[stylist] Opinions?

[Barbara Hammel]

Ah, I understand.  I just got confused because it seemed like just the 
children were at the service before the meal.
I guess I'm just confused.  Let me read it again.  The children go back to 
school tomorrow after two snow days last week.  (I read the story when I was 
either getting a break or just before bed.  I'll apply myself next time.
Barbara

A Congress that will always do its work in the dark must have something to 
hide.  The people have spoken, yet they do not listen.

--------------------------------------------------
From: "Judith Bron" <jbron at optonline.net>
Sent: Sunday, January 10, 2010 9:04 AM
To: "Writer's Division Mailing List" <stylist at nfbnet.org>
Subject: Re: [stylist] Opinions?

> Hi Barbara, Thanks for the feedback.  I didn' think the meal after Shabbos 
> services had to be defined because I remember all my Christian friends 
> growing up as having a big meal after Sunday services.  I never joined 
> them for the meal, but I knew from the description of the preparations 
> that it was a big deal.  Judith
> ----- Original Message ----- 
> From: "Barbara Hammel" <poetlori8 at msn.com>
> To: "Writer's Division Mailing List" <stylist at nfbnet.org>
> Sent: Friday, January 08, 2010 10:48 PM
> Subject: Re: [stylist] Opinions?
>
>
> I am captivated by the story.  If you're looking for any critique of 
> grammar
> or anything, I'm out.  One thing, though, that meal or something they
> prepare after the Sabbath service.  We non-Jews might need to know what's 
> so
> important about it.  Thanks for putting Sabbath in parentheses for the 
> first
> time so we knew what that was.
> Maybe I'm asking for too much detail that may bore other readers, but if
> they're Jewish you might as well educate us.  I've read some Christian
> romance novels that are set in Amish country.  There are plenty of details
> about the customs and traditions.
> Barbara
>
> A Congress that will always do its work in the dark must have something to
> hide.  The people have spoken, yet they do not listen.
>
> --------------------------------------------------
> From: "Judith Bron" <jbron at optonline.net>
> Sent: Tuesday, December 29, 2009 3:43 PM
> To: "Stylist" <stylist at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: [stylist] Opinions?
>
>> Here are the completed first three chapters of my book.  I encourage 
>> anyone to give me their feedback.  Happy New Year!  Judith
>>
>> First Three Chapters THE LETTER
>>
>> By Judith Bron
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> CHAPTER ONE
>>
>>
>>
>> Curtis Cove, New York November 1977
>>
>> Jennifer's thoughts were a safe haven and the only place she could escape 
>> to for security.  Usually while in her hypnotic state she managed to be 
>> cognizant of the world around her.  But this Saturday morning she was so 
>> deep in thought she managed to block out the sounds of people talking, 
>> kids playing and horns honking.    The beautiful light brown haired girl 
>> wandered aimlessly down the street in the teenage uniform of jeans, 
>> sweater and navy ski jacket thinking about her inability to love anyone. 
>> Suddenly horns blared, tires squealed and sirens wailed.  She lay on the 
>> street oblivious to the sounds and horror engulfing her.
>>
>> Randy, the well muscled captain of her high school football team, jogged 
>> down the street towards the accident with his blond hair flying in all 
>> directions.  He saw Jennifer lying in the street with a policeman 
>> hovering over her.  "Is she all right?"
>>
>> "Don't know.  Just called for an ambulance.  Who is she?"
>>
>> "Jennifer Rabinowitz.  She lives a block from here."
>>
>> "Can you get her parents?"
>>
>> "She's an orphan.  I'll get her Foster mother.    Where are they taking 
>> her?"
>>
>> "Arthur Memorial Hospital.  They have a good Trauma Center."
>>
>> Jennifer lay immobile and unconscious, her luxurious long hair covering 
>> her face.  Randy's inclination was to brush it aside, but he couldn't get 
>> that close.  With one last glance at Jennifer he took off for the 
>> Hamilton house.
>>
>> A burly technician at the scene yelled, "Get the oxygen.  Respiratory 
>> distress!"
>>
>> Unaware of the flurry of activity around her Jennifer floated over her 
>> body ending up in a different place.  A woman approached her.  "Jennifer, 
>> it's me, Mommy.  I want you to know I love you.  "
>>
>> Jennifer started following her mother.
>>
>> Sheila and Randy ran into the emergency room shortly after Jennifer had 
>> been brought in.
>>
>> The waiting doctors began their examination immediately.  Dr. Green, a 
>> skinny, balding middle aged man wearing wire rimmed glasses commanded, 
>> "Get the defibrillator."
>>
>>  Unaware of the furor around her Jennifer said, "Mommy, I want to stay 
>> here.  My life is awful.  I can't love anyone."
>>
>> "Your life will get better.  Wonderful people will prove to you that you 
>> can love and be loved."
>>
>> The medical staff brought the equipment necessary to resuscitate 
>> Jennifer. Dr. Green applied the panels to Jennifer's chest.  A huge burst 
>> of energy started her heart beating again.  Jennifer took a deep, labored 
>> breath. In the hospital room a cheer went up among the doctors and 
>> nurses.  As soon as Jennifer began breathing on her own she was trundled 
>> at top speed to a CAT scan which showed the medical team that neither her 
>> spine nor limbs were broken.  She didn't have any internal bleeding.  Dr. 
>> Green said to no one in particular, "This is one lucky girl."
>>
>> Randy and Sheila sat in the waiting room anxiously awaiting word about 
>> Jennifer.  Randy glanced at his watch.  "I have to call the coach to tell 
>> him I'm not playing this afternoon and Jennifer's not cheering.  Be right 
>> back."
>>
>> Once Jennifer was put in a room Randy and Sheila kept vigil beside her 
>> bed gazing bleakly at the   oxygen, bottles of fluid and monitor. 
>> Sheila, a short brown haired exercise enthusiast thought, this is a 
>> nightmare!  She mentioned to Randy, "I hope Cindy can handle the kids."
>>
>> Randy wondered if his beautiful friend with the perfect complexion and 
>> sad eyes would ever cheer for a football game again.  After her recovery 
>> would she still be the most gorgeous girl in the world?  Once she was 
>> back to normal would she continue to refuse his dates?
>>
>> An alarm on the monitor went off bringing nurses and Dr. Green rushing 
>> into the room pushing the platform that held the electric paddles. 
>> Oblivious to the panic around her body Jennifer told her mother, "Mommy, 
>> I don't want to go back.  I'm different from the other kids.  They remind 
>> me all the time."
>>
>> "Differences are good.  You have a beautiful life ahead of you.  It's 
>> time to go back now."
>>
>> "No, Mommy!  Don't make me go!"
>>
>> Jennifer slammed back into her body.  Dr. Green lifted the defibrillator, 
>> vastly relieved.  "Welcome back, Jennifer.  Hang in there."
>>
>> Randy leaned forward and spoke to the sleeping girl.  "Keep fighting, 
>> Jennifer.  We're all praying for you."
>>
>> They kept vigil beside her bed.  At one point Randy said, "I can't do 
>> much here.  I better head over to the field.  Be back right after the 
>> game." Sheila continued praying that her favorite foster child would be 
>> all right.  Jennifer would open her eyes briefly before slipping back 
>> into either slumber or unconsciousness.  Sheila couldn't tell.  She just 
>> kept watching, waiting and praying while the medical staff entered the 
>> room to take Jennifer's vitals and read the monitors.
>>
>> When Randy returned after the game Jennifer woke for more than a few 
>> minutes.  Sheila asked, "How do you feel, Jennifer?"
>>
>> "Weak and sore.  Do I really need this oxygen?"
>>
>> "I'll check.  Can I get you something to eat?"
>>
>> "If it's not too much I'd like a cheese sandwich."
>>
>> "Let me find out."
>>
>> After she left Randy said, "I played today.  Everyone sends their best 
>> wishes.  I was so upset that I blew a touchdown pass.  We lost."
>>
>> Jennifer responded weakly, "I'm sorry, Randy.  I know how much that 
>> trophy means to you."
>>
>> Carrying a sandwich and cup of juice Sheila appeared at her bedside. 
>> "The nurse said the doctor will be in soon to see about the oxygen.  I 
>> brought you a sandwich."
>>
>> "Thanks, Sheila."
>>
>> Jennifer started eating her sandwich and Sheila said, "I have to get 
>> going.  Cindy has plans for tonight and Ted has to work.  I'll send Ted 
>> up with your things.  See you in the morning."  She kissed Jennifer and 
>> left.
>>
>> A minute later a tall, good looking doctor stepped in moving with the 
>> assuredness of someone who evoked trust from his patients.  "Good 
>> evening, Jennifer.  I'm Dr. Jackson.  I'm covering Dr. Green's patients 
>> tonight. Mrs. Hamilton asked the nurse about the oxygen.  I want to keep 
>> it going until tomorrow morning.  Dr. Green will evaluate you at that 
>> time.  Is there anything else I can do for you?"
>>
>> "Can I take a shower?"
>>
>> "When the nurse comes in tomorrow she'll help you with that.  Is 
>> everything else all right?"
>>
>> "I guess so.  Thanks."
>>
>> Jennifer flashed a painful smile at Randy.  Sounding weak she said,   "I 
>> don't remember anything.  Can you tell me about it?"
>>
>> Randy described the activities that morning.  "At one point your heart 
>> stopped beating.  It was strange.  You looked so peaceful.  Do you 
>> remember anything?"
>>
>> She lied, "I don't remember a thing.  I had no idea it was that serious."
>>
>> "How do you feel now?"
>>
>> "I nearly died, but other than that fine."
>>
>> Randy laughed. "Can I ask you a serious question?"
>>
>> "Sure.  But please forgive me if I'm not in the mood to answer it."
>>
>> "What will it take for you to go out with me?"
