thanked them for their friendship and support. Mary had no doubt that they were good-bye letters. He wrote a letter to President-elect Obama and even one to himself about the great life he'd had and his gratitude for his wonderful family. Senator John Kerry of Massachusetts called with his condolences. Singer/songwriter Carole King wrote a song in his honor. The community grieved for the loss of one of their fine young men.

Mary clung to her faith and reminded herself to believe in God's promises. God kept the family from falling apart. Mary came to believe that Psalm 23:45 - "Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death...