I was only 9 years old.

I loved The Thirty Years War so much, I had all the merchandise and movies.

I pray to Gustavus Adolphus every night, thanking him for the life

I’ve been given. “The Thirty Years War is love” I say, “The Thirty Years War is life."

My dad hears me and calls me a heretic. I knew he was just jealous of my devotion to The Thirty Years War.

I called him a papist.

He hits me and sends me to sleep.

I'm crying now and my face hurts.

I lay in bed, really cold. I feel something warm...

It's Gustavus Adolphus! I was so happy.

He whispers in my ear "This is my religion."

He grabs me with his protestant hands, and puts me on my hands and knees. I'm ready.

I listen for Gustavus Adolphus.

He teaches me about the church.

It hurts so much, but I do it for Gustavus. I can feel my brain tearing and eyes watering.

I want to please The Lion of the North.

He roars a mighty roar as he fills my brain with his truth.

My dad walks in.

Gustavus looks him straight in the eye and says, "Gott Mitt Uns."

Gustavus leaves through my window.

Gustavus is love. Gustavus is life.

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