Though the circumstances we find ourselves in can’t be helped, our attitude toward those circumstances matter. And though difficult situations can be frustrating, accepting them and prioritizing love for those around us allow us to achieve a more content, joyful life.
Great Old Governor
Billy lives in Elmville, where he is known as the son of “ex-Governor Pemberton.” The town honors old Governor Pemberton, who is respectfully remembered. The people “love to do him reverence for the sake of the past.”As the son of such a reputable man, Billy has tried for years to earn his own place in the town. He works hard as a lawyer; outside of Elmville, he’s known as a highly intelligent master of the law. He has even visited Washington and successfully argued cases.
Despite his renown outside of town, “the peculiarity and the saddest thing about Billy’s ambition is that the only world he thirsts to conquer is Elmville.” He wants the people of Elmville to appreciate him for more than being just his father’s son.
An Opportunity
Billy’s luck begins to change when he receives a letter from a very prominent source. He has been offered a federal judge position at a new U.S. possession: an island. Billy is overjoyed at such news because he can now pave his own course, earn his own merit, and achieve admirable goals outside of his father’s reputation.
When Billy tells his father about the new appointment, his father begins to regret the loss of his son, especially so near his life’s end. He assures Billy that his rheumatism has grown worse over the past months.
Even though Billy wishes to get out of his father’s shadow, he still loves his father and recognizes the duty and respect due to him. Hearing his father so upset about the judicial appointment, Billy cheerfully reassures him: “Don’t worry father. ... I’m not going to accept. Elmville is good enough for me. I'll write tonight and decline it.”
Billy accepts his place in Elmville. He discovers that he feels peace after showing love and gratitude to his father, and finally accepting his circumstances. He feels happier and lighter. Whether the people of Elmville realize the admirable sacrifices and acceptance which Billy has performed remains to be seen.
Through this story, Henry demonstrates that hopelessly crying over circumstances which cannot be changed brings misery and alienation, whereas acceptance and love bring joy and contentment to a previously dreary life.
Henry seems to say, as Wallace Stegner says in “Angel of Repose”: “Wisdom ... is knowing what you have to accept.” When we learn what we should and should not accept, we gain the ability to survey the people and world around us with kindness, contentment, and peace of mind.
As we contemplate the many circumstances that we find ourselves in, especially if unsatisfactory, we must remember acceptance. For acceptance emancipates us from the heavy load of dissatisfaction and helps us see a lighter future.
