Theme: Forbidden Love, Faith, Loss, and Enduring Devotion

Characters: Jeremiah (young black farmer), Mildred (terminally ill Amish woman), Joanna (Mildred’s mother), Elijah (Mildred’s father), Mildred’s brothers (older, rough), Mildred’s sister (younger, soft-spoken), Barbara (Jeremiah’s wife).

Setting: Rural Pennsylvania, 1974-2002. The crossroads near Jeremiah and Mildred's homes, Mildred's Amish farm, Jeremiah's farm, Mildred's grave.

Scripture Reference: 1 Corinthians 13 (Love is patient, love is kind…), John 11 (raising of Lazarus – could be a parallel to the hope of resurrection and eternal love), Psalm 23 (The Lord is my shepherd… – could represent comfort and peace in loss).

Additional Details: The story will explore the complexities of Jeremiah and Mildred's unspoken love, highlighting the cultural and societal barriers between them (racial and religious differences). It will show the acceptance and kindness of Mildred's family towards Jeremiah, despite the impossible nature of their relationship. The narrative will focus on Jeremiah's unwavering devotion to Mildred's memory, even after her death and his subsequent marriage. The story will emphasize faith as a source of strength and comfort during grief and loss, and the enduring nature of true love that transcends earthly limitations. The contrast between the vibrant, hopeful beginning of their connection and the quiet, sorrowful acceptance of their fate will be a central element. The daily visits to Mildred's grave will symbolize Jeremiah's persistent love and faith in an afterlife where their love might be fulfilled. The story could explore the internal conflict Jeremiah faces between his love for Mildred and his life with Barbara, emphasizing the complexities of love and loss. The story could also explore the themes of acceptance, forgiveness, and the power of faith to overcome obstacles. The Amish community's beliefs and traditions will be respectfully portrayed, adding depth to the setting and the challenges faced by the characters.