Stories from Potowasso

The cultural upheaval of the 1960s and beyond was obvious and at times overpowering to the generation of youth fully enmeshed in its violence. Not only was the peaceful family image of Leave It to Beaver defunct, but the Beatles were raging on the airwaves, and nonconformity ruled supreme. Even so, there was peace and comfort in small-town life, sheltered from mainstream politics, war, and disruption.

Stories from Potowasso rekindles memories of a gentler time. Although told within the same time frame, these stories focus on small-town life, lived through the eyes of its townspeople. There was the time Pastor Quark discovered that being "one of the guys" during hunting season wasn't as easy as he thought. Or the time when young Butch, Runt, and Burhead struggled through unease at the approach of their first junior-high dances.

Life in Potowasso was simpler, slower, and filled with the wisdom of common sense. Although shielded from outside turbulence, the Potowasso church congregation was not necessarily shielded from personal turbulence. But their faith in God, strength of character, and unshakable friendships kept them strong. Times change, of course, but the basic lessons of life seem to always be there if you're willing to look and, most importantly, willing to laugh.