Original subtitles

[Car horn blowing]

(John-Boy) when we were growing up on Walton's mountain,

Sundays were very special.

6 days a week, overalls and sneakers were the family uniform.

But on the 7th day, we got out our sunday-Go-To-Meeting best,

Shined and scrubbed and brushed and polished.

Getting ready to go to church was as much of a ritual

As the services once we got there.

I remember one february sunday that began like any other

But ended in the gravest crisis our family ever faced.

A crisis that threatened the sheltered life we'd taken for granted

And tested our belief in god's mercy.

You can get just anything to grow, can't you, mama?

Aren't they lovely?

It's so nice to see them inside here, green and blooming

When it's winter outside.

They're just lovely, mama.

This bug thinks so, too.

Jim-Bob, you get that bug away from me.

- It's just a little bug. - Get it away!

Jim-Bob, leave Erin alone.

[Door shuts]

™ªâ™ª[Jason playing lively tune]

That's nice, Jason.

You really like it?

Uh-Huh.

(Grandma) well, shouldn't we be going?

I can't abide people who straggle in late.

But, grandma, that way, everybody gets to see

The new hat or the new coat.

(Grandma) turning the lord's worship into a style show?

Livie, you look flushed.

It's winter aches and pains.

It's this weather.

Sometimes it seems like spring will just never get here.

Jason, that's not exactly

what I'd call sunday music.

™ªâ™ª[playing slow tune]

Now, that's more like it.

I liked the other one better.

™ªâ™ª[switches to lively tune]

What do you call it?

I don't know. I haven't named it yet.

You mean you just made that up?

Uh-Huh.

Well now, don't I just have the most talented children?

You sound just like daddy.

(Grandma) will you get your boots on?

Yes, mother.

Come, go with us.

Maybe next week, honey.

You've been saying that every sunday since I married you.

You keep trying.

It'll do you the world of good.

Raise your spirits.

If my spirits got any higher,

They'd go right through the roof.

We'll pray for you, daddy.

You do that, honey.

personally, I go mostly

For the music and the singing.

[Sighs]

™ª Oh let's be the tie that binds ♪♪

You have a grand voice, pa.

Well, I keep all that music pent up inside,

Go to church and let it come forth.

Gives me pleasure.

Anything that gives a man my age enjoyment

is something to be encouraged.

You can even make going to church sound wicked.

That's one way of bringing in the sinners.

™ª Bringing in the sinners Bringing in the sinners ♪

™ª we should come rejoice ♪

Hurry up, everybody.

John-Boy's got the truck ready.

Mary Ellen!

™ª Bringing in the cheer we should come rejoice ♪♪

It's such a pleasure to see you in a dress.

You look real nice.

I feel like a scarecrow.

You're a very attractive young woman,

If you'd only cooperate with nature a little.

What you got behind your back?

Mary Ellen, you are not taking a baseball mitt to church.

- But, mama, if G.W. Wants to... - No.

[Mitt thudding]

My best to the reverend.

[Car horn blowing]

[All chattering]

(Grandpa) hurry along.

(Ben) I've got my neck warmer right here.

(Grandpa) come along, Livie.

(All) ♪ Oh, Beulah land, sweet Beulah land ♪

™ª As on thy highest mount I stand ♪

™ª I look away across the sea ♪

™ª where mansions are prepared for me ♪♪

™ªâ™ª[all humming]

[Children chattering]

Hello, sir.

It's always a pleasure to see you, ma'am.

My very best to your wife.

I'm so pleased you all could come worship with us this morning.

Fine service, reverend. Thank you, ma'am.

I sure enjoyed your sermon, reverend. Thank you, Mr. Walton.

Come have dinner with us real soon.

Thank you.

Goodbye, reverend. Bye.

(Livie) Wasn't that a comforting sermon?

Oh, splendid. He was just splendid.

How'd you know? You slept through the whole thing.

I was not asleep.

Your eyes were closed, and your mouth was open.

I was meditating.

Mama, Ben got another star for saying bible verses.

"Happy is the man who finds wisdom,

"And the man who gets understanding.

"For the gain of it is better than the gain of silver,

And its profits are better than gold."

Well, it looks to me like we could have

A young minister in the Walton family.

2 ministers, mama. I'm gonna be a preacher, too.

Don't laugh.

No, I think that's a lovely ambition.

Mama, are you all right?

What's the matter?

Did you turn your ankle?

No, my knee just seemed to give out.

You better come back to the church.

Oh, I'll be all right.

Mama, can I walk home with G.W.? If you like.

- We'll come with her. - No, you will not.

Why not?

I'll explain that to you in a few years.

In a few years, you won't have to.

It feels like my legs suddenly don't have any strength in 'em.

Sounds like you're fighting the grippe.

Well, we'll get you home in a hurry.

All right?

Mary Ellen, I've got to ask you something.

Go ahead and ask.

Promise you won't say no right off?

You want to borrow my baseball mitt?

8th grade's gonna have a spring dance.

I know that.

Well, do you wanna go with me?

No.

I asked you not to say no right off.

I can't dance.

Neither can I.

So what are we gonna do, sit around looking dumb?

People can learn how to dance.

Not me.

Won't you think about it?

All right. But I'm not gonna change my mind.

[Laughing]

[Indistinct talking]

We're gonna get you right into bed.

Well, here they come right now.

Hey, y'all, look who's here.

Oh, good morning.

(All) good morning.

Well, we were on our way home from church.

I didn't see you at church.

Oh, no, dear. Sister and I are members

Of the episcopal congregation.

The Baldwins have always been of that persuasion.

Papa was a deacon.

Anyway, we were passing so close by,

We just had to stop and pay our respects.

That was very thoughtful of you.

Somehow the idea of going home

to face another quiet sunday

Was not appealing.

Children, take off your boots.

Come on, before you catch a cold.

[All chattering]

I'm so glad we stopped.

I'll treasure the memory of you all in your sunday best.

It's such a treat.

Oh, Liv, look,

The ladies have brought you along a little present.

Nothing very extravagant.

Mamie's mint jelly.

It's delicious with lamb.

Thank you.

Livie, you all right?

No, she isn't.

She's feeling poorly.

Oh, dear!

And here we are, chattering away.

What is it, honey?

Grandma says it's the grippe.

Oh, sister, we must be going.

I'm sorry to spoil your visit, ladies.

Well, now you take care of yourself, dear.

Thank you for the tea and hospitality.

- Thank you, John. - You come back soon.

I'll see the ladies to the car.

Bathe your temples with lilac water, dear.

There's nothing more soothing.

Thank you.

Goodbye. Goodbye.

Take care.

Liv, you look feverish.

Did this come over you in church?

No, I woke up this morning

with a backache and a stiff neck.

You've got a chill.

You shouldn't have gone out this morning.

Don't fuss. An afternoon in bed and I'll be good as new.

Then I'll fix you some hot chamomile tea.

Now you get yourself to bed.

What are we gonna do with this dab of mint jelly?

Save it.

Maybe next time the ladies will bring us some lamb.

Come on, now, let's get you upstairs.

[Moaning]

Liv, what is it?

I don't know. My legs just...

I feel so strange all of a sudden.

Oh, honey, come on, I'll take you up.