>>
>> "Randy, there's a lot going on in my head.  I need time to straighten it 
>> all out.  Right now you are the best friend I have in the world.  Just 
>> keep on being my friend.  That's the best thing you can do for me."
>>
>> "I know others give you a hard time about your last name.  Is that part 
>> of the problem you have to work out?"
>>
>> "That's a big part of it.  I don't know who I am.  You guys know your 
>> parents, what they expect from you and people to turn to when you need 
>> answers to important questions.  I haven't had that since I was two.
>>
>> "I also have my career in clothing design to think about.  I guess right 
>> now that's my identity.  But how can you create an identity out of a 
>> spool of thread, a piece of cloth and sewing notions?  I need more than 
>> that.  I need to explore this Jewish thing.  I guess my parents were 
>> Jewish.  How else would I end up with a name like Rabinowitz?  Right now 
>> I don't know where to begin my search."
>>
>> "If there's anything I can do to help you just ask."
>>
>> "Randy, do I have all kinds of bruises on my face?"
>>
>> Randy smiled.  "You look like the most beautiful girl in the world who 
>> got into a fight and almost lost."
>>
>> "I guess I didn't lose.  When I get up my courage I'll look in the 
>> mirror."
>>
>> "You're looking tired.  I'll be back tomorrow morning."
>>
>> "Good night, Randy.  Thanks for being here."
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> CHAPTER Two
>>
>>
>>
>> The Same Saturday morning in Jenna, New York:
>>
>> On this overcast morning Pessi quietly came up behind two schoolmates 
>> after Sabbath services.  She heard the petite Miriam sporting perfectly 
>> styled dark hair say to a taller Ruthie with blond hair falling in 
>> perfect waves, "Can you believe she goes in public looking so disgusting? 
>> Her coat is a reject from a charity sale.  Those shoes haven't been seen 
>> since the Revolutionary War! Her hair is a nesting place for rats with 
>> bad taste.  Nothing in the coatroom stood out like the moth holes in her 
>> coat! Gross!  I hear she has a family, but no one with any self-respect 
>> has claimed her.
>>
>> "I have to get home.  Rabbi Goldberg's speaking this afternoon.  Want to 
>> go?"
>>
>> Ruthie stopped laughing long enough to answer her friend. "Sure. 
>> Everyone goes to hear Rabbi Goldberg."
>>
>> "Great.  I'll pick you up after lunch."
>>
>> Engrossed in their conversation Pessi didn't think the renowned gossips 
>> noticed her.  Pessi had to smile at their creative comments.  She knew 
>> very well how she looked, but circumstances did this to a person.  Could 
>> girls like Ruthie and Miriam ever understand there were more important 
>> things in a girl's life than clothes and beauticians?
>>
>> Here comes Chavy!
>>
>> Under the overcast November sky Chavy Levy headed home from the synagogue 
>> her parents attended for years.  The most popular girl in her class, 
>> Chavy had only three problems.  She had to lose 10 pounds, her older 
>> brother Yigal had to be the most obnoxious person in the world to live 
>> with, and she hated math.  She couldn't figure out why she had to be in a 
>> class which had nothing to do with her future.  She had no idea what she 
>> would be doing after graduation, but becoming a math teacher wasn't an 
>> option! Still, she had to pass or her parents would have a fit.  While 
>> strolling along on this Shabbos, Sabbath, morning she admired her 
>> surroundings where the men wore traditional hats and younger boys donned 
>> skullcaps appropriate for children.  The tall Chavy tossed her shining 
>> brown hair over her shoulder, and focused her beautiful brown eyes on the 
>> passers by. Women walked with husbands, children or friends. All wore 
>> clothing reflecting the special day.  This afternoon Chavy and her 
>> friends planned to go to the B'nos club for girls which met every Shabbos 
>> afternoon to hear Rabbi Goldberg, the most popular lecturer in the 
>> series.  Chavy honestly believed her class to be the greatest.  They all 
>> got along while having a ball working together except for Pessi Goldberg 
>> who didn't talk to anyone.  Chavy shrugged her shoulders and continued on 
>> her way.
>>
>> At home her mother met her with the traditional Sabbath greeting.  "Good 
>> Shabbos, Chavy."
>>
>> "Good Shabbos, Mommy.  What can I do to help?"
>>
>> "Can you finish this salad so I can get dressed?"
>>
>> Pessi's flashback to earlier that day:
>>
>> Now home after services Pessi greeted her mother who remarked that 
>> morning, "Pessi, you have to become involved with the girls at school.  I 
>> know many of their mothers, and they are wonderful people."
>>
>> Pessi told her, "Some of them are probably very nice and the rest aren't 
>> my type.  I have the right to be alone."
>>
>> Her mother rebuked, "It isn't normal for a sixteen year old girl to exist 
>> only for homework and her family.  You're a beautiful girl with a lot to 
>> offer others.  Please make an effort to become friends with the girls at 
>> school.  Now you have to get to Shul.  Want to put your hair in a bun?"
>>
>> "Mommy, I've told you before my hair is too thick for a bun.  One of 
>> these days I'll get it cut."
>>
>> "Pessi, all I'm asking you to do is try."
>>
>> "Good Shabbos, Mommy." She had put on her ugly coat and headed for her 
>> father's synagogue.  She preferred to run her life her way, and if that 
>> meant being alone.
>>
>> Mrs. Levy returned to the kitchen where her daughter stood finishing the 
>> salad.  A few minutes later   the family sat down to their Shabbos meal.
>>
>> The legendary arguments between Chavy and her dark haired, good looking 
>> brother Yigal started almost immediately.  "Chavy, where's the grape 
>> juice?"
>>
>> "On the door of the fridge."
>>
>> "Why isn't it on the table?"  Yigal needed the drink to say the required 
>> prayer over wine or grape juice before his Shabbos meal.
>>
>> "Go and get it.  The bottle isn't heavy."
>>
>> Their father boomed, "I've had enough from the two of you!  You can both 
>> bring the juice to the table."  They glanced at each other before getting 
>> up.  The Rabbi continued, "When you get back I don't want either of you 
>> saying a word.  Obviously you're not mature enough to talk decently to 
>> anyone."
>>
>> Done straightening up after the meal Chavy and her petite, pretty sister 
>> Chumy with chin length light brown hair got ready for B'nos.  Yigal told 
>> Chavy, "You better be home for sudat shlishit.  You're the only one who 
>> prepares the third Sabbath meal so well."
>>
>> "It would serve you right if I couldn't be here. Then you'll be forced to 
>> make it yourself!"
>>
>> "I can't even compliment you without some smart answer.  O.K. Chavy, 
>> Don't come home to make your horrid food.  We'll live longer without it!" 
>> He smiled at her revealing the dimple in his right cheek.
>>
>> "All right, Yigal.  I won't be here.  I'm sure I can find a place where 
>> they'll take me in."
>>
>> "Don't bet on it, Chavy.  It obviously takes a strong person like me to 
>> put up with you."
>>
>> At the school door Chavy heard the tenth grade yentas behind her.  Miriam 
>> said, "Do you think the reject with the rat's nest on her head wearing 
>> her home for displaced moths will show up?"
>>
>> An equally cruel Ruthie answered, "I don't think she would have the nerve 
>> to socialize with civilized society.  B'nos isn't a place for outcasts."
>>
>> Chavy's temper flared.  She threw them a dirty look.  "Don't you have 
>> anything else to talk about?  What bothers you about a girl you don't 
>> know?  Life contains a lot of hard lessons.  Someday you're going to find 
>> that out."  The two of them returned her dirty look before going to hang 
>> up their coats.
>>
>> Our first glimpse into Pessi's introverted persona-
>>
>> Chavy entered the school auditorium, already half full for the Rabbi's 
>> lecture.  To her surprise Pessi sat alone in the back.  She saw the 
>> overgrown hair, ugly shoes, and sad eyes.  Chavy wondered about this girl 
>> who arrived at school just as the bell rang and always left when the 
>> first dismissal bell sounded without a word to anyone.  During lunch she 
>> sat with her Psalm book saying nothing to any of the girls.  Gossips like 
>> Miriam and Ruthie entertained themselves with Pessi Goldberg jokes, but 
>> most girls tried to get Pessi involved with the mainstream student body. 
>> When it was obvious they failed, the feeling became pity.
>>
>> Now Chavy observed the brunt of jokes by the narrow minds and object of 
>> pity for most of the girls, feeling bewildered.  Well, the bewilderment 
>> had to stop and once and for all she had to make contact with this 
>> mysterious girl.  She never remembered seeing Pessi before on Shabbos. 
>> The contrast between Pessi's clothes and the others was glaring.  While 
>> most girls wore nice Shabbos clothes, Pessi wore a simple skirt and 
>> sweater appropriate for the weekday.  Pessi sat there reading the same 
>> Psalm book she read all week.  Chavy knew the time had come to jump over 
>> Pessi's self constructed barrier.
>>
>> With fortified convictions she approached her classmate.  "Good Shabbos, 
>> Pessi.  How are you?"
>>
>> "Good Shabbos, Chavy.  I'm waiting for Rabbi Goldberg.  I need some of 
>> the emotional support he always gives."  Pessi returned to her book, 
>> signaling the end of the conversation.    Chavy never remembered Pessi 
>> communicating more than a cursory greeting until now.
>>
>> Determined to help her classmate Chavy said, "Pessi, come sit with the 
>> class."
>>
>> Pessi raised her clear blue eyes.  "I'm fine right here."  She lowered 
>> her eyes to her book, again conveying the end of the conversation.
>>
>> Though an assertive girl who always managed to control any situation she 
>> found herself in, Chavy felt intimidated by Pessi who exhibited a certain 
>> inner strength she couldn't match.   Baffled, she sat down near the girl, 
>> trying to think of what she could say to at least entice her to join the 
>> group.  "Pessi, you're a nice girl, but you don't talk to anyone."
