S.I.L.O. Internment: Jennifer’S Arboretum

By C.L. Piacquadio

S.I.L.O. INTERNMENT JENNIFERS ARBORETUM is about a motherless child, Jennifer, who desires to join her elusive father in his quest to preserve Earths seeds of life. She accompanies him into the SILO complex which takes her away from beloved family members and friends.

After years of confinement, and two months before they are ready to depart their internment, Jennifer and the Silo crew members existence is tumbled upside down. Their personal, emotional internment becomes an actual physical internment. Without outside communication, What seems like a lifetime; Jennifer, James, Stephen and the SILO Crew must continue living in their enclosed protective S.I.L.O. complex until it is safe to venture out. They must reinvent their INTERNED lives.

Heart-felt, secretive prayers to God and relying on His Holy Spirit, for guidance, are their true strengths.

• Language: English
• Publisher: WestBow Press
• Release date: Apr 27, 2016
• ISBN: 9781512736595

C.L. Piacquadio

C.L. Piacquadio has always been fascinated with fiction, science, survival and preservation of Earth’s environment. In caring for Earth’s trees and wildlife she stresses: Psalm 96: 11-13 “Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad; let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof. Let the field be joyful, and all that is therein: then shall all the trees of the wood rejoice Before the LORD: for he cometh, for he cometh to judge the earth: he shall judge the world with righteousness, and the people with his truth.” KJV Preserving the seeds of life enriches faith in God.

Book preview

PROLOGUE

Jennifer was absorbed with James’ Botany and environmental studies. Often, when they were alone, he bounced his SILO ideas off her. She did not need to have answers. He had the answers. All he needed was someone to listen.

After he finished packing, James left to get his car. While he was out, Jennifer hid sticky notes all over his study notes and in his briefcase.

These notes were Love notes from daughter to father. They were encouraging notes, prayers and Bible verses.

Deeply Hidden in her written words was Jennifer’s desire to join James in the SILO (Survival Inhabitants and Living Organisms) complex for five years.

She developed her Arboretum to show him, without words, that she understood his mission to protect the plant life of this world for the survival of human life.

She knew her father might consent if it was alright with Uncle Charles, Aunt Amanda and Uncle Robert.

Jennifer had to know the right words to convince them. In three years, she would be ten years old, mature enough to join James. She desperately needed to confide in Sarah and Grandmother Hanna during their visit. They would tell her what to say and do.

CHAPTER 1

Heather’s Messages

Dr. James Bjorn’s wife, Heather, had been gone for three years but the loss was still raw for him. Her talent for hiding small Biblical notes in secret places always reminded him of her eternal love for God, him and their daughter Jennifer.

Just today, Dr. James Bjorn was in a hurry to rush away from campus and be on his way to visit his family. His arms were loaded with class notes, a laptop computer, and architect sketch tubes. He did not realize there was a trail, of small sticky notes, dropping quietly behind him.

Helpful students quickly retrieved the encouraging Biblical messages of hope and love. This gave them a chance to speak a while with James and to wish him a great summer.

At this moment, all James could do was laugh, thank them and say,

Heather is still sending me encouraging messages!

Afterward, James loaded his items in the back of his SUV and exited the campus parking lot. Once on the road, the laughter faded and tears began to pour. How he missed Heather and how she would have loved him to relay the story about discovering these concealed notes.

When he arrived home, his lonely evening was greatly occupied by the S.I.L.O. (Survival Inhabitants and Living Organisms) American Project research.

James was mentally exhausted and he drifted off to sleep. His dreams were of massive notes, diagrams, calculations and Heather.

James’ heart craved reminisced scenes shared with Heather. These dreams were his most peaceful dreams. These dreams encouraged him to meet new challenges of each day.

****

In a recent dream, James laughed as he watched Heather explaining soccer moves to 3-year-old Jennifer. At three, repetitious actions are more effective than words. Heather’s brother Robert, and James’ friends, Kateri and Emmett were watching also.