(Jason) be sure you save the corn silk.

Well, I am, Jason, I am.

Shelling corn is almost as fun as popping it.

Or eating it.

John-Boy, do you know how to dance?

Some, yeah.

How much is some?

Oh, I don't know.

I guess I know enough

to keep from stumbling over a girl's feet

once the music starts.

Don't you feel like a fool, hippity-Hopping around

while everybody's watching?

Like a fool?

Yeah, I guess sometimes I feel a little foolish.

Then why do you do it?

Feeling foolish can be fun.

John-Boy.

Your daddy wants you to fetch Doc. Vance right away.

Is mama worse?

Will you just tell him that... that she's talking out of her head

And that she can't seem to move her legs?

Can't move her legs? What...

Will you just tell him that?

(Mary Ellen) Where is he going?

[Engine sputtering]

[Livie moaning]

Oh!

Aah!

It's your turn, Erin.

I don't want to play anymore.

Me neither.

Why don't you turn on the radio? I think it's about time

For Edgar Bergen and Charlie Mccarthy.

Why doesn't daddy come down

and tell us about mama?

I don't know what the doctor

could be doing up there all this time.

Excuse me, John-Boy.

Don't you worry none about Doc. Vance.

He's one sawbones that really knows his business.

John-Boy, could you possibly see how mama is?

I don't want to keep pestering daddy about it.

I believe it'd be a satisfaction to have

some good news to help us pass the evening.

All right.

Daddy, the children are worried.

John-Boy, uh, your mama's very sick.

Does the doctor know what it is?

Yes, it's polio.

Polio?

Infantile paralysis.

Is it very bad, polio?

It's bad.

She'll have to go to the hospital, eh?

Well, we can't move her tonight,

But, uh, tomorrow we'll see.

Let's not say anything yet to the children, son.

Let's, uh,

Let's just say the doctor's taking good care of your mama.

Ok. Sure.

The children. John, the children.

The children are fine, Liv.

I'm really sick.

That would be you, honey.

My plants. I forgot to water my plants.

Shh.

The plants are perfectly all right, Liv.

Liv.

Are we gonna be able to see mama after school?

Probably not today, darling.

Tomorrow?

I don't know. Maybe, Jason.

[G.W. Whistling]

That's G.W.

Is he whistling for you?

(Erin) it's so unladylike

Being called for like that.

So who's a lady?

You don't catch me jumping up and racing out of the house

every time a boy whistles.

I don't hear any boys whistling for you.

Your slip's showing.

Grandma.

Doc? You're still here?

I've gone and come back, Livie.

Delivered a baby and set a broken arm since I saw you.

I've lost a day.

Don't you worry about that.

I'm so weak I can't even lift my head.

Still in pain?

It comes and goes.

Mostly I seem to have worn it out, or it's worn me out.

Now I don't want you to move around, Livie.

You just rest.

I won't give you an argument.

What was it? Influenza?

We'll talk about that later.

Right now the important thing is

that you get your strength back.

Well, I'm... I'm due at the Fasnaughts right this minute.

- Who's sick over there? - Nelly.

Laryngitis. Can't say a word.

Jim says it's the best vacation he's had in 27 years.

I'll see you again this evening, Livie.

Grandma.

What's the doctor holding back from me?

How would I know?

I'm just the fetch-And-Carry lady now.

I'm gonna have to tell her, doc.

I know, John, I know.

Let's let her have a few more hours.

How bad is it?

Well, there's considerable nerve damage.

The paralysis seems to have moved down the lower spine

into both legs.

Will it pass?

I don't know.

That's the hellish thing about polio.

We just don't know.

In a day or 2, if the feeling doesn't come back,

I'll have to put on splints.

Splints?

Well, the theory goes that the affected muscles are weak.

That being the case,

the other healthy ones are likely to pull

the weak ones out of shape, cause crippling.

Is she going to have to wear these splints long?

Well, I...

I've got to say it again. I don't know.

[Children laughing]

(Mary Ellen) I wish you'd closed that window.

How's mama?

- When can we see her? - Shh. Quiet.

I drew a picture for her.

Quiet. Well, I'll show it to her.

Just keep quiet around the house now,

Because your grandma's trying to have a little cat nap.

- Is grandma sick, too? - No, she isn't.

But she's wore out from taking care of your mama all night.

I didn't know you peeled potatoes, grandpa.

Lot of things about me you don't know about.

And there're lots of new things

You're gonna have to learn to do

before your mama gets up and on her feet again.

When will that be?

Oh, I don't know.

But in the meantime, I'm gonna keep busy

And when I'm busy,

I like to see everybody around me busy, too.

(Jason) Well, I'll take the hint.

Shh-Shh, tippy-Toe, tippy-Toe.

If your grandma wakes up, she'll give me the dickens.

Is daddy upstairs?

He hasn't left her side all day.

Careful now, honey. Don't cut yourself. That's it.

I'll watch for a while, if you'd like to get a breath of fresh air.

No, thanks, son.

It could help, though,

If you and Jason finished up those timbers for halvorsen.

Oh, sure.

Now get me some fresh coffee.

John.

John.

(Livie) John!

My legs.

I can't move my legs.

I can touch 'em,

But it's like they belong to somebody else.

Polio.

That's what it is. Polio.

John?

Yes, Liv.

The children, are they...

The children are just fine, honey.

Just fine.

Liv, it's gonna be all right.

(Roosevelt on radio) Regard those who work with hand or brain

as different from or inferior to

those who live from their own property.

We insist that labor is entitled

to as much respect as property.

But our workers with hand and brain

deserve more than respect for their labor...

I guess it's time we all had a little talk.

I've been waiting till we were 100 percent sure

before I said anything.

But now there's, there's no doubt.

Your mama's real sick.

She's got polio.

Polio? Mama?

What's polio?

It's a disease that happens mostly to children.

(Mary Ellen) Like that little Marlowe girl at school, remember?

The one with the crutches

and the wires in her legs?

Mostly it happens to children,

But it happens to adults, too.

When will mama be over it?

Son, it's gonna take a long time.

Can she walk?

No. She's too weak right now.

Will mama have to use crutches

and have those wires in her legs?

It's too soon to know, honey.

I wish we could see her.

You're gonna see her.

You'll see her soon.

Soon as the doc says it's not catching.

She wants to see you real bad, you know that.

Daddy, what if mama can never walk again?

Oh.

Nonsense.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt, our president,

had polio when he was about your mama's age.

Hasn't stopped that fellow none yet, has it?

Not so as you could notice.

It'll be kind of tough around here for a while

but we're gonna get by real good.

There are gonna be a lot of things you can do to help.

I'm gonna get back to my homework now.

That's a good idea.

Why don't you all finish your homework?

Daddy?

What is it, honey?

There's one thing i don't understand.

What's that?

How come it had to happen to mama?

Well, you know, baby,

that's kind of hard for me to understand, too.

How'd they take it?

Oh, they're our children, Liv.

It's gonna be hard for 'em.

As soon as I can see 'em,

I've got to show 'em that they can depend on me,

Same as always.

(Elizabeth) Good night, mama.

Good night, Elizabeth.

(Ben) Good night, mama.

Good night, Ben.

(Jason) Good night, mama.

Good night, Jason.

