The Interview

By L. M. Henderson

This book will touch every emotion, and inform the reader how easy it is to become homeless, and how we can help each other to avoid this life change. It gives hope to those who want to get out of this unfortunate life.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Balboa Press
• Release date: Nov 4, 2011
• ISBN: 9781452540917

L. M. Henderson

LINDA HENDERSON has lived in the San Francisco Bay Area all her life. She and her late husband Chuck performed in theater for over forty years, along with raising their two children. Linda has done extensive traveling and loves the different cultures. She also gives Reiki (healing) treatments for seniors in Half Moon Bay. Ideas for stories come to her and develop in her mind, and after a lot of editing, the book is ready to publish. She loves to write and looks forward to the finished product of her creation. [e-mail]

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THE INTERVIEW

L.M. HENDERSON

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Copyright © 2012 L.M. Henderson

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or by any information storage retrieval system without the written permission of the publisher except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

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The author of this book does not dispense medical advice or prescribe the use of any technique as a form of treatment for physical, emotional, or medical problems without the advice of a physician, either directly or indirectly. The intent of the author is only to offer information of a general nature to help you in your quest for emotional and spiritual well-being. In the event you use any of the information in this book for yourself, which is your constitutional right, the author and the publisher assume no responsibility for your actions.

Certain stock imagery © Thinkstock.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Thinkstock are models,

and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

ISBN: 978-1-4525-4091-7 (e)

ISBN: 978-1-4525-4090-0 (sc)

Printed in the United States of America

Balboa Press rev. date: 2/7/2012

Contents

PART I

CHAPTER ONE

CHAPTER TWO

CHAPTER THREE

PART II

CHAPTER FOUR

CHAPTER FIVE

CHAPTER SIX

CHAPTER SEVEN

CHAPTER EIGHT

PART III

CHAPTER NINE

CHAPTER TEN

CHAPTER ELEVEN

CHAPTER TWELVE

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

CHAPTER NINETEEN

CHAPTER TWENTY

CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE

CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO

CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE

CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR

PART IV

CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE

CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX

CHAPTER TWENTY-SEVEN

CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT

CHAPTER TWENTY-NINE

CHAPTER THIRTY

CHAPTER THIRTY ONE

A family tree grows straight and tall,

its branches stretching out in different directions.

Some will reach the sun and grow strong and firm,

others will bend and twist, constantly adjusting to

life’s afflictions.

PART I

CHAPTER ONE

1956-Connecticut

Ruth, you’re going to be late for school again. Hurry up! Mother, can’t you do something? She’s late every day, and her hair always looks as if she never combs it, Dorothy complained.

Don’t worry about your sister. Ruth doesn’t like me to brush her hair. Just worry about yourself, Marion Whitson reprimanded.

Ruth, who was thirteen years old, ran around the house gathering her lunch and books trying to be ready for the bus.

Your hair is so beautiful, Dorothy. The long, silky curls glisten.

Marion loved combing Dorothy’s hair each morning. Dorothy, who was fifteen years old, was prim and proper, and always wore a dress to school. She nagged her younger sister, Ruth, for her habitual sloppiness and tomboy demeanor. They were as different as night and day, and because of this, were not as close as sisters often are.

There you are. Beautiful as always. Have a good day at school.

Thank you, Mother. Ruth, are you ready yet? Come on or we’ll miss the bus, Dorothy yelled. Marion went into the kitchen to clean up.

I’m coming, I’m coming. All you do is nag. Whoops! I almost forget my math book. One more second, I promise.

As Ruth ran down the hall, Dorothy purposely stuck her leg out and tripped her. Ruth’s books and lunch went flying all over the floor.

Have you combed your hair yet? It doesn’t look like it, Dorothy said with sarcasm.

Ruth slowly got up off the floor, with a look on her face that said, you’d better get out of my way or else! Dorothy stood there with a smirk on her face. That did it! Ruth lunged at Dorothy and knocked her against the wall. Then she grabbed a handful of hair and proceeded to tangle it up. Dorothy was scared and started crying and slid to the floor in a crumpled mess. Dorothy had never seen her sister act this way, but she knew deep down that she had asked for it. Ruth quickly picked up her things and ran out the door to catch the bus. Dorothy was left behind, sitting on the floor whimpering.

