Author Archives: Olson Huff, MD

August, 1941 Hot and dry. More so than usual, that August, along Campbell’s creek in the isolated mountains of eastern Kentucky,which undoubtedly added to the uneasiness among its inhabitants. Already, the drum beat of war was being both heard and … Continue reading →

The 40’s and 50’s were times when Western Ballads and Trail Songs enjoyed popularity as they spoke about iconic themes of the ever present need to act with courage, honor and integrity, else the persistence of evil ways would lead … Continue reading →

In the early 1950’s a new movie, “Quo Vadis” was released. It was a somewhat romanticized version of real events that took place in the Roman Empire at a time when Christianity was emerging and political intrigue was deepening.The title … Continue reading →

The young teacher stood before his class, giving them what he knew was his last lesson. Very soon, the troops of the regime would come to take him away and he would never return. His only crime had been to … Continue reading →

In the late 1950’s, Pete Seeger put words and music to a theme that became a voice for a nation struggling its way toward peace, justice and integrity. “Where,” he sang, “have all the flowers gone?” That may very well … Continue reading →

They sat, cross legged, faces turned upward, their hands held open in front of them. The baptismal font stood above them, sheltering their presence with its invitation to belong. One eager boy, younger and smaller than the rest, ran to … Continue reading →

Their words bounce around, blasting the air like overinflated basketballs, exhorting all who will listen to vote! Choose me they shout, declaring that they and they alone will provide the solutions to all of America’s concerns. America will be made … Continue reading →

From the piped in music at the mall to  the sounds coming through the doors of places of worship around the world, the messages of the season are clearly heard. Joyous songs of faith, lilting lyrics with a holiday flair … Continue reading →

In 1958, Johnny Cash sang the iconic ballad, “Don’t Take Your Gun to Town ” It  was the plea of a mother to her son, who, in his bravado, ignored her warning and dies at the hand of someone who … Continue reading →