Good night, mama.

(Livie) Good night, jim-Bob.

Good night, mama.

(Livie) Good night, John-Boy.

Goodnight, mama.

Good night, Mary Ellen.

Aren't you going to say good night, Erin?

Good night, mama.

Good night, Erin.

Ok, come on.

Good night, John-Boy.

John, could I have some of my plants Up here tomorrow?

Of course, honey.

It'll remind me that winter doesn't last forever.

[Knocking on door]

You up to company?

Guess so.

Reverend Fordwick.

We've all been extremely concerned about you, Mrs. Walton.

How are you feeling?

The doctor says I'm improving.

Well, I'm certainly relieved to hear that.

Uh, I'm here as an emissary from the ladies' aid society.

And they asked me to present this to you

as a token of their affection.

My goodness, such a large packet.

Do you want me to open it for you, Livie?

Thank you, grandma.

How nice of everybody.

I do hope they haven't gone and spent a pile of money.

I was assured the cost was minimal.

Livie, would you look at this?

I do vow.

Why, it's... it's a signature quilt.

I've never seen one before.

"Get well soon. Evelyn."

"Courage, from alma." Good old alma.

"Best wishes from Tibbie."

They've been working on that

Ever since you were stricken.

"Thinking of you. Myrle."

Oh, grandma, put it over me.

It's like having all my dear friends around me.

Reverend.

Would you tell 'em i consider myself a lucky woman

to have such good friends?

I certainly will.

God's blessing be on you, ma'am.

Thank you.

I'll see him out.

[Door closing]

How are the children taking this?

Oh, well, it's hard for them to understand.

It is for all of us.

Even you? A man of god?

I accept his ways, ma'am.

I don't always understand them.

Good day.

Will you stop? Ben, get off of there!

Jim-Bob! Who started that?

- I don't know. - He did.

Well, what was it about?

I don't know. Something just came over me.

- I'm sorry. - Me, too.

This is the wrong time to fight, you know.

Just get back to bed.

Where did you get that?

I got it in a trade.

Well, what did you trade for it, and who did you trade with?

That's my business.

You know, you're getting more picky

than mama and daddy put together.

You just stop picking on me.

I'm not picking.

I'm sorry, I'm not picking.

Elizabeth, I thought you gave that up for good.

I thought so, too.

Big girls don't suck their thumbs.

I don't feel very big tonight.

All right, go... go back to bed.

Can't we stay, John-Boy?

No, you can't.

Just a little while? Please?

I promise not to suck my thumb.

Hey, what's going on here?

- We're getting into your bed. - No, you're not.

You've got beds of your own.

So have they.

All right. Let's just get one thing straight:

This is special.

This is not a regular arrangement.

John-Boy.

Hmm?

You've seen mama, haven't you?

Only from the door.

Does she look very different?

No, of course she doesn't, Erin.

Who put a thing like that into your head?

I don't know.

But I just couldn't stand to see mama different.

That hurt?

No. I can't feel a thing.

Now these splints are supposed to protect the muscles.

Aren't there some exercises I can do?

The only exercise you'll be doing is maybe trying to sit up.

Of course I'll sit up.

That's not gonna be as easy as you think.

Who said it's going to be easy?

How am I gonna get the feeling back in my legs

if I don't do exercises?

Well, in time you may want to be fitted with braces.

No, I want to do something now. Today.

I'm sorry, Livie, but I don't think you've got a choice.

There must be something she can do, doc.

Some... some kind of medicine, maybe.

Not that I know of.

But you've got time on your side, Livie.

You're a young woman, you're determined,

And I think you'll make a good recovery.

I'll look in 2, 3 times a week.

If the pain should get worse,

or the fever come back, why, you send for me.

Is it safe for the children to come in now?

Oh, yes, I think you can see them.

Now?

If you like.

I'll go get 'em. Be right here.

I'll let myself out, John.

All right, children, you can see your mama now.

(John-Boy) Slowly, Ben, quiet.

Come on, Erin.

[Door slams]

Mama!

This is my medicine.

Mary Ellen,

Why, I hardly recognize you without your baseball mitt.

Jim-Bob, if you don't get a haircut,

Somebody's gonna mistake you for a sheepdog.

Ruff, ruff!

[All laughing]

And miss Elizabeth, what's this I hear

about your rediscovering your thumb?

I've stopped again, mama. For good.

I'm glad to hear it.

Can you feel this?

No, Elizabeth, I can't.

Where's Erin?

She was downstairs with us.

I'll find her.

Jason, you got your harmonica?

Yeah.

Play us a tune. Something lively.

[playing turkey in the straw]

Come on.

[Harmonica playing continues]

Grandma, where's Erin?

She ran outside.

[Door closing]

Erin!

Erin!

[Sobbing]

Erin.

What are you hiding out here for?

Your mama's asking for you.

John-Boy, I'm afraid.

You've got nothing to be afraid of.

I don't want to see mama sick

like a different person.

Erin.

John-Boy, I don't want mama to change!

Erin, quiet, now. Hush, honey.

Erin, you listen to me.

The important things about your mama haven't changed.

They never could.

The way she feels about you and me.

Maybe now she can't walk,

but she's the same person, and she wants to see you.

I'm ashamed.

Erin, you've got no reason to be ashamed.

It's a very natural thing to want the people you love

to stay the same.

Now come on, she's waiting for you.

Here.

Shh.

™ªâ™ª[playing swanee river, by stephen foster]

Here's your stray lamb.

Erin.

Mama!

Oh, sweetheart.

™ªâ™ª[playing lively tune]

[Livie and John laughing]

(John-Boy) mama's room has become the center of the house.

Every day she talks with us

Telling us of the hopes and dreams she has for each one of us.

"He leadeth me beside the still waters.

"He restoreth my soul:

"He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his own name's sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of..."

That's lovely, Ben.

But would you do me a favor?

Would you read from the song of solomon?

I just love chapter 2, verse 11.

Sure, mama.

Here it is.

"For, lo, the winter is past,

"The rain is over and gone.

"The flowers appear on the earth,

"the time of the singing of birds is come

and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land."

Isn't that beautiful?

You read it with such feeling.

You really want to be a minister?

If that's what you want, mama.

What do you want?

Well, preaching would be fine,

I'm kind of interested in being a salesman.

A salesman?

Well, remember that big fish that I caught

and daddy said it would be ok if I sold it?

I sold it to Mr. Godsey for 15 cents,

And he doesn't even like fish.

Well, he said at the time

I'd make a crackerjack salesman.

You ought to try it.

Well, what would I sell?

There doesn't seem to be much future in fish around here.

How about magazines?

LikeCollier's and Saturday Evening Post?

I hear some boys are very successful at it.

Why, I'd sure like to give it a try.

(John-Boy) it seems that mama is anxious to see us make a start

Toward fulfilling the possibilities she feels we have.

I want you to go to that dance with G.W.

Mama!

I wanna see you looking pretty and girlish in a frilly dress.

I don't have a frilly dress.

I know.

And that's why we're gonna make you one.

Go get the ladies' home journal. Go on.

(John-Boy) we all try to carry out mama's wishes,

to please her and ourselves.

[playing]

She encourages Jason to work on his music.

