“Many have received credit for the quote, “Age is a matter of mind. If you don’t mind it doesn’t matter.” My Dad said, “Once a man and twice a child.” I didn’t understand that phrase until watching the elderly slip from vibrant working individuals into the phases of later life when hair is thin, teeth are gone, eyesight is dimmed and walking needs help. The list can go on but in essence you came into the world with little hair, no teeth, eyes that were good but couldn’t walk or talk.”
– an excerpt from the book
ARPress is honored to publish “The Spare: Part 4” by Marsha May Fairchild Sumpter. This book is now available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and the ARPress website.
“The Spare: Part 4” is a deeply personal memoir that explores the themes of perseverance, familial bonds, and the emotional complexity of holding onto one’s heritage. Marsha May Fairchild Sumpter weaves a tapestry of stories that reflect the challenges and triumphs of managing a family farm and the enduring lessons passed down through generations.
This book serves as a tribute to the sacrifices made by previous generations and a call to appreciate the value of heritage and hard work. Through vivid anecdotes, Marsha reminds readers of the enduring impact of decisions made in the past and their reverberations through time.
Marsha May Fairchild Sumpter brings her firsthand experience to life with the wisdom and warmth of someone who has lived the stories she shares. Raised on the family farm in South Dakota, Marsha grew up surrounded by the values of determination, resourcefulness, and respect for the land.
Her memoir is an homage to her parents and grandparents, whose vision and resilience shaped the future of their family. Through the pages of The Spare, Marsha captures the heartache and hope of sustaining a family farm amid the challenges of modern times. Her meticulous attention to detail and gift for storytelling makes this memoir both an emotional and educational journey.
Marsha recounts her family’s tireless efforts to cultivate and expand their homestead, demonstrating the rewards of dedication and strategic planning. From her grandparents’ daring move to the Dakota Territory to her parents’ meticulous stewardship of the land, the memoir underscores the profound connection between the land and its caretakers.
Through candid narratives, Marsha reveals the complexities of managing a family business. Conflicts, differing visions, and the weight of responsibility are recurring themes, offering readers a realistic portrayal of the sacrifices required to maintain unity and purpose.
The story teaches the importance of perseverance and long-term planning. It shows how the choices made today impact future generations, emphasizing the need to honor and preserve our legacies.
“The Spare: Part 4” by Marsha May Fairchild Sumpter delves into the later stages of life, offering insights into aging and the inevitability of death. The narrative reflects on the “winter” of human existence, highlighting both the challenges and blessings encountered along life’s journey.
The overarching moral lesson emphasizes the importance of resilience and gratitude. By embracing life’s trials and appreciating its blessings, individuals can navigate the complexities of aging with grace and dignity.
This installment continues the author’s exploration of personal growth and perseverance, themes evident throughout the series. For instance, in “The Spare: Part 1,” Sumpter reflects on the significance of choices in shaping one’s destiny, encouraging readers to consider their own decisions and potential for growth.
Similarly, “The Spare: Part 2” recounts the author’s early marriage, marked by challenges that were overcome through commitment and determination. This narrative underscores the value of steadfastness in the face of adversity.
In “The Spare: Part 3,” the focus shifts to the family’s return to the ancestral farm, symbolizing a journey of compromise and commitment. The story illustrates the complexities of familial relationships, and the resilience required to preserve family heritage.
Collectively, the series offers a profound reflection on life’s various stages, emphasizing that through resilience, commitment, and gratitude, individuals can find meaning and fulfillment, even amidst challenges.
“The Spare: Part 4” by Marsha May Fairchild Sumpter is now available for purchase via ARPress Bookstore: