1

Dear Cassandra,

My sweet girl, I’m so sorry that you have to read this letter, but death is something inevitable, and I knew my time was coming to an end. There was so much I wanted to tell you, so much I wished to teach you. But as fate would have it, I didn’t have enough time.

I have left behind a few things for you, but it is up to you to find them. As Joe should have already told you and your family, arrangements were already set up for you all to continue staying there with living expenses covered. I know you’re smart enough to know that things normally don’t work out that way. In any sense you are right. So let me tell you how this is possible.

I have signed an agreement with Joe to make sure that he handles all my assets as I would have. As you know, you were my favorite, the granddaughter I never had. I tried to build a relationship with your siblings and parents, but they wanted nothing to do with me, therefore, I want nothing to do with them.

I didn’t leave anything for them, because I knew they would be irresponsible and unappreciative. You, on the other hand, are a good kid and deserve a better life and I want to give you that.

I have arranged for you to inherit all of my possessions and assets. Joe will manage them until you are of age and then will hand them over to you. The documents with this letter are the transfer of ownership for the property, the farmers market, and access to all of my accounts. I have also set up a college fund for you, so choose whatever school you want, money is not a problem.

Once you turn 18, as long as you are still doing good, Joe will release full control of the money and assets to you. Remember, I expect greatness from you. You are a brilliant young woman and I know you are capable of anything you set your mind to.

It is because I know this, that there are stipulations to this. In order for you to receive everything, you must maintain good grades and go to college. Not just go to college but complete a degree and maintain good grades. Once you graduate college, find Joe, so he can give you my next gift.

My hope for you is that you find a better life than what you had when I first met you. I want you to find a good, respectable man who will honor you as I know you would them. I want you to get married and have a happy life. Travel, see the world, and try new things. Remember you could do it all. You can do anything, I know you will accomplish a lot in your life.

Cassie, I am so proud of the woman you have become. I remember when you first came to the farm. You were nine, sweet, innocent, and also very smart. There is so much I will miss, but know, I will always be with you, watching over you and guiding you from above.

I know it must be hard for you, but know that I am not suffering. I am reunited with my wife, and I will tell her all about you. One day, in the very distant future, you will join us, and we will be waiting to hear all your amazing stories about how great you lived your life.

Please, don’t spend all your time and energy crying over me or being angry at the world. You are special and you will do great things. When things get hard, remember, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel, and although the tunnel may seem long at times, it will end, and you will get to the other side.

I love you, Cassandra. And please, live a happy life.

Love, Grandpa Al Bates.