Says he should try out for the amateur show in charlottesville.

With me, she seems most to enjoy talking

about college and what I'll be doing there.

The university of virginia.

I can just picture you there.

In my raccoon coat and my porkpie hat?

What you'll wear doesn't concern me

half as much as what you'll be learning.

What courses are you gonna take?

I don't know.

I just hope I can get in.

They've got so many requirements.

I want to get it all fixed in my mind.

You know, mama,

The campus is only about 25 miles from here.

Maybe I could just drive down and pick up some catalogs.

We could plan out the whole thing right here.

I'd like that.

I would, too.

I'm gonna ask daddy when he can spare the truck.

John-Boy. Hmm?

Do you think I'm being foolish?

No, mama.

[Bell tolling]

Oh, good morning.

Good morning.

You're new.

Well, I'm not really here.

I mean, I'm not... I'm not here yet.

I'm here, I'm here. But I just want to talk.

About what?

Oh, how you register, and how much everything costs,

and what courses you have, and everything.

Well, most everything's in this brochure.

Fees, tuition cost,

schedule of classes, and an entrance application.

Will you be applying this fall?

Well, no, this is sort of long-Range planning.

Also, could you direct me to the school of medicine?

I would have thought that you were more the arts and humanities type.

Well, you're right. I am interested in a career in journalism.

But my mother's sick,

And I was wondering if there was someone I could talk to.

Your mother's sick how?

With polio.

Then you should see dr. Miller in experimental medicine.

Over in jefferson county. Walton's mountain.

Yes, I know. I come from up around crabtree falls.

Uh-Huh.

Are you in your freshman year?

No. No, I'm still in high school.

I'd like to come here someday, though.

If we can get the money together.

I see. Please sit down.

Thank you.

Doctor, one of the reasons that I came here today was to see you.

I wish I could examine your mother,

But i, I never seem to get very far away from this lab.

Well, I hoped maybe there was something

You could suggest for us to do.

Well, there's no vaccine to stop the damned crippler

and no medicine to repair the damage once it's been done.

But we're working on it.

I gather you've noticed I've got a personal interest.

I was 18 years old, a pretty good football player.

Then one saturday I had these strange pains in my back,

And sunday I was completely out of my head,

And by monday I was paralyzed from the waist down.

Just the same way with my mama.

And that's the pattern. We stand by helplessly and just, uh,

Hope for the best.

Now, our doctor, Dr. Vance, has put splints on her legs.

That's the accepted approach.

Nobody knows whether it really helps.

Well, I was reading in the newspaper about Sister Kenny, is it?

And she's worked out her own treatment?

Yes, she's an australian nurse.

We're now checking into her methods.

She claims an extraordinary rate of recovery.

But she's also attracted a lot of controversy.

I'd like to find out more about her.

Nobody knows too much yet.

Well, I mean...

maybe there's just some place I could write to, in australia or something.

I'll tell you what: you leave me your name and address,

and I'll see if I can get a hold

Of some of her pamphlets that detail the procedures.

I'll mail them to you. You can show 'em to your doctor

and see what he thinks.

I sure would be grateful to you for that.

Why, it's no trouble at all, son.

Isn't that something, doc?

It certainly is remarkable, Olivia.

Never thought a few weeks ago,

I'd be proud as a peacock at just being able to sit up.

You've got quite a nurse here.

(Livie) Isn't she a wonder?

I may steal her away from you.

I'll get mama some fresh water.

Erin's different.

You never know what a person might be

till she's put to the test.

Well, now that you're able to sit up,

I'd say a wheelchair might be next.

I don't need the wheelchair. I'm going to walk.

Now you're a stubborn woman.

And for a stubborn woman, anything's possible.

You keep up the good work, Olivia.

Mama, what's the use of making the frilly dress? I can't dance.

We'll get to that.

Let's see.

Yes, I, uh, I heard of Sister Kenny.

Is she a nun?

Uh, no, grandma.

I think in australia they call any nurse "sister."

As far as I remember, she was working

in the back country down there

And she came up with her own treatment for polio.

The doctor at the university says

that she claims a really high recovery rate.

Do you know what she does different, doc?

No. No, I don't,

but if you get the pamphlets, I'll study them.

Ok.

But don't get your hopes up.

Most times these quick cures

turn out to be some kind of quackery.

I could use your help out back, son.

Ok, I'll get my coat.

[Children laughing]

Mama, make 'em go away.

It's bad enough without them watching.

There'll be people watching you at the dance.

If they snicker, I'll slug 'em.

Just like the well-Bred, Young lady you are.

Ok, Jason, strike up the band.

Ahem.

[playing the Blue Danube, by Strauss]

- [Children chuckling] - Quit pulling at me.

Mary Ellen, you gotta move. G.W.'S not gonna pick you up

And carry you around the dance floor.

- [All laughing] - Shh.

- The tortoise and the hare. - Yeah.

Not too fast.

Mary Ellen, what are you doing?

Mary Ellen, wait... you're leading me. Remember what I told you?

You're the girl, and I'm the boy.

[All laughing] she forgot.

Let's do it right, ok? Last time.

[harmonica playing]

Looks like a tugboat.

[Imitating engine]

[All laughing]

It's the dumbest thing I ever did.

That's better.

(Livie) Smile.

I don't feel like smiling.

Smile anyway. 1, 2, 3.

1, 2, 3.

Very good, Mary Ellen, very good.

Don't I get any credit for my feet?

Oh, you're elegant, John-Boy, just elegant.

Like your father.

Lift your feet a little higher. A little higher.

™ªâ™ª[harmonica music continues]

Liv, you moved your foot.

Liv.

You're moving your foot.

[Gasps]

It's moving, Liv.

Your foot's moving, Liv.

John-Boy.

Children, look. Look, I can move my foot.

You did it!

(Livie) I moved my foot.

Mama!

I'm gonna walk again. You just wait and see.

I'll be walking by easter.

You're gonna walk right to the easter sunrise service.

I can't believe it. I moved my foot.

Here you go, John-Boy.

Thank you.

Is this it?

Yeah. What were you expecting?

A big check for one of those stories you send off?

No, a doctor over at the university of Virginia

promised to send me some pamphlets on polio.

(Sheriff) Hi, men.

Hello, sheriff.

How's your mother, John-Boy?

Well, she's able to move her leg. Thank you.

That's good news. That's good.

Am I too late, ike?

No, we got lots of time.

I tell you, it's like a day without sunshine if I miss it.

John-Boy, maybe you better send that doctor a note and remind him.

Yeah, I guess I'll do that.

Funny, though. He didn't seem like the kind of man to forget.

Ike, time's moving right along.

We aren't gonna miss a word.

John-Boy, if anything comes in

from the university, I'll bring it over.

Thanks, Ike.

- How do you turn this on? - I'll turn it on.

John-Boy, why don't you stick around

And listen to Ma Perkins with us?

Not today, ike. Thanks for the licorice.

My best to your mom.

(Man on radio) a woman who's life is the same,

surroundings are the same...

On your way back from Charlottesville,

don't forget to stop at ike godsey's for my stew beef.

About 15-Cents worth will do just fine.

And I need 15 cents of blue sash

for Mary Ellen's new dance dress.

15 cents for a piece of ribbon?