While Jennifer practiced the soccer moves, Heather moved close to James. Her freckled skin glistened and her crystal blue eyes glowed with great tenderness. She whispered in James’ ear, James, I will love you forever. Then, she gently kissed his cheek and said, Be vigilant, James. Protect Jennifer.

Heather easily slipped away from his arms and slowly glided away with Kateri down a floral lined road.

James’ heart ached to call out to Heather. He could not. He knew she was gone. Hot tears washed over his cool cheeks. He awoke from this dream and sat up. The dream was not a good one. He covered his eyes and cried out to God,

Dear Jesus, I am worried Teri is ill. How can I help her and Emmett, my God? They have been such a blessing to me and my family. How can I help Jennifer? She loves her Aunt Kateri and this will break her small heart.

He threw back the covers, ruffled his thick red hair, got out of bed and on his knees. He took a small unused Bible from the nightstand drawer. A yellow note card marked a special page. He had never used this particular Bible so he did not know what to expect.

He closed his eyes visualizing Heather praying with him. He lost her three years ago, but he felt her presence everywhere. He opened the Bible and on the note was printed,

For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.

Isaiah 55: 12 KJV

James pondered this passage and his strange dream. He also thought about his last visit with Kateri, two months ago. She had a long, serious talk with him. An old illness had returned and Kateri sadly expressed to him,

You must step up and become the father Jennifer needs. I can’t care for her any longer. This breaks my heart to the point of death.

Kateri took a deep breath and with tearful eyes, she continued, I haven’t told Emmett. I have pancreatic cancer, James. I’ve spoken to your brother Charles and Amanda. They love Jennifer and want her to live with them. This will allow you to continue your research.

Kateri knew pancreatic cancer was usually quick and the treatments would cause her to stay away from people; especially the children.

James loved Kateri and Emmett as family; bound by the spirit of God, for over twenty years. They shared a strong bond with Heather and were wonderful guardians for Jennifer.

He hugged his friend and whispered, Little sister. The painful words were sticking in his throat. You’ve always been so strong for me. You kept me going so many times since Heather died. I want to be here for you and Emmett. What do you need me to do?

Kateri sighed, gently touched her heart and spoke softly,

"I need you to be a good father for Jennifer. Let her grow up with Charles’ family. She needs the love of family around her. Visit her often. Write her and phone her often. She needs you, James."

She sighed again and continued, Be a good friend to Emmett and Stephen. They need your strength during this time. Pray with them often. My life is in God’s loving hands.

All these thoughts led James to sense things were getting worse for his friend. After he showered, he phoned Emmett.

The news was grave. Kateri was given no more than a month to live.

*****

After James lost Heather, he seemed to lose his luster and joy. Laughter was rare and he had a work-consumed look about him; as if he was mentally working on a huge math calculation. His work and research, gave him little time to share with Jennifer, family and friends.

Kateri and Emmett loving cared for Jennifer so he could give his research his full attention. Now they needed him to lovingly care for them.

The sun was just barely beginning to rise when James phoned Heather’s brother, Robert. James knew Robert would want to accompany him on this visit with Kateri and Emmett.

Robert, a local priest, arrived at James’ apartment in twenty minutes. He was bound to Kateri and Emmett through James and Heather. Their spiritual bond was constantly strengthened by joys and tragedies. And, he loved Kateri and Emmett for caring for Jennifer in memory of his sister.

Heather was Robert’s whole world and his only family. When she died, his world was crushed. He really felt like an orphan until Kateri, Emmett, James and Charles’ family wrapped their love around him. Robert was no longer alone. Now, he shared the love of his friends and Heather’s child

*****

As James drove, Robert focused on his Bible and penned notes pertaining to certain passages. Little conversation was needed between them. Their thoughts were on their friends.

The rising sun shone softly through tree-lined roads, relaxing James’ troubled spirit. Momentarily, dread and worry no longer existed. He gradually eased onto a well-packed dirt road which lead up to Emmett’s ranch.

Three energetic, high-stepping horses galloped along the corral fence toward the barn. Breezes blew back the horses’ manes; exposing large, black, anxious eyes.

Ahead of James, a burst of colorful herbs and flowers lined the patio and walkway.

