To my late daughter, Rosalie (Elchert) Brickner, who inspired the title and the writing of this book.

I am laying it in tribute at the door of her mansion in heaven.

And to her six children I dedicate this book
Cary
Dennis
Anna Marie
Jaimie
Rebecca
Kathleen
who, each one, have a little of their mother's features, smile, and actions. They have her beauty of mind and soul, and for this I love them very dearly. And I am sure they will never disappoint their mother Is expectations of them.

Any resemblance between the characters in this book and persons coming from other large families is purely coincidental.

There He hangs, ashened figure pinioned to the wood,
Would that I could love Him even as I should.
I bend a little closer to hear His words divine,
And then I hear Him whisper., "Ah., foolish child of mine,
If now I should embrace you, these hands would stain you red,
And if I bent to kiss you, my thorns would pierce your head."

It was then I learned in meekness that love must have its price.
It was then I learned that suffering is but the" Kiss of Christ."

Author Unknown