I promised Livie.

Man does not live by stew beef alone, old woman.

Don't you misquote the scriptures to me, old man.

15 cents for a piece of ribbon.

Well, you tell ike godsey to throw in a large soup bone for that.

I'll try, ma.

How do you feel about the audition, Jason?

I guess I'm ready.

He should be. He's in the barn half the day

worrying that guitar to death.

Now you've got nothing to worry about.

You got a way with music like nobody else.

Can we come with you, daddy?

Now what would you two be doing in charlottesville?

We could do something for mama.

Everybody else is.

Your mama did ask me to bring back some springtime with me.

Where can you find that?

Can't find that in any catalog I've ever seen.

I think I have an idea how you can do something for your mama.

What is it?

Come on with me and I'll tell you on the way in.

Take those gloves out of your pocket now.

Here we go.

You want to go to Charlottesville, son?

I can't. I got too much work.

(John-Boy) Bye, Ben.

Bye, good luck.

(Jason) Thank you.

- He doesn't need it. - Oh, yes, I do.

In you go. Don't put your feet on the seat.

(John-Boy) Ok, daddy.

[Engine revving]

(Jason) Bye.

(John) Pick you up in about a half an hour.

(Jason) Ok.

(John) Good luck.

(Jason) Thank you.

(Jason) John-Boy, I don't know.

(John-Boy) You don't know what?

Well, playing for the family is one thing,

But playing for a man like Osgood Tennyson

who's used to hearing the best, is something else.

You're one of the best.

Maybe I'm not.

You don't want to find out, eh?

No, I do, but... but I don't.

(John-Boy) I think this is it.

Shh!

What are you kids doing back here?

We're looking for the place

to audition for the amateur show.

Oh, ok, this way.

Are you Mr. Tennyson?

No. He don't get here till the day of the show.

I'm his advance man, Snyder.

Well, what's your specialty?

Tap dance? Juggle?

Imitate Laurel and Hardy?

No, not me. My brother plays the guitar and sings.

Sensational.

(John-Boy) Jason Walton.

Ok, let's hear it.

Right now?

Well, you're going to audition, audition.

Hold this.

Uh, let's have the entry fee first.

The entry fee?

Well, it didn't say anything on the poster about an entry fee.

Uh, $1 in advance.

Well, then I guess I can't audition.

I don't have $1.

Wait, kid.

Tell you what, for you, I'll make it 50 cents.

Now everybody's got 50 cents.

Not me.

Come on, Jason. Let's wait and audition for Mr. Tennyson.

Program will be set when he gets to town.

Well then maybe the manager of the theater,

or someone over at the newspaper.

[Door opens]

Wait.

Mama, guess what?

You earned your first million.

My first 50 cents. I've got 8 customers.

3 for Saturday Evening Post,

2 for collier's, 2 for liberty,

And the Baldwins took the $3 special.

[Laughing]

You're a salesman, all right.

You don't mind me not being a preacher?

I'm proud of you.

(Jim-Bob) Oh, watch out, Elizabeth.

- Is that daddy and the children? - Yes, ma'am.

You made me drop them. (Elizabeth) I did not.

What are they doing out there?

I can't tell. It's going to be a surprise for you.

What do you call these things, daddy?

Crocuses, honey.

Crocuses. That's a hard word.

I know. Well, it's one of your mama's favorite flowers.

These things really turn into flowers?

They sure do.

Sun shines, rain falls.

One day this is going to be blooming with color.

How long will it take?

Well, they should come in about easter.

Mama will be well then, won't she?

I hope so, son. I sure hope so.

Now pat it down real good.

There you go, honey.

Drop it right in there. Attagirl.

I've got to get that order into town.

You're still at it, huh, Liv?

I try to add 5 minutes each day.

Now, don't overdo it.

There's no change, John.

What do you mean, no change?

Just look at the way that leg's moving.

I could do that a week ago.

I want to swing my legs over the side of the bed,

Stand up, walk to the closet, choose me a dress,

Dash down the stairs, and run out into the yard.

Healing takes time.

Do you think I'll walk again?

I think you will.

Dr. Vance doesn't think so.

Did he say that?

Not in so many words.

Every time he comes now

He talks about braces and the wheelchair.

He's saying, "face it, Livie.

Resign yourself to being an invalid."

Liv,

I told you as plain as I know how.

I believe you're gonna walk again.

How much does that doctor charge

every time he comes here?

That's no concern of yours.

Well, I can't just lie here with an empty mind.

That's a good sign.

I don't follow you.

You're getting feisty.

[Car approaching]

Is that Dr. Vance?

(John) No. I don't know who it is.

It, uh, sure was a pleasant surprise

for you to come all the way up here and make a special visit.

(Dr. Miller) It took a long time to locate those pamphlets.

And I know how important every day,

each... each hour can be

When you first start trying to work your way back.

So I... [sighing]

I decided to deliver them in person.

All right, children,

go on back to your homework.

Elizabeth.

How do you feel about this Sister Kenny method, doctor?

Well, it's radically different than our accepted procedures.

She said she doesn't believe in using splints.

No, she insists that instead of preventing muscle damage,

Splints can cause it.

Now, as I understand it,

She thinks the muscles go into a sort of spasm

and need to be relaxed by using hot compresses.

That makes good sense to me.

Yes, we can learn a lot from folk medicine.

Sister Kenny uses wool blankets

wrung out in boiling water.

Then, once the muscles relax, she starts massaging them.

The idea is to keep a path from the brain to the muscles open.

That sounds simple enough.

Many of my colleagues think it's too simple.

Now, understand, I can't prescribe it.

But you can show it to your doctor and if he sees merit...

Oh, I'll get these to him right away.

Would, uh, would Mrs. Walton feel up to seeing me for a few minutes?

John, I think she should.

Well, sure, fine.

I'll, uh, I'll tell her you're coming.

Good.

That's very encouraging, Mrs. Walton.

Thank you, doctor.

Oh, I'm not speaking as a doctor.

I'm remembering when I was in your place.

It was months before I could do that.

Well, I figure if i keep exercising,

I'll get more and more control.

That's certainly possible.

I know you want more than possibilities.

You want certainties and guarantees.

Well, there are none with polio.

As long as there's hope.

That's the spirit.

Remember, we human beings are highly adaptable creatures.

Now there may come a time when you'll feel you can't go on

unless you know that you'll get back

to the person you were before this happened.

Trying to tell me I'll have to settle for less than that?

Well, not for less, but maybe something different.

I hope you don't have to face that,

But if you do, I know you'll know how to handle it.

Thank you for coming to see me, doctor.

Good luck.

And I'm looking forward to the day

when you can come and see me.

Down here, G.W.

Hurry up, G.W.

Mary Ellen, you go at everything too fast.

This is as good a place as any. Ok.

Ok, you said you want to practice.

Well, where's your mitt?

Not baseball, dancing.

Now, Mary Ellen?

Look, when we start moving around that dance floor friday night,

nobody's going to be snickering.

What's that?

Ricky May's Movie Magazine. She loaned it to me. Look.

Who are they?

Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers.

That's what I want for us.

- Mary Ellen... - Ok, now take me in your arms.

Are you going to take me in your arms,

or am I gonna wham you?