Has it been so long since I have been here? James thought as he slowed to a stop and stared at a vision of Heather stooped down in the dirt; smiling and looking at him. She was laughing with Kateri as they planted seedlings.

James, Robert said softly, pointing towards the house. The vision was gone. Emmett was in the driveway waiting. He knew James was coming but the presence of Robert was a blessed surprise.

Emmett’s face lit up. Tears poured as he hugged Robert; strength to strength. Thank you, Robert. Thank you for coming.

Huh, James said. What am I, an orphan?

Emmett’s tears cleared as he laughed and said, No Brother. I knew you’d come. Teri would never forgive you.

CHAPTER 2

An unexpected visitor

Robert and Emmett went off to talk privately as James walked toward the Living Room. He quietly stood in the doorway watching Kateri sort through piles of photos. Her hair was covered with a colorful scarf to cover hair loss. Her face was so pale.

Kateri stopped a moment to show her mother, Hanna, a photo. It was a picture of Heather holding Kateri’s son Stephen. As a toddler, Stephen followed Heather everywhere. Kateri spoke Cherokee to Hanna, I’m surprised that Stephen allowed James to marry Heather.

Hanna looked at the doorway and smiled warmly. James was always like a son to her.

Kateri turned and looked into the warm eyes of her beloved friend. Her face lit up as she teased, It’s about time you show up. I need your help here.

James smiled and quickly kissed Hanna; then he sat next to Kateri and embraced her. How did you know I was coming? he asked, looking deeply into her golden brown eyes.

She placed both hands on her heart, I know you, James. I know you’d never abandon me, Emmett or Stephen. She smiled and tenderly kissed his cheek. I expected you here at 5:00 am!

He laughed, at the thought of getting up at 5:00 am, and asked, What are you doing here? How may I help?

I’m sorting photos because Stephen and Emmett will never find the time to do this, she answered, pulling a photo from the pile.

This photo showed Kateri and Heather drying herbs and spreading seeds to dry. Heather loved learning and she loved to teach. She handed the photo to James and asked, Do you ever dream of her, James?

He nodded and whispered, Often.

Kateri looked at him with glistening eyes and whispered, She visits my dreams day and night. I miss her so much.

James gently hugged Kateri. She felt so fragile.

Hanna stood up, took James by the hand and said, Come cook with me, James. We haven’t done that in a while.

James nodded, kissed Kateri’s forehead and said, We’ll be back.

Kateri smiled and returned to her photo project as they left the room. She intently studied the loose photos, then a smile crossed her face and a far off look filled her eyes. She did not notice the unexpected visitor watching her from the doorway.

A fragrant, jasmine scented breeze blew gauzy curtains away from the open window. Kateri looked up in the direction of the doorway. She quickly rose off the floor and ran to Robert.

Robert, she said softly, I prayed you’d come. We need you, Robert.

Robert held her close and whispered, Whatever you need, dear friend, I’m here.

Heartfelt tears lined Kateri’s golden-brown eyes. Robert, I can’t care for Jennifer any longer. I’m unable to keep my promise to Heather.

She bowed her head and cried with such sadness.

Robert lifted Kateri’s chin and spoke softly. Heather loves you, Teri. You’re her spiritual sister through your mutual love for Jesus and God’s words. She might be gone to our eyes but not to our spirits. You made the right decision of sending Jennifer to live with Charles’ family.

He gently dried her eyes with his plaid shirt sleeve and kissed her forehead. Now let’s see what you’re doing with all these photos. What can I do to help?

Kateri led Robert to her project area and explained her method of placing the photos in binders so that they told stories for a later time. She wanted these for Jennifer and Stephen to keep for their children.

She watched as Robert studied the photos.

Heather was Robert’s life confidant and he rarely confided in anyone else. So many thoughts came to his mind. He and Heather were orphans early in life. They were very close. Losing Heather was like losing a part of Robert’s heart. Seeing photos of her smiling face reminded him of her ebullient, charismatic personality.

