A PILGRIMAGE TO SALEM

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Pt. 1

I have always wanted to visit Salem, Massachusetts

It is a sad and convoluted story, but I have family ties there; undesired, undenied, but undisputable ties there.

As any serious student of history knows, between 1692 and 1693 dozens of Salem's citizens were accused of being witches, and approximately thirty were not only judged, but found guilty. As a result, most were hung by the neck 'til dead, at least one was pressed to death by heavy stones, and several died in prison.

I regret to say that two of my ancient uncles, Joseph and Jarvis Ring, were involved in that nasty business. 

Fast forward exactly three and one third centuries

Recently my wife and I were in Massachusetts. Our daughter had undergone surgery in Boston, remained in the hospital several days, and was released to return home. Having been released, Kristy insisted on driving the two hours which lay ahead of us. 

However, we had hardly left the hospital when our plans abruptly changed.

Our daughter spoke.

"How about we take a slight detour? Haven't you always wanted to see Salem?"

To which I replied,

"Well, you have just completed a serious operation. Wouldn't you rather head on home?"

Not to be deterred, Kristy was determined to follow through with her plan.

Pt. 2

Not knowing Massachusetts, I had no idea I might have almost walked the 15 miles between Boston and Salem. We were there before a half hour had elapsed.

I had read the testimonies of my maternal 9th great uncles, Joseph and Jarvis. I knew they had accused, and testified against a woman. I had seen photos of the Salem memorial stones; each one bearing the name of one of the accused so-called "witches." 

One of the stones was inscribed with the name, Susannah Martin. 

I stood there for the longest time. And I found myself doing penance, as it were; on the part of mouths which no longer had the wherewithal to utter an accusing word.

"I am so, so sorry, Susannah. You were wrongfully deprived of a long, good life. I ask your forgiveness. My family asks your forgiveness."

 It seemed a weight, almost as heavy as that memorial stone, fell off my shoulders. 

Old Testament scripture speaks of generational blessings and curses. I think if the dynamic of curses applies in the New Testament, it is largely due to bad role modeling, and a conscious willingness to emulate one's forebears' behavior patterns. Those who have placed their faith in a merciful Savior, who have been forgiven of their sins, and have been saved by grace have, I believe, been removed from the curse.

However, I not only did what I had to do that day. I did what I had desperately wanted to do.

As a counselor I have often told my clients,

"There are no time machines."

And yet, I like to think I fulfilled a personal mission that day which will serve, as best just one man can, to reconcile a severe injustice inflicted upon someone who in no way deserved it.

Rest in peace, Susannah. Rest in peace.

by Bill McDonald, PhD