The Banner of Feud

In 1953 . . .
The Warrens and the Turners have been friends for decades. They are next-door neighbors. It’s Christmas, and the families are having their annual party. There is a large banner saying “Merry Christmas!”

They greet each other without noticing that a mischievous Warren boy named Nathaniel, who is tired of harmony, has written: “The Warrens are unworthy of Turners” on the sign.

The Warrens are furious at the Turners. Then they all notice a phrase added to the sign: “Turners are below unworthy.”

The Warrens and Turners have been bitter enemies ever since.

In 2021 . . .
“Grandpop! Tell us the Turner story!” The children surround Nathaniel, now an old man.

Felicity Warren, age nineteen, wonders at Grandpop’s blush. Felicity knows something is wrong. Grandpop always gets a little bit odd when he speaks of the Turners.

After the tale of the feud, Felicity draws Grandpop aside. She and he go to the kitchen.

“Grandpop, tell me the true story. Now.”

Grandpop blushes again, takes a deep breath, and begins. “As you know, I was a boy at the time of the feud. I was tired of peace and wrote upon the sign. I must confess to the family and ask pardon of the Turners!” Felicity is saddened by the tears tugging at her Grandpop’s merry eyes.

Grandpop tells his tale to the other Warrens. He opens the door and marches next door. All the Warrens follow.

“Madame, I have something to confess,” says old-fashioned Grandpop. Many Turners come to the door. Alan Turner, age nineteen whom Felicity secretly knows, steps aside with Felicity.

Grandpop confesses, “I caused the feud. I longed for trouble. I’m sorry.” The silence that occurred next felt not unlike the silence of recent decades.

Grandma Turner brings out frozen lasagna from the freezer, and everyone shakes Nathaniel’s hand!

Alan speaks, “On behalf of all the Turners, we will forgive you if Mr. Nathaniel Warren will agree to my request.” Alan walks across the room and whispers his request to Grandpop. Nathaniel nods.

Alan kneels down. “Felicity, will you marry me?”