>>
>> "My life is different. I have nothing in common with any of you."  Pessi 
>> returned her attention to her book.
>>
>> Chavy stared at the girl absorbed in her Psalm book.  She thought Pessi 
>> could be very pretty if she had a hair cut and wore nicer clothes.  Her 
>> eyes, outlined by thick, luxurious lashes, seemed sad.  Chavy wondered 
>> what lay under this façade.
>>
>> Both girls were sixteen, but Pessi had never been to a school social 
>> event, a class birthday party or someone else's house for Shabbos.
>>
>> She had to try one more time.  "Pessi, we want to be your friend.  Please 
>> come sit with us."
>>
>> "Chavy, I'm here for the Rabbi's lecture, and have to go after he's 
>> finished."
>>
>> "All I'm asking you to do is sit with us.  I already told my brother I'm 
>> not coming back to make Sudat shlishit for him.  I don't feel like it. 
>> How about it?  Come sit with us, stay for refreshments, and I'll go back 
>> to help you with whatever you have to do."
>>
>> In a soft voice Pessi answered, "I don't want to impose."
>>
>> The well-rehearsed Chavy immediately shot back, "I don't want to go back 
>> to my brothers today.  I'll go home with you and call my father after 
>> Shabbos to pick me up."
>>
>> Chavy was good.  Pessi felt herself giving in.    She smiled for the 
>> first time.   "All right, Chavy.  Let's go sit with the others."
>>
>> The tall girls reached the front of the auditorium just as the Rabbi with 
>> his dark beard and piercing brown eyes started towards the podium.  All 
>> the girls stood respectfully until the Rabbi reached his place.
>>
>> The audience turned their undivided attention to Rabbi Goldberg, but no 
>> one turned greater concentration to the speaker than Pessi.
>>
>> Today the theme of the lecture encompassed the difficult things 
>> confronted by people, and how individuals should perceive challenging 
>> situations.
>>
>> "If someone isn't well we perceive that as unfortunate.  It is terrible 
>> to see someone suffer with illness.  As Jewish people we're told to say 
>> Psalms with the hope they recover.  But what happens if they don't 
>> recover?  What happens if we said our Tehillim, and they pass away, 
>> Heaven forbid, anyway?  Should we think our prayers weren't answered? 
>> No."  The Rabbi looked straight at Pessi. "It has nothing to do with us. 
>> Let me try to bring it down to a more comprehensible level.
>>
>> "Let's say I bring to one of you high school girls a blueprint from the 
>> best architect in the country.  He has drawn plans for the biggest, best 
>> building this country has ever seen.  You're high school girls and, to 
>> the best of my knowledge, none of you ever studied architecture."
>>
>> The girls giggled and he continued.  "So, I go to your desk, put down the 
>> drawing and ask what you think of it.  What are you supposed to say?  You 
>> have no idea how to evaluate such diagrams."  The girls sat mesmerized by 
>> the Rabbi's words. "Why are the heating pipes over there?  Why are there 
>> no windows on that wall?  Considering the best architect in the country 
>> drew the plan wouldn't it make sense he knew what he was doing?  The 
>> architect knew how different forces worked together to make the building 
>> a viable one.  You see girls, you have no right interpreting the 
>> architect's drawing or expressing an opinion.  Only someone of equal 
>> stature to the architect has that right.  If one of his peers asks why 
>> the windows are where they are after studying the plan he knows what he's 
>> talking about, but you girls don't.  You don't understand airflow or 
>> different infrastructures such as plumbing, heating, and electric. 
>> You're in no position to judge the architect.
>>
>> "The Almighty is the architect of the world.  Only He knows if something 
>> is good or bad.  Because we aren't on His level we can't objectively 
>> judge what He does.  As with the blueprint, we can say the windows look 
>> better on the left rather than the right, but the architect knows about 
>> the airflow in the building, and how the other infrastructures will work 
>> together.  We don't know architecture or understand the blueprint of the 
>> world.  But as the customer trusts the architect, we trust the Almighty 
>> because only He knows what is best."
>>
>> Pessi understood the Rabbi's words, and turned closer attention to him 
>> with tears streaming down her face.  Chavy wondered about her reaction.
>>
>>  "We can say we're saying Tehillim for the sick and, Heaven forbid, they 
>> pass away.  Weren't our prayers good enough?  We know they were, but what 
>> the Almighty knows is good is not always what we think of as acceptable. 
>> In the end we don't even know how to judge good as it pertains to 
>> individual situations.  In short, girls, there are no answers, but we can 
>> just do what we have control over.  If someone is sick, and we say 
>> Tehillim it is right.  Why?  Because it certainly won't hurt, and has 
>> proven to be a great help in many situations.  Is it a guarantee? 
>> Certainly not.  There aren't any guarantees.  We have to place perfect 
>> faith in the Almighty because He's our Father in heaven, and well aware 
>> of the total plan for this world.  We know our Father in heaven doesn't 
>> intentionally hurt his children."
>>
>> Chavy saw the Rabbi speaking directly to a sobbing Pessi.  She wondered 
>> why the other kids couldn't see the sparks flying between the two.  Chavy 
>> didn't wonder why the Rabbi addressed Pessi.  Evidently he knew the 
>> family, and understood whatever haunted this girl.  If only Chavy knew 
>> the problem perhaps there would be something she could do.
>>
>> The Rabbi continued, "We know the Almighty wants us to do everything with 
>> joy because He wants us all to be happy as a father wants his children to 
>> be happy.  Every day we all ask for many different things from our Father 
>> in Heaven as we try our best to please Him as a child tries to please a 
>> father.  This is the reason our lives are spent learning Torah or the 
>> Five Books of Moses, and performing the Mitzvahs, religious obligations, 
>> commanded us in this precious gift He gave us.  Our responsibility is to 
>> show our Father we love Him as we carry out His commandments with our 
>> heartfelt joy.  Before I leave I want each of you to take your Tehillim 
>> book and say two Psalms for each of these people who aren't well. 
>> Hopefully, our prayers will be heard and these people will be granted a 
>> speedy and complete recovery."  He read three names using the Hebrew name 
>> of the person followed by the Hebrew name of their mother.  Pessi blinked 
>> back tears and opened the book.  A short while later the Rabbi said, 
>> "Good Shabbos, girls" indicating the end of the lecture.
>>
>> The girls headed for the lunchroom where a beautiful dessert buffet 
>> awaited them. At Chavy's side Pessi said, "I have a question for the 
>> Rabbi.  Be right back."
>>
>> Chavy found herself drawn to the dessert buffet, envying all the calories 
>> she didn't need.  She spotted fruit on the other table and reluctantly 
>> took a plate of the colorful, but less fattening food.
>>
>> Chavy's friend Shayna, a bubbly, short girl with dark curly hair came up 
>> to her holding a plate stacked with delectable goodies.  "Chavy, are you 
>> the party pooper?  How can you eat fruit with all this gorgeous stuff 
>> staring you in the face?"
>>
>> "Shayna, when most of your clothes don't fit, we can open a second-hand 
>> store.  Until then you can eat your calories and I'll try to like this 
>> stuff."
>>
>> Shayna laughed, and returned to other friends.
>>
>> Chavy glanced at Pessi talking to Rabbi Goldberg.  She must have had a 
>> simple question.  She spent only a minute with the Rabbi before heading 
>> back to Chavy.
>>
>> Pessi picked up a pastry.  "These pastries are great!"
>>
>> "You're so skinny you could probably eat the whole table and never show 
>> it.  I have weight to lose so I stick to fruit.  Have some, it's good."
>>
>> Pessi laughed, reaching for another pastry.  "Chavy, I have to go soon. 
>> My mother isn't well."
>>
>> "No problem.  I can eat only so much fruit."
>>
>> In one corner of the room Miriam and Ruthie stood with a few of their 
>> friends never taking their eyes off Pessi and Chavy.  Chavy saw them and 
>> could only imagine the venom they spewed.  She wanted to confront them, 
>> but turned her attention back to Pessi.
>>
>> When they finished eating Pessi and Chavy headed for the coat room.
>>
>> Pessi wondered if she was making the right move.  How come she decided to 
>> leave the school with Chavy today?  Was she proving that despite her 
>> strong resolve she needed someone?  Absolutely not!  She predicted that 
>> by Monday Chavy would be totally bored with her and both of them would 
>> return to their own corner of the world.  That would be all the proof she 
>> needed to demonstrate that she didn't need anyone else in her life.
>>
>> Pessi lived some distance from the school.  On the streets they traveled 
>> Chavy didn't see any of the sights she associated with Shabbos afternoon 
>> in her neighborhood.
>>
>> Pessi clung to her pride, still not completely sure about letting another 
>> girl into her life.  Pessi glanced at Chavy's beautiful gray wool coat 
>> with black velvet collar and cuffs.  She remembered how it felt to be 
>> wearing such a fine garment, but that was in the past.
>>
>> Chavy felt Pessi's discomfort.  She tried chatting about school 
>> activities, upcoming tests and the weather.  Pessi wanted to discuss 
>> classes and course work.
>>
>> Chavy envied the ease with which she discussed topics such as math and 
>> chemistry.  She still believed Trigonometry to be an obscure planet, but 
>> in her soft voice Pessi discussed it with the ease Chavy spoke of her 
>> favorite foods.
>>
>> Fifteen minutes later they reached Pessi's house.  Like others in the 
>> neighborhood the small, run-down structure appeared as if it had seen 
>> better days.  Chavy didn't care.  Over the years she had been friends 
>> with girls from the biggest and best homes and others from houses like 
>> this. She didn't choose her friends according to their zip codes.
>>
>> The two girls entered Pessi's dingy foyer.     Immediately a dark haired, 
>> round faced little boy ran to her. "Good Shabbos, Pessi!"
>>
>> Pessi picked up the child and kissed him. "Moshe, did you take care of 
>> Mommy?"
