Some of my fondest memories, however, were of my running to meet my father when he came home from cutting trees in the forest. He would grab me with his strong arms. And I can still remember that axe he loved so well. My father, Ben, was amazing. He was well known for being able to predict the weather. He would show me things about nature. He knew all about the rivers, creeks and swamps. He taught me about the berries in the woods, the cries and songs of birds, and the sound of their wings when they made sudden flight. I really loved the freedom that the animals had. And I also learned about using the North Star as a guide while walking at night.
Both of my parents were very honest and known to never tell lies. But they were good at telling stories. I often heard Bible stories about Moses and the Egyptians. And I heard songs about "Go Down Moses" and tell old Pharaoh to "Let my people go." Old folks would also talk about runaways and slave-revolts. They were very careful, though, when they talked about the slave revolt led by Denmark Vesey. Because after that, we could not be seen talking in groups. And we always dreaded the rumors of being sold down south.