My parents were born in 1929. They taught me the value of a dollar (because they did not have many): "A penny saved is a penny earned." They gave me a sense of civility: "Treat others the way you would like to be treated." They encouraged me to get more education (because their level of education was so limited): "An empty tin can makes the most noise"—so don’t have an empty head. "Read more and listen to all sides of an issue." And finally, "Fill your heart with love and you will never be alone." I am thankful for my parents’ words and memories, even though they are no more.

N.L. Gainer

Mathews, Va.

 
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