19. Epilogue

 This has been a long journey for me, compelled by interest and propelled by love. I hope that Mr. Byron and Mrs. Esther's stories will live on not only in this book, but in the hearts and minds of all who read it.

The word inspirational is, in my  opinion, overused, but this book is meant not only to recount the lives of two Godly people, but to inspire you to let God take you on a wild ride. The lesson to be learned is to let the Lord lead you beyond the limits of your own imagination and into His will. For the Bristols that meant building bunk beds in their art studio and moving to a different state for no apparent reason. It meant giving up friends, security, even common sense. My goal in creating this book is to commemorate  the Bristol's courage and God's goodness as seen through their lives. I pray that my mission has been fulfilled.

This was far from a one-woman show and I would like to thank all of the people who helped me carry through with this project. I greatly appreciate the ever-present support of my family and the technical assistance provided by the Young girls. I am very grateful to all who gave me pictures, information, and insight. Vivian Barber, Nellie Childress, Laurie Desautels, and Judy Williams have been invaluable sources of information. Most of all, thanks to Mr. Byron for all of his time and dedication to this work and to Mrs. Esther who so wisely wrote down so much when she had the chance. I will remember the Bristols for as long as I live—as friends and as true inspirations.