Closer. Ok, now relax.

It's very simple. It's just 1, 2, 3, ok?

1, 2, 3.

Sorry.

1, 2, 3.

1, 2, 3.

1, 2, 3.1, 2, 3.

1, 2, 3.

1, 2, 3.1, 2, 3.

1, 2, 3.

1, 2, 3.

1, 2, 3. 1...

(Dr. Vance) Well, what worries me is taking off those splints.

Without that support,

Olivia could find herself a lot worse off than she is now.

Yeah, but the steam heat, the massage.

Now that sounds exactly like what Livie needs.

Well, you do what you think best.

I guess I just don't believe in miracles.

Sister Kenny doesn't claim to work miracles.

But to my way of thinking, starting something like this now

is just postponing the adjustment

that Olivia's gonna have to make sooner or later.

Adjustment?

Olivia's not dealing the cards.

She's got to take the hand she's got

and accept the fact that she's crippled.

(Dr. Vance) It's hard, but it's true.

She's got to accept it.

Quit straining to do the impossible.

Get on with the job of shaping a life for herself

with her new limitations.

No.

Now I have tested and retested those nerves.

I know what the odds are against recovery.

- Doc... - Just a minute, son.

You see, Doc., Livie's not ready to hear that yet.

We're just gonna have to talk it over with her, that's all.

Well, you all let me know what you decide.

Thanks for the coffee.

[Sighing]

I say, let's take off the splints

and start the Sister Kenny treatment right now.

It's not going to work a miracle.

If you do it, you're going to be taking chances.

I'll take them. I'm making no progress this way.

Now, Livie, listen to the boy. There are risks involved.

But the hot poultice will ease the soreness in those muscles.

And that in itself is a blessing.

At last I'll be doing something instead of just lying here.

Well, come on, let's get started.

You're right. I'm going to get things going in the kitchen.

Livie.

John.

Come on, John.

All right.

It's ready, ma. Here it comes. It's hot.

Just wait for me to get it.

(Grandpa) Don't scald the young'uns.

(Jim-Bob) Pour the lava out of the volcano.

That's enough.

Here, use this.

Esther, watch your fingers in the wringer.

There's always someone on the sidelines giving orders.

When we get 2 of these,

We should probably take them up to the room, Erin.

- I'll go with you. - Ok.

Uh-Uh-Uh-Uh, Esther.

All right.

Will you be quiet?

(John-Boy) Don't rush it. Come on, Erin.

Here's another one. Here's another pot.

- Who's got a pot here? - Quick.

- Where's the pot? - Hurry up, Ben.

- I've got it. - Grab it.

This can go.

Too hot?

No.

When do we start the exercises?

Not for 2 or 3 more days.

Ok, here.

I'm gonna go down and get some more of those.

Take the can.

Of course.

Put some more water on to boil.

Right.

All right, Livie?

What are you so down about?

[Sighing]

I've been practicing my song.

I'm going to play in the amateur contest.

Well, why should that depress you?

Well, the more I listen to it the less I like it.

I think it's real pretty.

That's because you're my grandma.

If I didn't like it, I'd say so.

Well, don't you think maybe it's too quiet

and slow to please an audience?

Well, if you don't like it, find something else.

I want to play a tune of my own.

Well, something will come to you.

[Sighing]

[playing]

Grandma, don't stop.

I'm finished.

Iron a little longer.

I was just getting a rhythm.

Keep on ironing when the job's done?

Please, grandma, couldn't you just re-Iron that sheet?

Oh, I vow, I don't know what this family

is going to ask me to do next.

A little faster, grandma.

Just hold her under the calf like that

And turn her foot in a little circle.

Ok. Ok.

(John-Boy) you're turning your ankle now.

Think of it. Try to pretend you're doing it.

You're turning your ankle.

Pretend you feel it.

You're turning your ankle. You're turning your ankle.

Ok, now let's do the other leg.

John-Boy. John-Boy, if I could just get on my feet.

You're not ready for it, mama.

Please. Please, come on, help me. Give me a chance.

Ok.

All right, this will save you. Here, scoot up.

- Say if you feel any pain. - I will.

Get her under the... under the arm, Erin.

Ok, 1, 2, 3, up!

It's no good. I can't do it.

[Grunting]

Why am I so impatient?

You've all been so good to me.

Why can't I just be satisfied?

It'll happen.

All right, Erin.

You do the work and I'll do the thinking.

(John-Boy) Ok, now,

You're bending your knee.

Now you're bending your knee.

Keep your brain open.

Keep your... just keep the passage flowing from the brain to the...

pretend you're doing it. You're bending your knee.

You're bending your knee. Now turn her ankle.

You two lose something?

We're looking for our crocuses.

The ones we planted for mama.

Well, I don't see any signs of them.

But what if they never come up?

Oh, they'll come up all right. As soon as they're ready,

Them crocuses will start croaking.

Are you sure of that, grandpa?

I'm as sure of that as I'm sure of anything.

They're nice and snug and warm down there.

They know if they stick their noses up too soon,

Old jack frost might nip them off.

They're our easter present for mama.

Easter, huh?

Well, they've still got plenty of time.

Have a little faith.

Hey.

Well, now, if it isn't the Baldwin sisters.

Welcome, ladies, welcome.

Mr. Walton, I hope you'll excuse this unannounced visit.

Announced or unannounced,

You charming ladies are always most welcome.

You always say exactly the right thing.

My old woman might dispute that,

But be that as it may, I thank you.

We thought we might pay our respects to Olivia.

Well, so far only the immediate members

of the family have been seeing her,

But I do believe you ladies will do her a world of good.

We've also taken the liberty of bringing a gift.

Hmm, you have?

It's right back here.

We wanted something appropriate.

What is it?

It's a most impressive gift.

So thoughtful of you to come and visit me.

We just wanted you to know

You're in our thoughts and prayers.

- That's very kind. - Thank you.

I do believe prayer changes things.

Don't you?

Well, I have an open mind on that, miss Emily.

Of course, the changes

may not always be exactly what we would like.

It isn't always easy to accept.

(Emily) "God's ways seem dark

"but soon or late

they touch the shining hills of day."

That's beautiful.

Can we bring the present in now?

(Mamie) oh, yes, please do.

(Emily) We hoped it might be useful.

It's one of the newest designs.

And Mr. Godsey helped us arrange for it.

Sister and I spoke with Dr. Vance.

It's a very thoughtful present. Thank you.

We wanted to do something practical.

For a change. This was his suggestion.

I...

I hope we haven't overstepped the bounds of friendship?

Oh, no.

The best possible friends and neighbors.

Thank you.

- Sister, we must go. - All right.

Well, we'll come back.

- If we may. - Do.

Maybe after services on Easter.

I'll look forward to it.

(Mamie) - Bye, Olivia. - Bye-Bye.

John.

Livie...

Liv.

It's all right.

And the splints?

Well, taking them off doesn't seem to cause any damage so far,

And these hot packs

probably made her feel a little more comfortable.

Did you test the reflexes?

No change.

[Water bubbling]

Now that's a good, solid wheelchair.

Olivia should manage real well with it,

whenever she's ready.

I don't want to hear any more about wheelchairs!

Now listen, son, that's enough.

