I am not definite in my mind as to precisely where the heavenly ramparts are located, or of what gorgeous and wonderful materials they are constructed; but they are somewhere very high above us, in an inconceivably beautiful and peaceful place. They are for the convenience of those loving spirits, whose interest it is to lean upon them, to look down in compassion and anxiety on the world which they have left. Now, it seems to me that these same released spirits are not going to have a truly joyful time on these same ramparts, or anywhere else on the broad plains of heaven, if the people they have left behind them, the people they have loved and in whom they have believed and trusted, are going to fail them in carrying to successful completion the work they were forced to leave unfinished.
The thoughts of all these spirits, as they watch us from on high should be an inspiration to us to treat their works, their ideas, and their ambitions with a vast respect. We can do no nobler work than to carry on reverently, sincerely, and faithfully.
--Gene Stratton-Porter
Likely published in McCall's, Vol, 53, Aug. 1926, as “Gene Stratton-Porter’s Page: Ramparts.” Clipping from the collection of Rev Jesse Halsey.
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