"Touch me," the man demanded.

"What?"

"If you're so convinced that I'm not a ghost, then touch me and prove it."

Owen reached out. His fingers almost made contact, but then he drew them back. "This is nonsense "

"No, this is your life; and you're screwing it up royally."

"My life is not your concern, nor is it open to discussion." Owen turned to retreat into the house. The figure was now blocking his way. "How did you...?"

Owen turned. The man was no longer behind him, but had somehow moved in front. "No man can move that fast."

"Never said I was a man," the figure noted. "I'm Doctor Beech, your grandfather..."

"My grandfather is dead." Owen challenged.

"So I am...but even as a ghost, I'm more of a man than you...but that's going to change, Owen. You might go kicking and screaming, but you're going to change."

Before Owen could respond, the figure in front of him became less solid. It appeared as if he were some transparency. Owen could see through him, and then he faded away.

And so began the transformation of Dr. Owen Cooper. He hated the world. He hated people. He hated his job. And he hated himself. But God had determined that He would use whatever means necessary to turn him around - even if this meant using the ghost of his departed grandfather.

Dennis Knotts is publishing his father's book posthumously.

Moody D. Knotts, Jr. 1922-2005