>>
>> The little boy's expression turned serious. "Mommy read me a book."
>>
>> "I'm sure she enjoyed that.  Let's go see her."
>>
>> On the sofa in the dining room lay Pessi's mother, a gaunt and obviously 
>> very ill woman.  Pessi gave her mother a kiss before stooping to pick up 
>> her blanket on the floor. She lovingly spread it over her.  "Good 
>> Shabbos, Mommy.  This is Chavy Levy from school.  Tatty said she could 
>> come home with me."
>>
>>  Seeing Pessi with a friend made Shayna Goldberg happier than she had 
>> been in months.  "It's a pleasure to meet you, Chavy.  How are you?"
>>
>> Chavy hoped her shock didn't show.  The Rabbi was Pessi's father?    She 
>> recovered her composure and answered, "I'm fine, Mrs. Goldberg.  It's so 
>> nice to meet you."
>>
>> "How did Tatty's lecture go, Pessi?"
>>
>> A bell rang in Chavy's mind.  Whatever was in the Rabbi's speech today 
>> had been planned to address an issue in his daughter's life.  Gazing at 
>> the emaciated woman on the couch wearing a pretty scarf on her head Chavy 
>> began to understand the message.
>>
>> Pessi's eyes darted from her mother to Chavy.  "Chavy didn't know my 
>> father is Rabbi Goldberg.  I never told anyone.  The lecture was one of 
>> the best he ever gave."
>>
>> "Why did you keep your father's identity a secret?"
>>
>> "I feel better being a private person."
>>
>> "Even though people know who your father is, you can still be a private 
>> person.  Could you please set out sudat shlishit before Tatty gets home?"
>>
>> Pessi chose to ignore her mother's latest prelude to a fight.  "Sure. 
>> I'll do it now."
>>
>> After arriving home Rabbi Goldberg greeted their guest before turning to 
>> his wife. "Shayna, can I help you to the table?"
>>
>> "I would like that, thank you."
>>
>> The Rabbi supported his wife the short distance from the sofa to the 
>> table.  He then said, "Everybody can go and wash."
>>
>> Moshe brought a bowl and cup of water for his mother to ritually wash her 
>> hands.  Mrs. Goldberg was too weak to wash at the sink with everyone 
>> else.
>>
>> In the tiny kitchen with doors falling off the cabinets Chavy asked 
>> Pessi, "Can you come to my house after Shabbos if I help you clean up? 
>> My father can pick us up."
>>
>> "I'll ask."  Back at the table the Rabbi said the blessing on the bread. 
>> They all took a bite from their roll and Pessi asked, "Tatty, Chavy wants 
>> to know if I can go to her house after Shabbos.  Can I?"
>>
>> Mrs. Goldberg immediately answered, "Go, dear.  It's good for you to get 
>> out." Rabbi Goldberg added, "You can go if you have a ride home."
>>
>> "I'll ask my father, but it shouldn't be a problem."
>>
>> "In that case I give my permission.  Have a good time."
>>
>> Two dark haired teenage boys with small beards entered the house.  Pessi 
>> said, "Those are my brothers."
>>
>> Chavy glanced at the boys who were headed for the kitchen to wash in 
>> preparation for their meal.
>>
>> Avi Goldberg heard his father say, "Chavy, your father and I are very 
>> close friends.  I know Rabbi Levy for many years.  How is he?"
>>
>> "He's doing well."
>>
>> "Please give him my regards."
>>
>> Avi stifled his laughter.  So his best friend Yigal Levy's sister was 
>> Pessi's new friend?  He already agreed with all the complaints about her. 
>> Why did Pessi pick up such a pain in the neck girl?
>>
>> After a brief talk by the Rabbi on the week's Torah reading Chavy quietly 
>> said to Pessi, "Why did you keep your father's identity a secret?"
>>
>> Pessi thought about the giant plunge she had taken, wondering if she 
>> should share anything more about her life.  Seeing the sincere expression 
>> in Chavy's eyes she decided to confide more.  "Goldberg is such a common 
>> name.  No one knew.  No one knows except you now.  I'm happy being 
>> anonymous."
>>
>> The two girls said the blessing after the meal before going into the 
>> dinette.
>>
>> Pessi started in a low voice.  "My mother has cancer.  She's getting 
>> chemo once a week, but her reports aren't good.  We moved to Jenna ten 
>> months ago to be closer to better hospitals.  My father used to have a 
>> big congregation and good job, but since moving here he hasn't been 
>> successful.  I wear weekday clothes on the Sabbath because my last 
>> Shabbos outfit doesn't fit.
>>
>> "I didn't want to get close to the girls at school.  They look at my 
>> disgusting hair, inappropriate clothes and don't want that either."
>>
>> Chavy listened to Pessi with sympathy.
>>
>> "I'm so nervous about my mother that all I do is go to school, keep up 
>> this house, help my mother and family, and pray.  My father gave the 
>> speech today for me.  I love my mother and can't face what's happening. 
>> I keep thinking if I do more for her she'll get better, but my father 
>> claims it's out of my hands."
>>
>> Chavy never met another sixteen-year- old confronting so many challenges. 
>> How did she do it?
>>
>> "You're the first girl I brought home from school since moving to Jenna. 
>> My parents always say they want me to have friends, but I'm ashamed of 
>> our situation.  I prefer being alone with my problems rather than being 
>> the object of pity or ridicule.  This issue has been a source of conflict 
>> between my mother and me."
>>
>> "Pessi, if you hung up a few curtains with some pictures this place 
>> wouldn't be half bad."
>>
>> "We can't afford curtains, and don't have any pictures.  We had paintings 
>> where we lived before, but Tatty sold them for Mommy's medical care.  The 
>> drapes in the old house were custom made so we left them."
>>
>> "My mother has a closet full of curtains.  Every time she sees a curtain 
>> sale she replaces ours.  Also, I have some clothes I got too fat for. 
>> I'll show them to you later.  Don't be ashamed.  None of us lives in a 
>> palace.
>>
>> "Also, there's Chesed at school.  As you know this group does community 
>> service.  They can come and help you out a few times a week.  I know the 
>> girl in charge of it. I'll discuss it with her tomorrow."
>>
>> "Don't talk to her, Chavy.  I'm ashamed.  My beautiful mother is so sick 
>> and looks terrible."
>>
>> "Don't be ashamed.  There's nothing wrong with you. When your mother 
>> recovers she'll look better."
>>
>> Pessi started crying, arousing Chavy's concern.  "Pessi, I didn't mean to 
>> upset you."
>>
>> "The doctors say now Mommy won't get any better.  They want to stop her 
>> therapy."
>>
>> Chavy put an arm around the shoulders of the sobbing girl.  From what 
>> little she understood about cancer, she knew that when a doctor said a 
>> person wouldn't get any better and stopped the treatment it didn't mean 
>> they expected good news.
>>
>> "We all know it's the end.  My mother is happy you came over today. 
>> She's been telling me for a long time I need to find friends.  I tried to 
>> ignore it because I have too much to do and don't want anyone to know how 
>> poor we are."
>>
>> "Don't worry about what the others think.  Tonight we're going to raid my 
>> mother's curtain closet.  Do you have any family pictures?"
>>
>> "Sure.  We used to take pictures all the time."
>>
>> "Great.  Tonight we're going hunting. Tomorrow after school we go to 
>> work."  They smiled at each other.  Pessi had a friend for the first time 
>> in years.
>>
>> Pessi had to admit having a confidant to support her through this crisis 
>> felt good.  Her parents had been right.  In spite of her strong resolve 
>> Pessi did need others to help her through this difficult time.
>>
>> Chavy called her father after they were done cleaning up.  He agreed to 
>> pick them up and bring Pessi back later.
>>
>> Chavy went to Mrs. Goldberg on her sofa.  "Thank you for a wonderful 
>> Shabbos, Mrs. Goldberg."
>>
>> "The pleasure is all ours, Chavy.  It's wonderful to see Pessi with a 
>> girl her age.  My little one, Suri, is at a friend's now, but Pessi stays 
>> home to do everything I should be doing around here.  I couldn't manage 
>> without her."
>>
>> "Mommy!  I told you I help you because I love you.  Don't make it sound 
>> like I'm something exceptional when I'm just doing what I want."
>>
>> Pessi turned and led the way to the foyer where they waited for Rabbi 
>> Levy.
>>
>> Back at Chavy's Yigal stood in the kitchen with a dishtowel over his arm 
>> glaring at his sister.  "I'll get you for this, Chavy Levy!  This is 
>> cruel and unusual punishment! Mommy felt that since my mouth caused you 
>> to not come right home I deserved this horrible fate.  Our dear sister 
>> Chumy insisted I dry.  It should be illegal to have little sisters!"
>>
>> "Yigal, when you find yourself a good wife I'll help you pack your bags."
>>
>> Pessi joined the laughter unable to remember the last time she laughed 
>> from genuine happiness.
>>
>> Yigal turned to Chavy's friend.  "Is Avi Goldberg your brother?"
>>
>> Surprised, Pessi answered, "Yes.  Do you know him?"
>>
>> "Sure.  We go to Yeshiva together.  I tell him about my pain in the neck 
>> sister, but he insists his sister is a doll.  Can you teach my sister to 
>> be a doll?"
>>
>> "My brothers look at me as a doll because we treat each other with 
>> respect.  Respect works two ways."
>>
>> "Yigal, after you learn from the Goldberg boys how to treat a good sister 
>> perhaps Pessi can teach me a few things.  Until then, cut the 
>> complaining."
>>
>> Chumy said, "Back to work, Yigal.  Only a few dishes to go."  After 
>> giving Chavy another dirty look Yigal returned to the kitchen.
>>
>> Mrs. Levy, a tall lady with short light brown hair whose daughter Chavy 
>> bore her winning smile came to greet Pessi.  Chavy asked, "Mommy, you 
>> know all those curtains you have hanging in the closet?"