Without Heather’s encouragement, Robert faced today’s cleric battles alone. Today, Federal laws invaded the churches. Clerics were prohibited public expression of faith, such as open prayer and clerical habits. And, Self-expression, regarding government issues in churches, synagogues, temples, or mosques risked the loss of tax-exempt status.

Robert associated with clerics, who voluntarily sacrificed the tax-exempt status, took pay cuts, reduced luxuries and took extra work outside of the church to support their income.

These sacrifices were made to promote the word of God and to encourage people to keep their faith regardless of hardships. And, through God’s blessing, attendance at these churches multiplied.

Kateri appreciated that Robert left his recent assignment to be with her, during her last days. This was an answered prayer. It calmed her spirit. She knew Robert would be a great source of encouragement for Emmett and Stephen after she is gone.

Suddenly, Robert’s warm laughter broke into Kateri’s intense thoughts. He was looking at a photo of Heather smiling and holding a huge turtle.

James, Hanna, and Emmett quickly came into the room to see why Robert was laughing so hard.

I don’t remember the story behind this photo, Teri, Robert said as he wiped a tear from his eye and handed Kateri the photo.

She passed the photo to James and he shared it with the others. And then she told the story,

Heather and I were heading down this beautiful country road outside of Fair Bluff, North Carolina. It was a beautiful, early, summer day. The road had no traffic; except for a lone, elderly, tractor-driving farmer; slowly chugging along, heading toward us on the opposite side of the road.

Kateri took a breath and suppressed her own laughter at remembering the scene. Heather spotted a dinner-plate sized, adult turtle slowly crossing the highway. She yelled, ‘Teri! Watch that turtle!’

Kateri paused and looked at everyone who knew Heather. You know she couldn’t leave it, at just passing the turtle. I stopped the car. She got out, picked up the turtle, and returned him to where he started.

Kateri touched her cheek and a wide smile brightened her face. I couldn’t help myself, but I reminded her that the turtle was going across the road again, if he was put back where he began.

Kateri fought back a giggle, You all know that look Heather got when her mind explored the outer reaches of the universe. Everyone started to laugh. They knew Heather’s crystal blue eyes glazed over and her freckles sparkled when she was overwhelmed with deep thinking.

She got out of the car, checked the traffic and found the turtle, in high weeds, where she put him. I took this picture before she placed the turtle on the opposite side of the road, and cheerfully waved to the approaching farmer. The Farmer smiled and tipped his hat. Then we were on our way; elated that we saved the life of that turtle.

Robert smiled at the photo and said, Even as a child, Heather loved turtles. Our guardian, Uncle Bruce, used Heather’s pet turtles to instruct her about faith, and trusting in God’s direction in life.

*****

Later that day, when Kateri was able, she stressed to James and Robert their awesome duty was to protect Jennifer. They needed to be a greater part of her life.

She showed them a brief video of Jennifer packing to leave for Uncle Charles’s home. Kateri gave Jennifer a small briefcase filled with a small Bible, graph paper, sketch paper, colored pens and pencils, crayons, chalk, a small chalk board, ruler, compass, and protractor. This case also had writing paper and self-addressed, stamped envelopes ready to mail.

As Jennifer looked over the contents of the case with deep interest; she clearly recited Kateri’s exasperation prayer in Cherokee,

O, My God, please be a guard over my mind, heart and spirit. Fill me with Your presence that I may serve You well. Amen.

Kateri looked at James and Robert and said, Jennifer needs both of you now more than ever. She is a treasure who must be protected and nourished. You both have to imitate Heather; saving that single turtle. Only, this tiny turtle is Jennifer. Keep her safe. Her family is her world.

The next day, Robert went shopping and returned with seven small turtles for Kateri to focus on. She loved this gift. She had James and Emmett design a special, portable, container for the turtles. She named the turtles and sent them, as a gift, to Jennifer.

CHAPTER 3

Memorials and new beginnings

Kateri did not survive the struggle of Chemo Therapy. She wasted away rapidly.

Charles’ wife Amanda was thankful Robert’s visit eased the fears Kateri had about losing her family and Jennifer. Robert prayed and laughed with the family, and he stayed