The thought of politics also made her think about the straw poll she had her students do right before the presidential election. It was a close race between Richard Nixon, Hubert Humphrey, and George Wallace. Nixon managed to win—but by a small margin to become the thirty-seventh president. Most of her students voted for George Wallace, who carried five southern states: Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Louisiana, and Mississippi.

Justin voted for Wallace, Alex for Humphrey, and Jorden for Nixon, representing three different political views. She could tolerate Humphrey but couldn’t understand how Justin could give his vote to Wallace. The world was changing, and Justin seemed to want to stay in the past, while Alex seemed to push for a more united future.

Jerked out of her thoughts, Jorden heard her mother calling.

“Come on, Jorden, we’re going to be late. They’re just starting the processional to the cemetery.”

Today, her mother’s wish was her command.

Chapter 25: January 1970

Chapter 25

January 1970

The longest leg of the trip to Hawaii lay in front of Jorden. She gained three hours when she touched down at the Los Angeles Airport; she was now on Pacific Standard Time.

The waiting area of Gate 4 was packed, but Jorden managed to spot an empty seat. A family was seated across from her and appeared to be in a deep discussion about their Hawaiian vacation. The two teenage girls seemed to know what they wanted and scoffed at their parents’ plans. Jorden smiled as she thought about her own family last Christmas.

***

Previous Year – December 24, 1968

The trip from Selma, Alabama to Trenton, New Jersey took two days. They reached their doorstep minutes before the start of Christmas day.

“We did it. Good driving Dad!” Jorden clapped, with her mother joining in. Grant Marshall looked tired, but he was fit for his fifty-six years.

Bobbette, Jorden’s sister, greeted them at the door. She had the flu and hadn’t gone to Uncle William’s funeral. “I’m so glad you’re back. Come on in. It’s cold out.”

“How are you feeling?” Mary asked her older daughter.

“Much better. Mark made the best nurse.”

“I bet he did!” Jorden quipped.

“What’s that supposed to mean? You’re hateful!” Bobbette covered her mouth to cough. “I should give you the flu!”

“Girls, you haven’t been together two minutes and listen to you bicker!”

“Mom, we’re not fighting. Jorden just has to get in her digs.”

“Well, enough! You hear me?”

“Got it!” Jorden gave her sister a look which said, “We’re not kids anymore!”

“Where is Mark? I thought he’d be with you on Christmas Eve?” Jorden asked.

“He left early to join his family for the midnight Christmas service. His family opens their presents Christmas Eve and he couldn’t miss the excitement.”