Thought 08MAY2009

DISCOVERY
My class was two weeks away from opening night of our play when Sherry walked into my classroom and in a hesitant voice announced that she would have to quit. Hundreds of reasons for such a declaration rushed through my mind -- tragic illness, death in the family, a terrible family crisis. The expression on my face prompted a further explanation. Sherry stammered, "My boyfriend Dave wants me to quit. The rehearsals are taking too much time away from our being together. I bring him sandwiches after football practice." Her boyfriend was a football player who later went on to play in the pros. He was the opposite of his brother Dan, who also played on the high school team. While Dan was easygoing, had a terrific sense of humor and was liked by nearly everyone, Dave seemed to always be angry and in need of someone to boss around. "Sherry," I said, "we're only two weeks from opening. You're outstanding in your role. I'd never be able to replace you."

"Really?" She beamed. "Really," I said, and I meant it. "Everyone should be allowed to do the things they are good at. You're a good actress. Dave should realize that. I know you know how much he loves football." "Yes," she agreed. "But I still have to quit." "I'll bet you're his best fan." She measured the words. "I am," she said. "Has he ever been to a Saturday morning rehearsal to see how good you are?" "No." "He should," I told her. "He should be your number one fan." The next day after sixth hour, my door flew open with a thud. Dave thundered toward me, looking twice as big as his 260 pounds. His arms dangled by his side, his large fists clenched as if around my neck. He leaned across my desk, veins popping, face red as a beet. "You...you...you..." he stammered.

"Can I help you, Dave?" I asked, hoping that my voice wouldn't shake the way my knees were. He never got beyond "you" before he turned and stomped out the door. I listened until the heavy footsteps started down the stairs to the first floor. Sherry did continue with the play, and I can honestly say starred in her art. I also noticed that she smiled more, and I occasionally saw her interacting with other students with a great deal of poise. Dave, I heard, found another girlfriend.
By Eugene E. Beasley - from Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul II, Copyright 1998 by Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen and Kimberly Kirberger
Eyes that see do not grow old - Nicaraguan Proverb