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Kermit, Texas Nov. 12, 1973 Dear Lowry & Hazel,
Recently I have been reading some of the writings of
Paul, and stand in amazement at the way he expressed himself and the marvellous truths and inspiration he still
gives. be different from another person's angle. For instance when I wrote you a few weeks ago and referred to the Shanahan family - I had and always have had in mind the Michael William Shanahan & Margaret Potter Shanahan and their children: Lena, Nora, Dennis, Luby and Sallie. They were our first American forbears. It is from them I have drawn so much happiness, pride and inspiration. In speaking of the Shanahan family to others I am never referring to my parents' family, or my brothers families--and especially not my sisters and my family for we do not wear the name. These families are alright but through tradition and love have always throught of the Shanahan family first as the wholesome family established by our grandparents Michael W. & Sallie Potter Shanahan. From what I have heard from Aunt Lena, Aunt Nora, Aunt Sallie and Dad Dennis their parents were a true love match and had a fine family that came to them after the Civil War. All three of my Shanahan Aunts I've loved dearly and received love and inspiration from. Had the privilege of knowing your mother, Aunt Lena, personally more than the other two--and how all of our family loved and enjoyed her. I remember that when Dad and sister Ruby were hurt when the train ran into their car that Aunt Lena came right away. She must have taken the first train out of Chillicothe. I know all of us were helped so much by her sympathetic, radiant presence. Your Stewart family was the only Shanahan kin that we got to see and enjoy very often. We loved every contact. Aunt Nora and I corresponded regularly for 35 years before she died. And it has now been 40 years that Aunt Sallie and I have kept up continuous correspondence. The amazing thing to me is how she can keep up with so many. It looks like keeping up with her 7 children - and I think she is now a great, great grandmother. Is this correct? Anyway she is an unusual person and I know all of her connections loves her so much. Do you suppose she'll live as long as our great grandmother Potter - later Tucker did? Was saddened that Ray is gone. But know he is in a happier, better place. Know all of you miss him so much. Just felt I had to write this letter of explanation - just in case I was misunderstood. Do hope you have a happy Thanksgiving!
Love, |
