Story
It all started with a dream…and some Rocking Chair Money.
This is a story about the American Dream. Families that were born and raised in poverty, yet believed that we make our own destiny. They knew that their dream was achievable through a good plan and hard work. They would not settle for mediocrity.
Walter and Ruby Edwards were both born into poor families. Walter was particularly unfortunate as his father passed away when he was four and his mother was left to raise five children alone. They lived on a farm in Northern Alabama working as share-croppers. It was a difficult childhood. Ruby was born into a large family with strong values that farmed in the rugged hills of rural Tennessee. Although money was tight, both were raised with high ideals and believing in the American Dream.
When they met in 1946, Walter had just returned from war and moved to Tennessee to find work. Like most of the veterans, he didn’t have money or a job. Under the official title of the “Servicemen’s Readjustment Act”, the government gave money to veterans for recovery, relaxation and education. It was called Rocking Chair money. Walter would not use his money for recovery and relaxation, he planned to learn a trade. He wanted to be an electrician and used the money to attend electrical apprenticeship school. All his life, Walter knew what he wanted and he went after it. Eventually, he began a successful electrical contracting business.
When they became Christians, they put their faith in God to action by spreading the Gospel, helping those in need and working in the mission fields. They had a clear purpose and worked relentlessly to this end. They made a difference in many lives.
Walter was very successful in most all his endeavors. Still, being a true entrepreneur, he made mistakes along with way. He made a lot of money, lost money and gave more away. When he was 62, his work was done and the Lord called him home.
Ruby was devastated as she was left with deep sorrow and little money. Nevertheless, this did not deter her long. She pulled herself up using the few resources available and began the second chapter of her life. She became particularly passionate about her service to others. She continued their work of fostering children and those with disabilities by sharing her home for over 30 years. She worked diligently in the church and community, becoming well-known in the area.
A few years later, Ruby experienced a Lucid Dream which changed her life again. The Lord gave her a glimpse of heaven. This had a profound impact and she became even more focused on her life of service. She truly believed that a better life could be achieved by hard work and a clear vision of goals.
Ruby passed away in 2020 at the age of 95. She looked forward to her Lucid Dream lasting an eternity.
Continuing this legacy of Walter and Ruby Edwards, we want to make a positive difference in the lives of people who clearly understand their dreams and want to own them.