The episode itself proves that souls 'cursed' have a lesson to learn. In any respects, the town had to learn courage, Little Joe had to teach that lesson in order for him and the town to 'grow up' on the path of life. I realize at the end, when Little Joe's love interest tried to tell him the truth of their existence it was all to late. Mrs O'Brien realized Little Joe was different, and he lead the town to courage which her husband had failed to do. Out in the desert, out in the wilderness, we have to truly appreciate the mysteries that happen along the way. Twilight Zone or not, this episode reflects our own mysteries of life. Why was the horse stolen and why did Little Joe go through this situation? That's really the big question I wanted to know, of Little Joe's adventures why this? Was he the chosen one for the redemption of this 'cursed' town? Perhaps! Little Joe had to grow up himself, and prove his worth to those 'trapped' as he is a man they can vouch for in the afterlife.