Carving Names

Passing through the gates of Forest Lake Cemetery, each epitaph added to the story of Helena, Montana, like walking through a textbook. Yet, no inscription would have as lasting an impact on Sean as Father Houlihan's: "Carve your name on hearts, not stone." Sean had tried that. Carving his name upon the hearts of those around him wasn't easy. The stone proved to be more giving; more easily etched and moved. The deep pockets of his family had quarried, mortared, erected, and demolished stone structures so easily. And yet, the weight and effort of moving a single heart had Sean reeling with exhaustion. He had come to a breaking point. Struggling against bullying and self-worth his entire life, Sean actively beat down the voice inside his head, calling him to the unsavory. He convinced himself that his social awkwardness would eventually be overshadowed by his quality character and integrity. They would see it. He would change their minds. He just needed something bigger than before. And thus began his quest for friendship and purpose. Yet, every quest has its distractions. Will Sean be able to finish his journey with his morals intact? The pivotal decision of his life was at hand: Carving names on hearts or stone?