>>
>> "Yes, dear.  Why?"
>>
>> "Can we go through them to choose some for Pessi's house?"
>>
>> "Sure.  I'm sure Mrs. Goldberg will enjoy them."
>>
>> Bassie Levy visited Shayna Goldberg every week since the family moved to 
>> Jenna and they became good friends, but Bassie knew the extent of her 
>> illness.  Last week she confided they were stopping treatment.  Everyone 
>> knew what that meant.
>>
>> Downstairs the girls started going through the closet.  In time they came 
>> back with curtains and a few paintings.  Mrs. Levy approved everything 
>> before the two headed up to Chavy's room.
>>
>> Chavy smiled at Pessi.  "You're a very pretty girl.  All you need is a 
>> good haircut.  I cut Chumy's and some of my friends' hair all the time. 
>> I enjoy doing it and they always come out of my bathroom looking great. 
>> Can I do yours?"
>>
>> "If it's not too much trouble I'd love it.  I can't remember the last 
>> time I had a good haircut."
>>
>> In the upstairs bathroom Chavy shampooed Pessi's thick, luxurious black 
>> hair.  She took her scissors and began working her magic.  Once done she 
>> stood behind Pessi admiring the image in the mirror.  "Pessi, you have 
>> the darkest, thickest hair I ever saw.  You'll be the envy of every girl 
>> in the school."
>>
>> "When my hair is properly cut it's my best feature."
>>
>> "It isn't your best feature.  Those beautiful blue eyes with your dark 
>> hair are an unbeatable match."
>>
>> Pessi again admired her reflection.  "This feels great!  I don't know how 
>> to thank you."
>>
>> "Forget the thanks.  This is my pleasure."
>>
>> In the bedroom Chavy took two outfits which no longer fit from her 
>> closet. "Here are two good Shabbos outfits.  If they fit they're yours. 
>> Here's a pair of black shoes I outgrew.  They're in perfect condition. 
>> Want to try them on?"
>>
>> Pessi gazed at the lovely clothing.  Her jaw settled into the same 
>> stubborn line Chavy witnessed earlier. Pessi thought about her policy of 
>> never accepting charity.  "I feel strange accepting these beautiful 
>> things.  I never took charity before."
>>
>> "This isn't charity.  Keeping these clothes in the closet hurts me every 
>> time I open the door to get my uniform.  I don't want to keep pushing the 
>> hangers that represent the way I used to be."
>>
>> Pessi took a long while to make up her mind.  How much could she change 
>> in one day?  Chavy thought she would just leave the clothes on the bed.
>>
>> Eventually Pessi took off her sweater and pulled on the top to a black 
>> and white outfit that matched the pretty black pumps.  The shoes fit 
>> perfectly.  Seeing her reflection in the mirror she couldn't believe the 
>> difference.  She hadn't looked this good in ages.  She tried on the other 
>> gray and pink wool outfit which also transformed her into a fashionable 
>> young lady.
>>
>> Chavy sighed.  "I wish I could be as skinny as you."
>>
>> "Don't be silly, Chavy.  You look fine the way you are!"
>>
>> "That's very nice of you, but I can read a scale.  For now all I can do 
>> is find good friends to take my beautiful clothes off my hands."
>>
>> Pessi sat on one of the beds observing Chavy's attractive room with white 
>> walls and pretty blue plush carpet.  Pictures of Chavy and Chumy growing 
>> up hung around the room.  She turned back to Chavy.  "At first I believed 
>> that by Monday morning you would have gotten sick of me and my problems, 
>> and we would have both crept back into our own lives.  But I was wrong. 
>> I know you aren't turned off at our run-down house or my beautiful mother 
>> who looks awful now.  I knew from the beginning you didn't take a look at 
>> my inappropriate clothes and figure they told my whole story.
>>
>> "I'm familiar with most of the girls.  Tatty learns the holy books with 
>> many of their fathers. A lot of their mothers visit mine.
>>
>> "If I didn't have to go straight home after school, I might be willing to 
>> make friends with the girls.  My mother has been trying to get me to do 
>> that.  We argue about it constantly. I have the right to run my own life, 
>> but she feels that I'm too much of a loner.   I love her, but this is one 
>> topic we'll never agree on.  I'm just more comfortable being a hermit."
>>
>> "Are you really comfortable like that?"
>>
>> "I don't know right now.  Let's see how it goes.  I can be social with 
>> the other girls at school, but our relationships will end at the school 
>> door."
>>
>> Chavy ignored her last statement.  "I want Chesed to help you out.  You 
>> need and deserve it.  I'll just say one of your parents isn't well so the 
>> responsibility for everything is on your shoulders."
>>
>> "In spite of our poverty, I'm a proud person and never took such generous 
>> charity."
>>
>> "It's not charity.  Chesed girls go out to help people all week long. 
>> When getting help from our community service group no one has to divulge 
>> any private information about themselves.  They say they need the help 
>> for one reason or another and we send them girls."
>>
>> Pessi remained quiet for a long time.  Chavy started to think she was 
>> going to refuse her suggestion.
>>
>> "I could use the help.  Thank you."  For the first time in five years 
>> Pessi admitted needing anyone.  It shocked her to realize this big step 
>> felt mighty good.
>>
>> "Tomorrow in school I'll try to be more a part of the class.  I'll say my 
>> Tehillim, but will also try to talk to the other girls."
>>
>> "For the fall holidays we attended your father's Synagogue.  My mother 
>> mentioned our fathers were classmates in Yeshiva.  Did you know that?"
>>
>> "I know that our fathers know each other, but he never told me their 
>> relationship dated back to their days in school."
>>
>> Mrs. Levy knocked on the door.  "Girls, it's late.  Tatty can take Pessi 
>> home now."
>>
>> "Let's go, Pessi."  Chavy helped Pessi take everything out to the car.
>>
>> At home Pessi's mother lay on her couch and her father was studying the 
>> Holy books in his office.  When she entered the room Mrs. Goldberg stared 
>> at her in surprise.  "Pessi, you're beautiful! You haven't looked this 
>> good in years.  Who cut your hair?"
>>
>> "Chavy.  She cuts her sister Chumy's hair all the time.  What do you 
>> think?" She turned around to give her mother the full effect.
>>
>> "I love it.  You must keep it up.  You have such beautiful hair."
>>
>> Her mother's eyes fell on the bags she carried.  "What do you have 
>> there?"
>>
>> "Mrs. Levy buys curtains every time she sees a sale so has lots of them 
>> in the basement.  She gave me some to try to make this place look better. 
>> Chavy also gave me a few paintings to spruce it up."
>>
>> Shayna sighed.  She hadn't done anything for her home in a long time. 
>> "I'll get Avi and Yitzy to hang up rods and picture hooks tomorrow.  What 
>> else do you have?"
>>
>> "Chavy gained some weight so doesn't fit into a few of her outfits. 
>> There's also a pair of shoes she outgrew.  I think they're real nice. 
>> Look."
>>
>> Mrs. Goldberg admired the clothes and shoes. "They're all beautiful, 
>> Pessi.  You'll look gorgeous.  Wear everything well, dear."  Pessi kissed 
>> her mother good night and headed for her room.  Mrs. Goldberg stifled her 
>> smile until her daughter climbed the stairs.  Would Pessi use her 
>> friendship with Chavy to become involved with other girls?  Could Pessi 
>> finally realize that she was indeed a beautiful, intelligent and fun 
>> girl? She knew Pessi had withdrawn from the world of other girls because 
>> of their poverty and her illness.  She would take her guilt to her grave.
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> CHAPTER THREE
>>
>>
>>
>> Sunday morning Dr. Green, sporting his wire rimmed glasses and a pleasant 
>> smile began his rounds with Jennifer.  "Hello, Jennifer.  How do you 
>> feel?"
>>
>> "A bit weak and sore."
>>
>> "I want to walk with you to the nurse's station.  Are you up for it?"
>>
>> "I'll try."
>>
>> The doctor disconnected the oxygen after reading the monitor.  "We'll 
>> dispense with the oxygen today."
>>
>> Jennifer reached for the robe Sheila's husband Ted brought her the 
>> previous night.  Sliding carefully off the bed she felt an unfamiliar 
>> stiffness in her knee, but remembered she had suffered a now bandaged 
>> wound in the accident.  Ignoring the discomfort she started slowly 
>> towards the nurse's station.  By the time she got there traveling had 
>> become easier.
>>
>> "You're looking good, Jennifer.  I want to run a few tests tomorrow.  I'm 
>> not restricting your diet.   I anticipate you feeling better soon."
>>
>> Jennifer slowly returned to bed.  A few minutes later a nurse entered the 
>> room to help her take a shower.  The warm water felt so good.  After the 
>> shower she slipped into her nightgown before glancing into the bathroom 
>> mirror.  Yikes!  She looked horrible!  She couldn't go back to school 
>> like this.  She wouldn't give her classmates more humor on her behalf.
>>
>> When she returned to bed the phone rang.
>>
>> "Hi, Jennifer.  It's Randy."
>>
>> "Good morning, Randy.  I just took a shower, and looked at myself in the 
>> mirror.  Why didn't you tell me I look like Frankenstein's twin sister?"
>>
>> Randy laughed.  "Jennifer, you were in an accident.  In a few days you'll 
>> be your gorgeous self.  I'm about to leave for the hospital.  Can I bring 
>> you anything?"
>>
>> "No thanks, Randy.  See you soon."
>>
>>
>>
>> Pessi arrived at her all girls' school that morning to the sound of the 
>> ringing late bell.  The girls immediately noticed the stark contrast 
>> between last week's ragamuffin, and the girl who entered the classroom. 
>> With head held high, Pessi smiled at Chavy.
