Chasing Gold, Finding Faith

The paper was weathered and stained. I held it gently in my hands. Tenderly caressing the torn edges. I lovingly handed it to my Dad.

"Where did you find this?"

"Granddad gave it to me. Can I go find the treasure?"

My Dad smirked.

"You realize this is pointless?"

"No it's not, Granddad said there's treasure in our backyard." I was defiant. This was not something I was used to being. I was much more comfortable being dutiful than defiant. My 8 year old cheeks grew hot.

"Son, your Granddad isn't well. He forgets things." My Dad tousled my hair.

My fists clenched, even at 8 I knew when I was being dismissed.

"But he told me!" I stomped a foot for added effect.

My Dad sighed wearily.

"Ok, but you have got to..."

I'd torn our the back door before the sentence was finished. I ran to the shed to grab my shovel and pail.

I centered myself in the backyard and glanced at the map. I surveyed the yard.

Apple tree, check.

Bushes, check

Rose garden...hmm no rose garden. I scanned the area. A mound of dirt where my construction tools and toys were strewn. Some dead vegetation protruded.

Tap, tap tap!

I looked up and there in the bedroom window was Grandad. He had a mischievous smile and a twinkle in his eye. He gave me an enthusiastic thumbs up. I waved acknowledgement and scampered over to the dirt mound.

I spun the map. Double checking the layout before my next move.

Ten paces from the rose garden. I took measured strides.

Five paces right. I counted them off and came to a stop. I could feel that I was in the right spot.

I looked up again at my sentry. Granddad had his thumb up again!

I smiled and threw down the pail and began to shovel. Dust and dirt flew. The grit hit my teeth and I didn't care.

What was I going to do with the treasure?

20 minutes passed. My digging continued.

I heard the back screen door open but my focus continued to be on the dig.

"Son, there's no treasure. Your Granddad is sick. Come inside."

I ignored my Dad and my blue plastic shovel kept on flinging the dirt.

My Father lovingly touched my arm. I kept digging.

"Steve, stop!"

I looked up at my Dad. Tears began to form.

"No it must be here." I croaked out the words.

Then...CLINK! My shovel had hit something. My heart leapt.

Tap, tap tap!

Granddad was doing a jig in triumph.

I smiled the widest smile even as tears rolled down my cheeks. My Dad looked up at the window and I heard him say "I don't believe it" under his breath.

I turned back to the earthen spot where a bit of shiny metal poked out. I continued to dig around my treasure chest.

What would I spend my new found treasure on? Should I share the bounty with my Dad and Granddad?