MORE THAN A POCKET WATCH

November of 2012, Uncle John gave my pa a pocket watch. There was a letter folded in the package, explaining the story.  

Erich, 

What makes this story powerful, is not so much the story of the watch, but when it took place. Uncle Harwood had gathered his living siblings together at Grandpa Halberg's house on the St. Croix, to discuss Grandpa's fate. I don't recall who all was there, but it included Uncle Harwood and Dad... I'm not sure who else. I was there, but not in an active role... I was just a kid. As they, the brothers, talked, it was becoming clear that Grandpa could no longer live there... he would have to go to a nursing home. The feeling in the air was that of sadness. 

As this discussion is taking place, Grandpa was in his little bedroom by himself. Unexpectedly, he came out of his bedroom... every one, except Grandpa, was sitting. All eyes turned to him, no one knew what to expect, and there was a breathless silence. Then, Grandpa began to tell his story... 

'When I graduated from High School, my father wanted to give me a pocket watch. I told him that would be nice, but what I really needed was a new suit of clothes. So that's what he gave me. Then, when I finished college, my father wanted to give me a pocket watch. I told him that would be nice, but what I really needed was a new suit of clothes. So that's what he gave me. Then, when I graduated from Seminary school, my father wanted to give me a pocket watch. I told him that would be great... and that's what he gave me.'

Then Grandpa, who had used this watch his entire adult life, explained that he wanted to give the watch to Avery. He also expressed the idea that he wanted it to go to the first born son of each generation. Then Grandpa went back into his bedroom... that was the last time I ever saw him totally lucid. It was a magical moment. 

Years later, Dad gave me the watch, and told me the story... even though I was there, I loved hearing it. Then, since I will not have a son of my own, I gave it to you. When you feel the time is right, you can give it to our dear Aharon... and the story will continue... 

Hope this helps Erich. I love you very much.
Your brother, John