>>
>> The day started as usual with the Morning Prayer service.  Afterwards 
>> Mrs. Rosenstein stood in front of the class smiling broadly wearing a 
>> green tailored suit over her ample figure.  She announced that Hanukkah 
>> was coming.  "Girls, this year the eleventh grade classes have been given 
>> the assignment of hosting a party for the entire high school.  This class 
>> has charge of food.  The other eleventh grade is in charge of donations, 
>> entertainment, and games.  I'm giving out the jobs.    Who wants to 
>> volunteer to set up?"  She took down the names of the volunteers and 
>> continued, "The school cook will prepare the traditional Hanukkah potato 
>> latkes, pancakes, but I need girls to make cakes, cookies, and arrange 
>> fruit platters."
>>
>> To the shock of the girls Pessi raised her hand first.  She said to the 
>> dark haired woman, "Mrs. Rosenstein, I can make a frosted cake."
>>
>> Pessi never did anything with them.  What happened between last week and 
>> today that made such changes in this loner?
>>
>> Pessi couldn't believe her actions either.  Why did she volunteer so 
>> readily?  What would happen if the cake flopped?  She knew how to bake a 
>> cake, but what would happen if the girls hated it?  She hoped her 
>> mistrust in herself didn't show in her expression.
>>
>> Chavy was the next to raise her hand.  "I'm selfishly volunteering to 
>> prepare a fruit platter so I have something to eat.  I'll also bring a 
>> few bottles of diet soda."
>>
>> Amidst the laughter Mrs. Rosenstein replied, "Thank you, Chavy.  I'm sure 
>> your efforts will be appreciated by more girls than you."
>>
>> When the recess bell rang they pulled snacks from their backpacks before 
>> wandering into the hall.  After saying her Psalms Pessi sought out Chavy. 
>> She found her speaking to Shayna.  "Good morning, Chavy.  Thanks for 
>> everything yesterday."
>>
>> Chavy flashed a broad grin.  "No problem, Pessi.  I'm sure you know 
>> Shayna."
>>
>> "Pessi, your haircut is phenomenal!  Who cut it?"
>>
>> Pessi felt herself blush and Chavy answered, "Her hairdresser has golden 
>> hands.  I love it!"
>>
>> Chavy needed to see Toby from Chesed to set up the help for Pessi.  She 
>> found the tall girl with classmates.  "Good morning, Toby.  I have to 
>> speak to you about Chesed.  Let's grab a private corner."
>>
>> In an empty classroom Chavy began, "A serious situation has come up. 
>> There's a girl in our school who's poverty stricken with a mother dying 
>> from cancer.  Their house is a rundown converted summer home, and all the 
>> work has fallen on her shoulders.  The problem is this isn't a project 
>> for everyone.  She'll only accept Chesed if the situation is held in 
>> confidence.  For this reason I want to restrict it to the two of us.  The 
>> girl is Pessi Goldberg.  Rabbi Goldberg is her father, but that's also a 
>> secret.  She doesn't want anyone pretending to like her because her 
>> father is well-known.  I want to go there four days a week starting 
>> tomorrow. Are you in?"
>>
>> Toby nodded, her dark ponytail flying.  What an awful story!  According 
>> to the guidelines of Chesed no one got help from the community service 
>> group more than once a week.  Obviously this was a special situation. 
>> "If it wasn't serious you wouldn't be telling me this, and insisting on 
>> Chesed four days a week.  I'm in.  We'll take the bus with Pessi 
>> tomorrow. By the way, I saw her today.   She's stunning!  Who did her 
>> hair?"
>>
>> "Her hairdresser has golden hands.  Thanks a lot, Toby.  See you later." 
>> Chavy started happily down the hall toward her next class excited things 
>> were working out for Pessi.
>>
>> When her good looking sons came from Yeshiva at lunchtime Mrs. Goldberg 
>> told them she wanted the curtain rods in the basement hung up.  The boys 
>> did this wondering what would hang on these things.  They never thought 
>> the pile of cloth on the table could be anything but cleaning rags.
>>
>> Their mother coordinated the first decorating job in years from her sofa 
>> by beginning, "I want those sheer curtains with white embroidery hung up 
>> in this room.  Take the floral print ones to the kitchen and dinette. 
>> The pink curtains will fit perfectly in the girls' room.  You can put the 
>> blue ones in your room. The striped curtains will match my room and 
>> Tatty's office.  On the table are picture hooks.  Please hang this 
>> picture of a library over the couch, and the one of a flower garden on 
>> the wall common with the staircase."
>>
>> She glanced around the small room noting the big difference these lovely 
>> things made.  This room almost looked nice!  Shayna remembered how lavish 
>> the house they had to leave had been.  This place would never mirror that 
>> one, but at least now it had an air of elegance.
>>
>> Yitzie and Avi remembered their mother in better days.  They recalled her 
>> visiting the sick the way ladies visited her now.  When she attended 
>> social events with their father she had to be the most beautiful woman in 
>> the world.  They fondly remembered her helping them with their homework, 
>> and giving them an encouraging hug and kiss when things got rough.  Now 
>> they knew what was happening and dreaded it, but today she was involved 
>> with something that put smiles on their faces.  Could this small event be 
>> the start of better days?
>>
>> When the Rabbi entered the house after the boys left for school he saw 
>> the curtains and newly hung pictures.  "It looks so nice, Shayna.  Who 
>> directed this whole thing?"
>>
>> "I did, dear.  It's nice to know I haven't lost my touch."  The Rabbi was 
>> thrilled to see her beautiful smile again.
>>
>> After being driven home by Rabbi Levy, Pessi's shock was visible as her 
>> eyes scanned the dining room and dinette.  This place almost felt normal! 
>> "It looks so nice, Mommy.  Did you tell the boys where to put 
>> everything?"
>>
>> "Yes, dear.  It's not the old house, but I think it looks better than I 
>> ever remember."
>>
>> "I agree.  Even the walls don't seem so drab.  You did an outstanding 
>> job."  She ran up the stairs before her mother could ask her questions 
>> about the girls at school.
>>
>> That afternoon Chavy stopped at a variety store in the neighborhood to 
>> pick up a picture frame with a mat cut to accommodate lots of 
>> photographs. This would be perfect for Pessi's family pictures.
>>
>>
>>
>> Jennifer went through the medical tests on Monday morning.  Monday 
>> afternoon Dr. Green appeared at her door again.  "Hi, Jennifer.  How's 
>> everything?"
>>
>> "I'm feeling much better.  How did the tests turn out?"
>>
>> Dr. Green took the chair beside her bed.  "The test results were good. 
>> They showed you have a slight problem with your heart.  This is not a big 
>> deal.  I'm giving you medication you'll take once a day.  I want to see 
>> you back here in a month when we'll repeat the test."
>>
>> "What's wrong with my heart?"
>>
>> "There seems to be some irregularity with your heartbeat.  I've read your 
>> medical records from your family doctor, and you never had this problem 
>> before.
>>
>> I just want to make sure it isn't cause for future concern."
>>
>> "I'm a cheerleader.  Can I still do that?"
>>
>> "I would prefer if you hold off until after your next appointment."
>>
>> "Our last football game is Saturday.  Can I stand on the sidelines 
>> screaming cheers?"
>>
>> Dr. Green smiled.  "Let me think about it.  Hopefully you can go home on 
>> Wednesday."
>>
>> "Thank you, doctor."
>>
>> Before the doctor left the room Jennifer reached for one of the books on 
>> her table.  "Are you reading that play for school?"
>>
>> "No.  This is my own reading."
>>
>> "You like Shakespeare?"
>>
>> "Sure.  He's exciting."
>>
>> The doctor nodded.  His thoughts about Jennifer not suffering brain 
>> damage from the accident were almost confirmed.  "Enjoy your reading, 
>> Jennifer."
>>
>>
>>
>> After school on Monday Chavy and Toby took the bus with Pessi.  Pessi 
>> never took this bus before.  She always ran home thinking it would take 
>> too long with all the stops the bus had to make.
>>
>> Toby was pleasantly surprised to find Pessi a fun girl.  She talked with 
>> them about current events, different classes, and the upcoming Hanukkah 
>> party.
>>
>> Outside the Goldberg house Pessi started apologizing for the rundown 
>> dwelling.  Toby smiled.  "Don't be ridiculous, Pessi.  None of us lives 
>> in a palace."
>>
>> Inside Chavy immediately headed for Mrs. Goldberg's sofa.  "Hi, Mrs. 
>> Goldberg.  It's so nice to see you again."
>>
>> "It's good to see you also.  Pessi's hair is gorgeous.  Thank you."
>>
>> Toby didn't know about Chavy's hairdressing skills.  She sure was good!
>>
>> Chavy continued, "Mrs. Goldberg, this is my friend Toby Teitelbaum. 
>> She's going to be coming here with me to help Pessi."
>>
>> Mrs. Goldberg's smile could have lit up the house.  "It's a pleasure to 
>> meet you, Toby.  Your mother is one of the special ladies who visit me 
>> every week.  I feel terrible that the responsibility for everything has 
>> fallen on Pessi's shoulders.  She needs more time to be a teenager. 
>> Thank you so much for helping."
>>
>> Pessi blushed.  Why did her mother insist on embarrassing her?  "Mommy, 
>> stop making me sound like something I'm not.  Everything I'm doing I do 
>> because I love you.  Stop feeling guilty!"
>>
>> Chavy was shocked at Pessi's outburst. She took charge, handed Pessi the 
>> picture frame, and told her to fit family photographs into it.  Pessi 
>> thanked her.  She gazed at the frame trying to imagine it with their old 
>> family pictures from better times placed in the mat.  She would begin 
>> working on it later.  Perhaps her mother would enjoy creating the 
>> collage.
>>
>> Chavy announced, "I'll do the kitchen with Pessi.  Toby, can you vacuum 
>> the rugs in the dining room and bedrooms?"
>>
>> "No problem."
