The Unexpected Gift of Mickeyville: An Artist's Inspiration

The gift a gentle giant named Mickey left me was a small wooden crucifix from the miniature town of Mickeyville, which he lovingly built. Mickey, my father's cousin, was a talented woodworker who created a detailed miniature town called Mickeyville in the forest near my grandparent's lake house. This town, which included houses, a school, a church with a tall steeple, and even a hospital next to railroad tracks, was a testament to his hidden talents. Though Mickey was called an "idiot" by some, he was a kind soul who taught me about the forest and fishing. Years later, after Mickey and my grandparents were gone, I revisited the ruins of Mickeyville and retrieved the crucifix from the church. Today, this crucifix sits on my altar, serving as my favorite piece of art and a cherished memory of Mickey.