Rachel's Journey

Finally, Grandma Sarah continued, “Rachel, this is really about your life, but I think we would all be untruthful if we did not admit that a part of us wants you to go and bring back our families to us. But even if that does not happen and I die here without ever seeing my Sophia again, I want you to go and have a chance at a life. You are strong and brave and a quick thinker. You are your only chance for a different life unless God intervenes in another way. But every one of us has been praying about this for many years. It is your choice; we just wanted to prepare you in case you want to go.”

Grandma Sarah sat back exhausted. Aunt Patty looked disappointed--the party was not so cheerful now. Michael looked confused. Everyone else looked sad.

“How would I know which way to go? I mean--if I decided to go.”

Señor Carlos again spoke up. “Well, we know which way we came in. You would set off in that direction. You would not have to find Bellavia necessarily. If you found any village, you would at least be able to start a new life. And, of course, they may know of our country and the situation right now with the king.”

Mrs. Lambert said, “You would have to promise, Rachel, that if you did not find Bellavia, you would settle down and live a wonderful life and just remember us in the past."

Rachel stood, “I would never promise that.” She sat quietly, thinking. No one else spoke. Finally, she continued, “Here is my promise. I will go, but not just for me. I will go for each one of you. If God has told you to send me, then He will lead my path. Whatever obstacles I face that you have not taught or trained me for, God will be there. If God takes me away from you, He will bring me back to you. And that is my promise to you.”