>>
>> Alone with Pessi Chavy said, "I figure I can clean while you make dinner. 
>> How about it?"
>>
>> "I just want to throw a load in the washer.  Be right up."
>>
>> By the time Rabbi Levy beeped his horn the Goldberg house was starting to 
>> shine.
>>
>> After they dropped Toby off Chavy said, "Tatty, I have to pick something 
>> up for school in the grocery store.  Can we stop there?"
>>
>> The Rabbi nodded.  Chavy ran into the store and returned a few minutes 
>> later carrying a small bag.
>>
>> Seeing the tiny parcel her father asked, "What did you have to get?"
>>
>> "I noticed the silver in the Goldberg china cabinet is tarnished so I 
>> bought polish to spruce it up.  Toby and I are going there Mondays 
>> through Thursday.  This should take some of the pressure off Pessi."
>>
>>
>>
>> Jennifer's CAT scan Tuesday morning revealed there was indeed no brain 
>> damage.  The doctor reiterated he wanted her to remain in the hospital 
>> until the following morning for observation.  Sheila was busy with the 
>> kids, Randy had school, her roommate Cindy called a few times, and none 
>> of her classmates were going to go out of their way to go to the 
>> hospital. So Jennifer was alone with Shakespeare, text books, and 
>> thoughts.  She knew if her mother allowed her to stay she would be dead. 
>> But besides Sheila and Randy, who would care?  Jennifer knew she would be 
>> happier in a place where she didn't have to worry about love, bigoted 
>> remarks and loneliness. Yes, being dead would be a lot better than the 
>> life she had to live.  She reached for Shakespeare again.
>>
>> She could hardly wait to get home and back to her sewing machine.  But 
>> she derived enjoyment from her craft, not happiness.
>>
>>
>>
>> Before dinner Pessi approached her mother.  "Mommy, I volunteered to bake 
>> a cake for the school Hanukkah party.  Is that all right?"
>>
>> "I'm thrilled you're taking part in the party.  Before you start bring me 
>> my cook books so we can pick out a delicious recipe."
>>
>> "Do you want a tray here or should I help you to the table?"
>>
>> "I'm not hungry now. Perhaps later I'll eat something.  Now go and enjoy 
>> your dinner."
>>
>> Pessi knew that "later" would never come.  This was a nice way of 
>> refusing to eat for the second day in a row.  Each morning Pessi put out 
>> a breakfast tray for her mother, but when she got home she found most of 
>> the food in the garbage.  Her father served her lunch, but often admitted 
>> very little was gone from the lunch tray also.  With her serious illness 
>> could she survive by eating nothing?  Pessi turned her attention back to 
>> serving dinner, but these worries lingered.
>>
>> The next morning Pessi came in to the sound of the ringing late bell as 
>> usual.  This uncommon entrance was still a mystery to her classmates. 
>> For whatever reason her new friendship with Chavy Levy validated her 
>> strange behavior.  The girls assumed Chavy knew the reasons, but had been 
>> asked not to tell anyone.
>>
>> Every morning Pessi showered and dressed before preparing breakfast for 
>> the younger kids.  That done, she hurried to her mother's room, assisted 
>> her in getting out of bed, washed, dressed and ready for the day.  She 
>> served her coffee and breakfast.  After this routine she quickly ate her 
>> own breakfast and ran to school as soon as her father returned from 
>> morning services.
>>
>> The community made arrangements for at least two ladies to visit Mrs. 
>> Goldberg each day.  Bassie Levy's visiting partner was busy on this 
>> Tuesday so she stopped at the bakery to pick up some pastries and juice 
>> before going to visit her friend.   Upon entering the house she 
>> immediately saw the improvements in the room.  "Shayna, this place is 
>> looking so nice."
>>
>> "Thank you, Bassie.  I appreciate you giving the curtains and pictures to 
>> Pessi."
>>
>> "My pleasure.  How do you feel?"
>>
>> "My husband just increased my pain medication.  It's getting more 
>> difficult to cope with, but a big part of the pain is gone.  Bassie, have 
>> you any idea how much of a difference your daughter has made in our 
>> lives?"
>>
>> Bassie felt herself blush.  "I just know Chavy is very impressed with 
>> Pessi and your family.  I know she comes here every afternoon, but after 
>> dinner she's on the phone with your daughter while doing her homework. 
>> Shayna, your daughter is an absolute beauty.  When I saw her after the 
>> haircut the other night I could see instantly that she's a duplicate of 
>> her mother.  With Pessi as her friend my daughter seems happier, does her 
>> homework more willingly leaving her less time to harass her brother. 
>> Shayna, I should be the one thanking you."  The two ladies laughed, and 
>> Bassie carried in the tray with Shayna's snack.
>>
>> The gaunt woman with the sunken cheeks and sallow complexion smiled at 
>> her friend.  The only things about Shayna Bassie recognized from before 
>> were her winning smile and pretty, albeit frail, voice.  "Thank you, 
>> Bassie. This looks so good."
>>
>> "Then don't spend time admiring it, but start eating it."
>>
>> "I'm not hungry right now.  Perhaps later I'll have a better appetite." 
>> Both of them understood this answer to be nothing more than a polite 
>> excuse.
>>
>> "Shayna, I feel so bad.  I mentioned my daughter a lot over the past few 
>> months when there were other ladies here, but you never mentioned Pessi. 
>> Why didn't you talk about your daughter?"
>>
>> "Pessi felt self conscious about our poverty and my illness. She figured 
>> if anyone knew about her family they would befriend her out of pity, and 
>> not for herself.  My daughter didn't want anyone knowing who her father 
>> is.  She didn't need anyone pretending to like her because she has a 
>> well-known father.  With Chavy's friendship and help my daughter is 
>> happier than I've seen her in ages."
>>
>> The billowing silence hung heavily over the room before Shayna continued. 
>> "All of us know what the doctor meant when he decided to end my 
>> treatments.  I know I won't be here to see my daughter graduate, but 
>> seeing her these past few days has made me feel like I have more energy, 
>> and a greater ability to smile.  Ever since I got sick Pessi has 
>> withdrawn from the world of other girls, and devoted herself exclusively 
>> to me and the family.  Bassie, if I have to leave this world tomorrow at 
>> least I'll go knowing my daughter has a bright future in front of her."
>>
>> She reached for a tissue trying to hide the tears, but Bassie's tears ran 
>> down her cheeks.
>>
>> Bassie put her arm around Shayna's shoulders.  "Shayna, we can never give 
>> up.  Pessi is doing well, but we can't stop concentrating on making you 
>> better.  All of us are praying for your recovery every chance we get." 
>> Shayna started nibbling on a pastry.***
>>
>> Bassie stayed a few minutes longer before kissing Shayna good by.  She 
>> hoped and prayed her friend would recover, but had an awful feeling that 
>> she wouldn't.
>>
>> Miriam and Ruthie noticed Chavy and Toby taking the bus with Pessi for 
>> the second day in a row.  Miriam had to give her conjecture as to why the 
>> most popular girl in the school, and the head of Chesed were doing this. 
>> "Ruthie, the only reason I can come up with is that Pessi lives in a real 
>> dump so Toby and Chavy are going there to make it more livable.  The 
>> problem is it's against school rules to have Chesed go to the same house 
>> more than once a week.  Is her family using Chesed as cleaning ladies?"
>>
>> They boarded their bus convinced Pessi's family was using Chesed in a way 
>> that was against the rules.
>>
>> When Chavy and Toby arrived at the Goldbergs after school Chavy glanced 
>> at the china cabinet with the tarnished silver.  "Toby, want to wash what 
>> I polish?"
>>
>> "Sure."
>>
>> Watching from her sofa Mrs. Goldberg smiled thinking that her house could 
>> once again look decent.  She couldn't believe what these girls were doing 
>> for her daughter and family.  Once done with the silver they washed all 
>> the decorative pieces that adorned the cabinet.  Chavy and Toby stepped 
>> back to admire their work.
>>
>> When Pessi came up carrying the last load of laundry she heard her mother 
>> say, "That china closet looks fantastic!  I almost forgot how nice our 
>> things could look."
>>
>> Pessi saw the pretty cabinet with the newly cleaned and polished items. 
>> "Thank you so much.  You did a fabulous job.  For once I'm caught up with 
>> laundry before Friday."
>>
>> The completed Goldberg family composite Pessi and her mother put together 
>> the previous night caught Chavy's eye.  "That family collage is 
>> wonderful. Those pictures of you as a little kid are adorable."
>>
>> "Thanks, Chavy.  My mother loves it.  It brings back beautiful memories." 
>> Pessi noticed a picture of her mother years ago with her two older 
>> brothers.  The elegant woman, so straight and tall with a face that 
>> looked like Pessi's, didn't begin to resemble the woman she now called 
>> Mommy. The memories were great, but also sad.  It hurt to realize this 
>> woman had disappeared.
>>
>>
>>
>> Dr. Green discharged Jennifer on Wednesday morning.  "Don't forget to 
>> make an appointment in a month.  Also, if you start feeling anything out 
>> of the ordinary I want to be called immediately.  I mean that, Jennifer, 
>> immediately.   For now go home, relax, and don't go back to school until 
>> Monday at the earliest.  I remember you mentioning the football game. You 
>> can go if you stand on the sidelines.  No gymnastics, dancing or anything 
>> else that is strenuous.  I'll see you next month."  Jennifer happily left 
>> the hospital with Sheila.
>>
>> On Friday the older girls didn't have school because they went on Sunday. 
>> Mrs. Goldberg told Pessi, "If I sit in a chair I can peel the potatoes. 
>> If you give me the soup vegetables I can make the soup so all you have to 
>> do is fill the pot with water.  Let me sit with a garbage can, peeler, 
>> knife, and you do the cooking."
>>
>> "Mommy, I don't want you using the strength."
