Maggie

By: Vicki Tapia

I rarely read memoirs, but this one caught my eye because it takes place in Montana (1887-1941), and because the women in this family bravely defied the norms of their time. I am grateful for the sacrifices and suffering of the strong women who came before me and appreciative of women near and far that continue to fight for us… Thank you Maggie!

“But the groan and creak of the floorboards beneath me unleash a worn out misery which wraps its tentacles around my heart…” p5

“The day matched my mood, wearing its dreary, ash-colored coat, much the same hue as my drab grey skirt. The drawn shades and shuttered windows intensified the oppressive aura. I listen to the wind with its woeful cry, imagining the last of the autumn leaves furiously twirling into countless, miniature cyclones. Rain sprinkled the earth, grieving our loss with tears of its own making.” p51

“That cover keeps my skirt from catching in the chain, so this machine was built with a woman in mind. You can see the rubber tires even have mud guards to protect my clothes from puddles along the road. Finally, someone has given consideration to a woman's needs!” p162

“As I stared at the barren trees lining the streets, I was struck by how well they reflected my emptiness.” p235

“All of our choices are made out of either love or fear. And, fear is often disguised as practicality.” Jim Carrey p271

“… we have enough and they have little. Part of being a kind person is to share.” p297

“Please, God, I prayed, let my children's journeys be different.” p308

“It was Clarence's misfortune that my reserve of forgiveness for despicable husbands had finally run dry.” p324