It’s Black History Month. I wish to dedicate some of this month’s blog writings to Sally Ann Barnes. I met her when I was eight. She was 101 at the time. She lived to be 110. During my research into Sally I made lots of phone calls and visits to people who had known Sally. There was usually some little story about her. I wrote these up in what I called Sally Shorts. I’m hoping I can draw a picture to go along with the story.
The more I discover about Sally’s life, the more I admire it and want to emulate it in certain respects. One thing that I aspire to is the self-sufficiency. I think this aspect of her life came more from the time period in which she lived rather than a desired goal.
The general store, now vacant, still stands within a mile of what was once the Bonzo farm. Elmer Veech owned the store in the 1940’s and 50’s. Paul, the son, was often there tending to chores. He remembers Miss Sally well. Once a week she trekked the distance to their store on foot carrying her basket of eggs. Mr. Veech bought and traded with local farmers for their produce. Along with her basket, Miss Sally carried with her a list of items that she needed in exchange for the eggs. Even if Mr. Veech had more eggs already than he could sell, he always took Sally’s eggs and gladly wrapped the items she needed placing them in her basket. It was an honor.
The biggest thing I aspire to or wish to emulate is the honor of her life.
J. Schlenker 
That’s a great story. It’s nice that you were able to talk to this woman and help her carry on her memories.
Very interesting. You had a very wonderful connection with a very special woman.
Thanks for sharing your experience with all of us.
Reblogged this on idealisticrebel and commented:
A lovely story and connection. A must read.
A lovely story! Thank you for sharing 🙂
a woman of class.
A wonderful story.
I’m looking for the “Subscribe” button on your blog. I see the “Follow” button, but that only puts you in my “Reader” — it doesn’t generate an email notification for fresh posts.
I will try to figure out how to add it. Thanks!
It is always amazing to meet someone who you just know is going to have a profound influence on how you live your life. Some people just “pop!” and stay with us. Was Sally very old when she traded her eggs? Her story reminds me of reading about elderly Chinese people who work hard and maintain their lifestyles long into old age. It’s processes that need to be processed and to live a life that is full, honest, simple and complete is the ultimate 🙂 Thank you for sharing Sally’s story with us. I loved the picture of the basket of eggs. I wish our chooks would lay! 🙂
Beautiful story and love your connection with the eggs. Wonderful way to honor Sally.