>>
>> "Its no big deal, but very odd.  They gave up my chemo because they 
>> claimed there's no hope for me, but I'm starting to feel stronger. 
>> Whatever the case, as long as I have the energy I'll use it.  Now help me 
>> to the kitchen chair."  Pessi brought her mother to the dinette, and Mrs. 
>> Goldberg prepared all the vegetables for Shabbos.  It amazed Pessi when 
>> she finished her work in half the time.
>>
>> "Thank you, Mommy.  It took less time than usual."
>>
>> The next morning Pessi dressed in one of the outfits and shoes from 
>> Chavy. She wished her mother good Shabbos before leaving for her father's 
>> synagogue.  It felt so good to get dressed in normal, beautiful clothes. 
>> A part of her also wanted to see the expressions on Ruthie's and Miriam's 
>> faces when she entered the Shul.
>>
>> Pessi realized that for the first time in months her mother didn't badger 
>> her with complaints about her reclusive lifestyle.  Yes, she had come out 
>> of her self constructed closet and into the world of the living.  What 
>> her mother didn't know, and Pessi didn't want to tell her, is that the 
>> only two girls she had a relationship with were Chavy and Toby.  She felt 
>> comfortable with that.  At the synagogue she took a seat in the women's 
>> section, and opened her prayer book.  When the services ended she 
>> prepared to leave.  In the coatroom Ruthie and Miriam stared at her.  She 
>> smiled at the two of them before going out into the cold, crisp November 
>> air.
>>
>> The yentas followed her out.  Miriam observed, "I can't believe it! 
>> Someone must have taken her in, and bought her new clothes.  With her new 
>> haircut, and those clothes, perhaps someone is showing our reject what it 
>> means to look like a normal person.  Why does she wear those ugly shoes 
>> to school when she has those stylish ones in the closet?  I guess you can 
>> take the reject away from the garbage, but can't take all the garbage 
>> away from the reject.  Her coat should be declared illegal!" They laughed 
>> at Miriam's petty remarks, but this week Pessi didn't linger close enough 
>> to hear their reaction.  She knew she looked terrific.  Even the nasty 
>> remarks of the yentas couldn't dampen her spirits.
>>
>> At home she greeted her mother before going upstairs to change out of her 
>> good clothes.  She would put them on later if she decided to go out. 
>> What a difference compared to last week! The girl who spent last Shabbos 
>> morning putting up her defenses against the world today came in singing. 
>> She went in the kitchen to prepare the salad.  It shocked her to see a 
>> completed one on the counter!  "Mommy!  When did you do this?"
>>
>> "Suri helped me to the table, and brought me everything.  Now all you 
>> have to do is set the table."
>>
>> Pessi kissed her mother before getting the silverware.
>>
>> After the meal Pessi asked permission to go to Chavy's house.  Her father 
>> quickly answered, "Go ahead, Pessi.  Your brothers and I will take care 
>> of Sudat shlishit.  Have a good time."
>>
>> Pessi dressed in the same outfit and black shoes she wore that morning, 
>> spending extra time doing her luxurious black hair.  She looked good 
>> despite the ragged coat she would be putting on in a few minutes.  In the 
>> dining room her mother remarked, "You look marvelous, dear.  Have a good 
>> time."
>>
>> Pessi made her way leisurely under the brilliant November sun.  It had 
>> been ages since she went out on a Shabbos or any other day just to have 
>> fun.
>>
>> Ambling down Chavy's block she spotted a little girl with tightly wound 
>> red curls standing on her front porch watching the world go by.  As Pessi 
>> neared Chavy's house the child ran up to her asking, "Do you know Chavy 
>> Levy?"
>>
>> A surprised Pessi answered, "Yes, I do.  Why?"
>>
>> In a serious voice Chaya Kravitz started, "She's the meanest girl in the 
>> world.  I don't think nice people should be her friends."
>>
>> "Chavy is a nice person, and my friend.  I think little girls should find 
>> something better to do with their time than gossip about older girls. 
>> Good Shabbos."
>>
>> When Pessi knocked on the Levy door Chumy answered.  "Good Shabbos, 
>> Pessi. Come on in."
>>
>> Chumy called her sister at the same time Yigal passed them on his way 
>> out. "Pessi, just teach my sister to be a doll like you!  There's only so 
>> much a guy can be expected to take!"  Pessi blushed, and Yigal left the 
>> house.
>>
>> Chavy greeted her friend.  "You're just in time.  I'm picking up Shayna. 
>> We were going to pick you up for B'nos, but you beat us to it.  Want to 
>> go?"
>>
>> "Sure.  Who's speaking?"
>>
>> "Mrs. Newman.  They're also serving a delicious dessert buffet after. 
>> This is where all my weight comes in.  You're so skinny it doesn't matter 
>> what you eat.  Some people have all the luck!"
>>
>> Pessi told Chavy about her encounter with the curly topped red headed 
>> child.  Chavy's face blazed with anger.  "Chaya Kravitz is trouble.  I've 
>> known her since the day she was born, and spent many afternoons dragging 
>> her back to a worried mother who didn't have a clue about her 
>> whereabouts. Chaya blames me for all the trouble she gets into, but no 
>> one can convince her that if she didn't do something wrong to begin with 
>> nothing I do would make a difference.  Don't worry about Chaya Kravitz. 
>> Luckily she's not our problem."    The three of them headed for B'nos 
>> leaving Chaya Kravitz eyeing them from down the block.
>>
>> That afternoon Mrs. Newman, a short, attractive woman with light brown 
>> hair shared her insight on the topic of chesed.  As if responding to the 
>> actions of the past week the principal mentioned in her description, 
>> "Girls, many of you may think that when going on a Chesed assignment you 
>> are doing something nice for someone else.  The truth is that you are, 
>> but in return you're getting something greater back.  While giving to 
>> others you'll find yourself in many situations where you take away 
>> incomparable experiences with people that can't be taught on a university 
>> campus.  Over the years I've seen situations where Chesed girls go to 
>> people's homes and come out with a good friend for life, the knowledge of 
>> something they would have never learned if not for the people they 
>> started out helping and more understanding of the world in general. 
>> Chesed is not a school requirement just because people need help, but we 
>> want our girls to learn that there is a big world out there.  Where ever 
>> you end up we want you to know you have the ability to make a 
>> difference."
>>
>> During Mrs. Newman's weekly visit to Mrs. Goldberg Shayna raved about the 
>> girls who came four days a week to help her family and were instrumental 
>> in bringing her beautiful daughter into the world of teenage life.  Until 
>> that discussion Mrs. Newman had been unaware of this project and smiled 
>> listening to Shayna Goldberg tell of her students' activities.
>>
>> She simply responded, "Shayna, I love my job because my girls make it 
>> easy to love.  I'm glad they are helping out Pessi.  She's a lovely girl 
>> and deserves the help."
>>
>> Going through Pessi's mind were the questions, can anyone learn anything 
>> from helping my family?  What can girls learn from a dying mother and 
>> dire poverty?
>>
>> She had a feeling Mrs. Newman was referring to Chavy and Toby going to 
>> the Goldbergs' four days a week, but wondered what she was talking about 
>> when she implied that when helping a family like hers someone could come 
>> away with knowledge they wouldn't otherwise have.  Her mother mentioned 
>> the other day that Mrs. Newman visited and she told the principal about 
>> what her Chesed girls were doing, but Pessi still couldn't understand 
>> anything of value Chavy or Toby could take away with them.
>>
>> Going through Chavy's mind was the question, "How can she begin to know 
>> what helping the Goldbergs has contributed to our lives forever?"  Chavy 
>> knew she would never look at anything the same again.
>>
>> On the way out of school Chavy asked, "Pessi, Want to come over for sudat 
>> shlishit?"
>>
>> "Yes.  My father told me the boys would take care of it at my house."
>>
>> "Perhaps your brothers would tell Yigal and Dovid how to do it.  Yigal is 
>> still complaining about having to make tuna salad and drying dishes last 
>> week.  Those guys are worthless!  "
>>
>>
>>
>> Jennifer spent a lot of time that morning putting makeup over her healing 
>> bruises.  Once that was done she put on her cheerleader's uniform, and 
>> headed for the field.  On Jennifer's way out Sheila voiced her opinion. 
>> "I don't think you should be going out so soon after the accident."
>>
>> "Sheila, I'm a big girl and can take care of myself.  Stop worrying!" 
>> With that she left the house.
>>
>> She stood on the sidelines helping the cheerleaders inspire the crowd 
>> with their enthusiastic cheers.  A few of the girls came up to her to 
>> inquire about the accident.  Some of the guys welcomed her back while 
>> others couldn't resist commenting about the bruises on her face.
>>
>> Jack, a dark haired muscular line back with an oversized nose strode up 
>> to her during halftime.  "Jennifer, I'm sorry that your beautiful Jewish 
>> face had to suffer.  Maybe there's a Jewish prayer that will help it heal 
>> faster."  Holding the hand of another cheerleader he continued through 
>> the club house laughing.
>>
>> She stared after him wondering about his comment.  Did Jews pray?  Just 
>> another Saturday at the football field.
>>
>> When she got home she heard Sheila on the phone.  "Hold on a minute.  She 
>> just came in."  Jennifer took the phone.
>>
>> "Hi, Jennifer.  It's Randy.  I just got a call telling me that the other 
>> team lost.  The trophy is ours!"
>>
>> "Congratulations, Randy!  I know how hard you worked for this."
>>
>> "The dance tonight will be our victory party.  Will you go with me?"
>>
>> "Randy, we've been through this.  Enjoy the party.  You deserve it."
>>
>> Jennifer knew that Randy felt things for her that were probably 
>> indicative of teenage love.  But Jennifer didn't know how to love.  She 
>> liked Randy a lot, and couldn't mislead him into thinking that her 
>> feelings could be more serious than close friendship.  She changed out of 
>> her uniform and ran downstairs to her sewing machine.
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