Mockingbird Memories

“Real courage is when you know you're licked before you begin, but you begin anyway and see it through no matter what.”  

-Harper Lee, To Kill a Mockingbird

On July 11, 1960, 53 years ago today, one of the best pieces of literature was published, To Kill a Mockingbird. I am not alone in saying that this book is one of the best books ever read. I read it in high school and then read it again later in life. Most likely I will be reading this book again in my life time. Then unlike most book/movie combos, the movie was pretty great too!

I have a special story about this book. My step-mom, Sandy, had never read it, and I felt that it was an abomination. I told her she should read it and I even found her a used copy to read. When I asked her about it, she said she just couldn't get into it. I asked her how far into it she got, knowing that she probably hadn't given it much of a chance. I was right. Her response was somewhere along the lines of page 5. 

So in the summer of 2011 I again asked her to read it and told her that in a way it helped pave the way for her grandson and the life he has now. (Way to pull on the grandma strings huh?) I left my childhood home with her sitting on the porch with her copy and started my five hour trek across the state.

Two hours into my trip I got cell service and called to check in. She was half way through the book! By the time I made it home, I had a text saying it was the best book she had ever read. I guess so if she read it in about five hours! I now have her copy.

That October my step-sister Ali, Sandy's oldest daughter, bought us tickets to see the play together for my birthday. Sadly, Ali was not able to go with me because Sandy was in the hospital. At the time we didn't realize it was the beginning of the end and I hadn't yet gone home to be there. I went with another good friend and despite the circumstances I enjoyed the play very much! It is by far the best play I have seen.

So not only is it a great piece of writing leaving us wishing that Harper Lee had written other books, it holds a special place in my memory and heart.

AND.... I have named a sweet kitty that loves me Atticus! If I could have a cat, I would totally take him home, but he has to live out at the ranch with his kitty family.