No, no, that's... that's all right.

I'd better be going.

I won't allow that kind of disrespect in this house.

The water's boiling.

[G.W. Whistling]

Go on ahead. We'll manage with it.

I'll take that.

You ready? For tonight?

I guess so.

You don't want to back out?

No, do you?

No. I'll be here by 7:30.

Ok.

Oh, G.W., Tonight, don't whistle.

[playing]

[Knocking on door]

[Clearing throat]

- G.W., Come on in. - Thank you.

- Hey, G.W. - Good evening.

Hey, I've seen a suit like that on a dummy before.

- Where's Mary Ellen? - She's upstairs.

Is she sick?

No, she's practicing a few dance steps.

Mrs. Walton'd like to see the 2 of you together

before you go off.

Ok.

[Laughing]

Liv, look who's here.

Hello, g.W.

Hi, Mrs. Walton.

Mary Ellen.

Open your jacket and let me see your suit.

My, you look nice.

Thank you.

What do you think?

You'll be the prettiest girl there.

Mama.

Let's show them how we dance, G.W.

G.W.

Oh, John, aren't they good?

Real good.

Just think what it's going to be like when you have music.

You two run along now, and have a wonderful time.

Thank you, mama.

- Goodbye, Mrs. - Walton. Goodbye, G.W.

Good night, honey.

- G.W., Have a good time. - Bye-Bye.

Don't stay out too late, do you hear?

Ok.

John, would you please get that thing out of my sight?

Livie...

Well, how was it?

Well, at first it was terrible.

I mean, it was worse than I expected.

Everybody was just kind of standing around looking at everybody else.

So G.W. And I got up and started to dance.

And it wasn't so bad.

And when it was time to go home,

Well, I just wished it would never end.

In fact, 3 boys already asked me to the next dance.

Well, how did G.W. Feel about that?

Well, he wanted me to promise not to go dancing with anybody but him.

Did you promise?

I told him I'd think about it.

That's my girl.

Thanks, mama.

Why don't you go get ready for bed,

Then come and sit with us for a while.

Ok.

Don't forget to hang up your dress.

Ok.

[Door closing]

Here you go.

Jason, my boy, tonight is your big night.

Well, maybe.

I wish we could be there to hear you.

I'm gonna tell you something.

You're gonna be.

Really? How?

Hold on there, John.

You realize what a pretty penny it'd cost

to take this entire outfit to that show?

It's not going to cost much money, pa.

We're getting a special discount because Jason's playing.

And when he gets up there on that stage,

I think he should hear from us Waltons.

[All cheering]

Good luck, Jason.

You can tell Livie and me all about it

when you get home.

You're going, too, grandma.

You got to go. You inspired the song.

Well, I'd like to, but Livie might need something.

I'm staying home with mama. I want to.

That's settled, then.

Pass those biscuits. Here, give me some butter.

Take them off, please.

But, mama, it isn't time.

Please take them off. I can't stand them another minute.

Honey, I'm sorry for snapping at you like that.

After you've been so gentle.

That's ok, mama.

If I was you I'd be yelling all the time.

[Car approaching]

Sounds like daddy and the children.

They're coming in the house now.

I hope Jason won.

They're awfully quiet.

Then that might mean that Jason didn't win.

Well, how was it? Did Jason get the prize?

I'm not going to tell you what happened.

We're going to show you what happened.

Come on. Here we go.

Get that comforter. Let's go.

[Olivia laughing]

All right, watch the chair. Watch the chair, Jason.

Ok, ready?

(John) look who's here. Look who's here.

[All cheering]

Miss first-Nighter.

It's good to be down here with all of you.

I'll tell you what we were thinking.

We were riding back tonight

And we realized that you and Erin

Have not seen one of the best shows ever.

So we decided to do a little show for you.

Grandpa's kindly volunteered

To play the part of Mr., Uh, Osgood.

Osgood Tennyson.

The greatest discoverer of raw talent in the world.

[All cheering]

I do believe I'm too modest to do the part justice.

[Laughing] but still, I'll try.

Please, no applause.

Very well, if you insist.

Now, my friends, for i know you are my friends,

faithfully listening to my incomparable show

each and every monday night

on your favorite radio station.

First, to start off with, uh,

We have the greatest animal act

I have ever seen in my life:

The whistler and his dog.

[All cheering]

Ok. Sit up.

[All laughing]

Shake hands.

Play dead.

[All laughing]

There, now, didn't I tell you? Didn't I tell you?

That dog, now, he's absolutely brilliant.

But, uh, we could do with a new master.

[All laughing]

And now, to mosey along, our next act is:

Eleanor the elocutionist.

[All cheering]

Mary had a little lamb, its fleece was black as soot.

And everywhere that Mary went, his sooty foot he put.

Didn't I tell you? Oh, she's marvelous.

Just brilliant.

And to think that she's only 39.

And now for the great act of the evening,

Our contestant, Mr. Jasbo Walton.

Mr. Ji-Jas-Ja-Jasbo wilton. Monsieur Jasbo Walton.

Ja-Jaso... mon-Monsieur Jason Walton

And his celebrated guitar solo,

The ironing board blues.

[All cheering]

I'd like to dedicate this song

To my grandma, who inspired it.

™ª daddy's in the saw mill cutting railroad ties ♪

™ª mama's in the kitchen baking apple pies ♪

™ª grandpa and the children have their chores to do ♪

™ª while grandma tries to iron out ♪

™ª the ironing board blues ♪

™ª oh, the ironing board blues is old and it's new ♪

™ª it's fast or it's slow ♪

™ª it's just whatever you chose ♪

™ª you needn't be afraid to state your views ♪

™ª and tell all the world ♪

™ª you got the ironing board blues ♪

™ª grandma gets her rhythm rocking to and fro ♪

™ª her feet tap syncopation on the kitchen floor ♪

™ª the ironing board is squeaking on the one and the two ♪

™ª and you know that grandma Walton's playing the ironing board blues ♪

™ª oh, the ironing board blues is old and it's new ♪

™ª it's fast or it's slow, it's just whatever you chose ♪

™ª you needn't be afraid to state your views ♪

™ª and tell all the world ♪

™ª you've got the ironing board blues ♪♪

[All cheering]

Now, folks, although the other contestants

were celebrated and equally talented,

I think there's no doubt

We must award first prize in this contest

to monsieur jasbo Walton, or whatever.

[All laughing]

Here it is.

Thank you.

Jason, what a handsome guitar.

It's a humdinger all right.

(Olivia) I'm so proud of you.

And thank you all for the show.

It was almost as good as being there.

(John-Boy) Play something on the new guitar for mama.

[Sighing]

Esther,

It's been a long, hard day. Go to sleep.

Can't you see I'm praying?

Put in a good word for me.

I always do.

I need all the help I can get.

- Zeb... - Mmm-Hmm.

You were real good tonight as the announcer.

Not that good.

(John-Boy) Easter is less than a week away.

Spring is still not in sight,

and mama seems no closer to walking.

Suppose this is the year when spring never comes,

no green buds, no blossoms

With the promise of fruit and harvest?

Men must have shared these same doubts for thousands of years.

Asked themselves,

"What must we do to bring back spring?

"What can we offer you in exchange for an end to winter?"

