Roscoe Duke, my boss, is a good LDS man trying to start a family along with his wife. They've been trying since they married a few years ago but it didn't take until earlier this year. During the ultrasound that was supposed to determine the baby's gender some undisclosed complications were discovered and he had to take a few days off to follow up in Salt Lake City (the nearest metropolis with appropriate medical care).

He returned in good spirits - but then, he's that kind of guy. I was somewhat heartened when late last week he referred to the pregnancy in the present tense. He left today and said that what he finds out today will determine whether or not he'll be back this week.

Roscoe isn't the kind of guy to burden his coworkers or underlings with his problems. He didn't mention it having anything to do with the pregnancy, but reading between the lines I'm relatively certain that it's related to it.

Procreation is extremely important to people of LDS faith. While I'm not familiar with the particulars, I think it has to do with releasing souls from the Mormon equivalent of Purgatory. But coming from a non-LDS background, I'm absolutely certain that Roscoe would be an outstanding father. If there's one thing I've learned at Thrifthaven, this country needs more goods with outstanding parents.

I can only hope, wish, and pray that he gets the chance.