In the first few chapters of this book, it is very apparent to me that the concept of a strong family unit is very important to Linda and other characters of the story. Interestingly, it is the gospel message that unites and bonds Linda (particularly to her grandmother) and her family. While they may be separated for a time, being sold all over the south, their hearts remain united to one another and there is always hope that they will be reunited with one another.
I find it interesting that today families are disintegrating. This logically doesn't make sense to me. During the slave era, in which Linda and her family lives, they had all reason to despair of life. Today, families live in luxury and opulence but are falling apart every moment. It seems that life should be easy-breezy for modern families and difficult for Linda's family, but the exact opposite is true.
So I pose the question...what is it about Linda and her family that keeps them so united in heart?
I think the answer is that Linda has put her hope in God, trusting that He will rescue ALL His children and one day they will be together again. Many families don't believe this today. So the only reason that Linda and her family were able to not lose hope is because of their faith in an Almighty God. No wonder so many gospel songs were written during this era. These people know in Whom true hope exists.
This teaches us that despite our circumstances, the Lord will see us through. So take heart! Do not despair! We have a lot to learn from Linda and her family. I'm excited to share with you as I trace the theme of hope and family dedication throughout the rest of the book.
Maryssa, great speculations! I agree that what kept Linda's family together as a strong unit,regardless of distance, is that they had the hope that is found in Christ. Although her current situation did not seem to allow room for that hope, Linda's grandmother consistently reminded her of the better days ahead, of the justice they would soon have.
ReplyDeleteMaryssa,
ReplyDeleteI agree with your suppositions. I also think that perhaps the fact that the southern slaveowners and the whole institution of slavery was devised to stamp out the familia feelings. The slaves were treated as animals, maybe even less than animals. A great way to continue to control is to take everything away. You hear of men who try to control their girlfriends or wives by alienating and separating her from anyone else. That makes them totally dependent. This is the type of thing that they tried to do. They also tried to destroy the African American family unit by separation.
Yes, I agree Cindy! I hadn't thought of that. I think that the slave owners were trying to strip them of all their humanity. That's why they were shipped from Africa like cattle, often the majority of them dying before they even reached land. I think one of the only things that kept them together was their personal faith in the Lord. What a great testimony to His faithfulness!
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