I’ve thought a lot about how much the past affects our present. It influences everything: cultural differences, lifestyles, the way we speak, the way we dress, what drives us to succeed, others’ perceptions of us, and a host of other things.
Believe me, because of where I live, I’ve heard just about every hillbilly joke there is. I usually smile graciously and go on because I truly don’t believe its people’s intention to knowingly diss anyone’s heritage. We all have beliefs that we unwittingly attach to geographic locations and those who live there.
I’m proud of where I live so I do blend much of my heritage into the novels I write.
People in the Ozarks are some of the friendliest bunch you’ll ever run across. We may be down-to-earth, but we’re not dry as dust. We may have a bit of an Ozarkian twang. It gives us character. If we say “howdy” it means we like you. If you’re new to our neck of the woods, we might just bake you a cake and deliver it to your door. Neighbors still do that here. If the preacher says “Glad to have you today” then you better be back next Sunday ’cause you’ll be missed. And if you want to know what we eat here in God’s country, here’s a little sampling: country fried steak and mashed potatoes with thick cream gravy, angel biscuits slathered in honey butter, garden fresh green beans, and anything else we can fit on our plates. And just so you’ll feel truly at home, we’ll invite you to dinner and, of course, let you wash a dish or two!
In the contemporary, faith-based romance series I’m creating, I’ve proudly embraced my Ozarkian roots, taking care to weed out any of those stereotypical weeds that may want to encroach from time to time.
Let me ask you a question: When you looked at the photo above, did you form an opinion? Be honest. Because people respond to visuals, we can’t help but form ideas and opinions about what we see. It’s only natural.
Though few of us live in rustic log cabins anymore, our ancestors did, and this is a glimpse into their world. They weren’t wealthy. Their initial dwellings might have been primitive at best. They taught us resilience, perseverance, integrity, and love. They lived out their faith in mighty ways and challenged us to do the same.
Their legacy endures through us, and I enjoy creating fictional characters who live my ancestor’s stories in the contemporary world.
All they needed--a stove for cooking and plenty of dishes!
A room for sewing, complete with a view.
Master bedroom/living quarters. All the space one would need.
This little cabin now graces the grounds of Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri.
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What are some preconceived notions that we might have about where you live?
Comments 2
When I saw that picture, my first thought was that it could have been taken in West Virginia, where I was born and raised. And then I thought, what a great place to vacation! I think I’ve heard all the W.Va. jokes, and still hear them from time to time when someone learns of my sordid past. 🙂 What a legacy Birdle has left behind. Thanks for sharing.
Author
Yes, I often wonder about Birdle Mannon and who her ancestors were, Patti. What stories they could tell!