The beginnings of new life.

Mama strong and well again.

What can we do?

And don't you think you've done enough for one day?

No, today I am going to take some steps.

[Laughing] mama.

Thought maybe I'd stroll over to the door.

Isn't that a nice word, John-Boy?

"Stroll."

I never realized before

how many beautiful words we have to describe walking.

"Amble. Pace.

Stride. Saunter."

[Grunting] Up.

What it all comes down to is putting one foot in front of the other

without falling on the floor.

Stand away, John-Boy, today I'm going to do it.

It's now or never.

[Grunts]

If at first you don't succeed...

[grunting]

Ok, ok, ok.

[Panting]

Why can't I do it?

My legs are so much stronger. The pain is gone.

What's the matter with me?

You're doing your best.

I'm not, or else I'd be able to walk.

Stroll.

Amble.

Saunter. Livie!

Now that's enough. No more.

If you try any more

You're going to undo everything you've accomplished.

Everything I've accomplished?

Let's get back to bed.

Give me your arm.

Up.

Easy.

[Panting]

You know, you're right, mama.

Your muscles seem better, your reflexes are good.

- Maybe you're trying too hard. - John-Boy, that's enough.

Sometimes when you're trying to learn something new

and your mind wants your body to do certain things,

the more you think about it, the stubborner your body gets.

I remember when daddy was trying to teach me how to swim,

wt first I was all tense and just straining

to remember everything he'd said to me,

And I just nearly drowned. But as soon as I just loosened up

And didn't think so much, it came real easy to me.

I am very tired.

Maybe tomorrow.

Tomorrow might be a good day

to start getting used to my wheelchair.

- Mama... - Come on.

Close the door, please. I want to get some rest.

[Sighing]

Grandma, she's tired and disappointed. Tomorrow when she feels...

Tomorrow your mama's gonna start using the wheelchair.

I don't see how you can say that.

You should know as well as I do

that she can't stop trying to walk!

You and I started this whole thing.

She's done her best. We all have. Now it's just no use.

I don't believe that! There's strength in her legs.

I'm not going to let her give up!

John-Boy, will you stop tormenting her and yourself?

The only way your mama's going to get any peace of mind

is to resign herself to God's will.

You think it's god's will that mama spends the rest of her life

in a wheelchair or hobbling around on crutches?

So it seems.

Well, if that's your God, grandma,

I won't accept his will, for mama or myself!

John-Boy!

John-Boy!

John-Boy!

What's wrong?

You better go after him, son.

Well, I hope you've run yourself out, son.

I sure have.

It's quite a drop.

Better be careful, son.

You never know when a piece of that earth's gonna drop off.

Yeah.

I guess in this world you just can't count on anything, can you?

I just don't believe that, John-Boy.

Mama's given up. She's given up.

Grandma says that's for the best.

She says we have to accept that as god's will.

John-Boy,

I think maybe your grandma's right.

Oh, daddy, all my life I've been preached to

About this God of love and mercy watching over us.

You just show me one thing

that's loving and merciful about this.

I don't know that I can, son.

Of course you can't.

What kind of a god would do this?

You feel he hasn't kept up his part of the bargain, huh?

He hasn't.

Well,

Maybe that's because it's your bargain, not his.

I don't know much about this personal god

that your mama and your grandma believe in,

But I do know there's a power working in our lives,

Protecting us, blessing us all these years, son.

And we've accepted those blessings.

Now it's time for us to accept the other.

That's you saying that?

You're saying that to me?

You? That's like lying down.

That's like... that's like quitting.

It's like looking up at the sky and saying:

"Ok, lord, it's all right with me if it's your will."

I don't accept that, daddy,

and I don't see how you can accept that.

Now listen, son, it's not my way to lie down

and let life kick me in the face.

And it's not your mama's way either.

I mean, things you can change you gotta try to change.

But some things you can't change in life.

Standing around and shaking your fist at the sky

Is not going to change it.

It may make you feel better for a minute or 2,

But it doesn't change anything, son!

Daddy, you listen to me. When I was a little boy I worshipped you.

I worshipped the ground you walked on.

And I tried with all my heart

To believe everything you told me.

And I tried to be just like you.

But right now we've come to a fork in the road,

And I just don't believe one word you're saying to me.

John-Boy, you're going to have to find your own answers, son.

But this much I do know,

Good times and bad times come to all of us.

And what counts... [John sobbing]

What counts, son, is the way you take them.

What you let those times do to you.

That's what counts, son.

It's not enough for me.

John-Boy, that's all I got to say to you.

I'm sorry. It's not enough, daddy.

I'm sorry.

[Rain pattering]

Listen to that rain.

(John) We sure need it.

The last storm of winter.

Or maybe the first spring rain.

John, is that wheelchair still around?

Yes, it is, Liv. It's, uh...

it's out in the hallway.

Tomorrow I'm gonna start learning how to use it.

What's happened, Liv?

This afternoon I had a little lesson in humility.

Got to get back to the business

of living with things the way they are,

instead of the way I wish they could be.

You sure?

Mmm-Hmm.

Good night. Good night.

[Sighing]

[Birds chirping]

(Elizabeth) Mama!

Mama!

Mommy, come and help me.

Mama! Mama! Mama! Help me, mama, help me!

The devil's after me.

Mama! Mama!

Livie.

I heard Elizabeth call.

I just had to go to her.

She was having a bad dream.

I'm all right.

I'm all right.

I'm all right.

[Chuckling]

Oh, look.

Isn't that beautiful?

It's our surprise, mama.

Olivia, how did you do it?

I don't know.

Maybe you were right, John-Boy.

Maybe I was trying too hard.

When I just got up without thinking...

Well, look at me.

[Laughing]

I can walk as well as any one-Year-Old in the county.

I just may take you dancing when you grow up.

[All laughing]

I will walk.

I'll be walking by easter.

(Rev. Fordwick) "I am the light of the world, sayeth the lord.

"He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness,

but shall have the light of life."

(Congregation) ♪ raise your voice and triumphs high ♪

™ª hallelujah ♪

™ª sing ye heavens and earthly blithe ♪

™ª hallelujah ♪

™ª must redeeming work is ours ♪

™ª hallelujah ♪

(John-Boy) My mother did go

To the sunrise service that easter morning,

And there was a special joy in all our hearts

As she stood leaning on my father's arm,

Facing into the first glorious rays of the sun

which rolled back the darkness

and warmed the wakening world to new life and hope.

Many easters have passed since then.

Other springs have been slow to come

But inevitably winter has yielded to spring.

The years have brought the full quota of blessings and trials,

Joys and heartaches.

The same old questions recur:

"Why my child? Why my wife? Why me? Why?"

And the search for answers has been taken up

by new generations of grandchildren.

But it's still reassuring for me

to catch the echo of those dear, familiar voices

on that Easter long, long ago.

™ª hallelujah ♪♪

[Crickets chirping]

(Elizabeth) Mama?

(Olivia) Yes, Elizabeth?

Which crocuses did you like the best?

The blue, or the yellow, or the white?

They're all so lovely, I liked them all equally.

Same as us children?

That's right.

Good night, mama.

Good night, Elizabeth.

Subtitles: mrtinkles Ressynch/lowercase: Kilo