11 Comments

Dang Brent. You have such a way of writing and the memories you evoke. I enjoy the way your mind works. It’s good to have time to mull. We just need to listen better when we do.

Expand full comment

I love wild roses for the same reason: their scrappy nature, blooming against reason at times. Thank you for the truth in the tapestry you weave here.

Expand full comment

This is such a great flashback, the references to Ivan's and especially the roses. I too, am dated and a bit dusty, and fondly remember these roses growing around Toqua Lake in Graceville. I've pointed them out to grandkids when we've been on similar hikes or rides that I used to take as a kid. I don't think the young kids share the appreciation as much, but maybe will someday as they remember us!

Expand full comment

Speaking of unintended consequences ... this one made me think. A whole lot. Here's another ... I keep trying to photograph the perfect dusty rose. It's like looking in a mirror!

Expand full comment

Loved it, Brent! From the setting and the characters, to the larger picture, really a nice journey.

Expand full comment

Contemplating, makes you think.

Expand full comment

This hits very close to home. My best friend in the whole world is a direct seeder and planted an experimental cover crop. The wheat curl mites destroyed my wheat crops! Unintended but hard to not take personal! Thank-You for a timely message.

Expand full comment

Thanks again Brent, nice writing. And, Ivan was one of a kind!

Expand full comment

What a nice piece of writing. Moves so effortlessly from a dusty rose, to poignant memories, to important issues of the day. Well done, and thanks, Brent, you made me smile.

Expand full comment

My dad use to pick those flowers along the road and give them to my mom, I remember the smile on her face. Those flowers were made by god for many reasons. Love your writing brings back great memories!

Expand full comment

I have the same feeling for those tough roadside roses! They are so hardy, in spite of their adversity in the dust and dry conditions. I once tried to transplant one in my garden, but too no avail. I expect it is because it was in rich black soil, unlike the gravel, and well-watered. Now I admire them as they do their mini-salute as I drive by. I also remember Ivan Stern, and the fine men's clothing store he had when I first started teaching in Ortonville. Those quality men's clothing stores seem to be a thing of the past now. But, oh, how I miss the quality in both men's and women's clothing bought it such stores! Thanks for the reminders this morning, Brent!

Expand full comment