So Long

So: four days since I posted anything - lo! And yet the sun, he still rose this morning, peeked over the edge of the eastern horizon and thanks be to goodness it did and that it looks to be warming up hereabouts. About time, too. Not nearly so chilly it was, but it was raining in Springfield, Illinois, on this day 150 years ago when Lawyer Lincoln, newly elected President of the rapidly disuniting States, and his family left there for Washington, D.C.

My friends, no one, not in my situation, can appreciate my feeling of sadness at this parting. To this place and the kindness of this people I owe everything. Here I have lived a quarter of a century and have passed from a young to an old man. Here my children have been born and one is buried.

I now leave, not knowing when or whether ever I may return, with a task before me greater than that which rested upon Washington. Without the assistance of that Divine Being who ever attended him I can not succeed. With that assistance I can not fail.

Trusting in Him who can go with me and remain with you and be everywhere for good, let us confidently hope that all will yet be well. To His care commending you, as I hope in your prayers you will commend me, I bid you an affectionate farewell.

Abraham Lincoln

February 11, 1861

Springfield, Illinois

You know, you only have to visit the Lincolns' home, walk about their neighborhood, to get a feel for what all they were leaving behind forever. Poor souls.