What in the world happened here? Marion said as she came out of the kitchen. Dorothy looked up at her with her hair all messed up and a tear in her dress. She decided to stay home from school and nurse her wounded pride.

On a normal day it was the same procedure. As soon as Dorothy and Ruth got on the bus, Dorothy would immediately go over to her friends and leave Ruth to fend for herself. Dorothy was ashamed to be seen with her sister. Dorothy created a constant competition between the two of them. Ruth didn’t want to compete with her sister, but there were times when she had no choice, and kept the peace as much as she could, because their father wasn’t in the best of health. Ruth and her dad were very close and very much alike. When Dorothy would go to bed early or was out for the evening, Karl and Ruth talked, laughed, and shared their thoughts. There was a bond between them that made Dorothy envious. Marion compensated for Karl’s lack of attention to Dorothy, by giving more of her own time to her oldest daughter.

Dorothy rode the bus home from school each day, but Ruth liked to walk. She was a daydreamer, and loved to shop at the candy store. When she was feeling particularly low, she would lift her spirits by bringing home a stray cat or dog. She loved animals and felt sorry for them when they didn’t have a home. This unnerved Dorothy. She thought that animals were filthy pests. Marion tended to agree with Dorothy.

Karl would take Ruth’s side and say, Let her have pets. After all, she’s just a child.

A week after the fight with her sister, Ruth was feeling depressed and couldn’t understand why Dorothy treated her the way she did. Ruth never did anything that she was aware of, to make Dorothy act so vindictive. As she was thinking about this, she heard a noise coming from the alley next to Jason’s candy store. Ruth slowly walked into the alley and found an adorable tabby kitten, about two months old. She picked it up and loved it immediately. She wasn’t about to leave it there alone, shaking and hungry. She carried it home.

Is that you, Ruth? Marion asked.

Yes, Mother. You’ve got to be real good, kitty, or you can’t stay here.

She hesitatingly went into the living room, where her mother was reading.

Good God, Ruth, not another pet! You already have two cats and a dog.

I just couldn’t leave him to starve, Mother. He was shaking and lonely. Here, hold him. Isn’t he cute?

Get him off my lap, and put him outside.

Ruth brought him outside and gave him some milk and some bread. He ate it rapidly. There you are poor, lonely kitten. She was loving and caring with animals as well as with people. This made her vulnerable, and her father taught her to look out for herself and trust only those she knew and loved. He also taught her to be kind and thoughtful, because people needed to know that someone cared. Ruth never forgot what her father taught her. Getting along with Dorothy, however, was a challenge that she didn’t know how to cope with.

Karl Whitson was a hard working insurance salesman. Recently, he had been experiencing chest pains brought on by the stress of his job. His superiors were always telling him what a good salesman he was, but they always expected more and more from him. His doctor told him to slow down and not work so hard. This was difficult to do and still be able to keep up the sales to earn the salary his family was used to. The Whitsons loved their home in Connecticut. It was charming and a good size for bringing up two girls and all of their pets. Karl’s boss was understanding, and diverted more of his work to a desk job so that he wouldn’t have the continuous pressure of selling.

Karl was stocky, a little on the heavy side, and smoked. His doctor urged him to quit and lose weight at the same time. He loved to eat, and smoking was a habit he couldn’t break.

Before coming home on this particular night, he stopped at the pet store and bought a canary for Ruth. He didn’t know what got into him, but he just wanted to bring her something. When he walked into the kitchen with the birdcage, he handed it to Ruth. Her delight was what he expected, but the sharp reaction from Dorothy startled him.

Father, a bird? What’s wrong with you? Ruth has a million pets already, and you bring this dirty bird into the house. Mother, you can’t let him do this. I feel like I’m living in a zoo.

It’s none of your business, Dorothy, Ruth said defensively. He bought it for me, not you.

Dorothy pursed her lips and glared at Ruth. She stomped out of the kitchen, ran upstairs to her bedroom and slammed the door.

Well, I certainly didn’t expect a reaction like that, Karl said rather shocked. I knew she didn’t like pets, but that was uncalled for. I’ll go up and talk to her later when she’s cooled down a bit.

Karl, you must admit, Marion said perturbed, What we didn’t need at this time was another pet.

Ruth loves them. Would you like it up in your room, honey? Karl said to Ruth.

Yes, Daddy. Thanks, and I’m sorry Dorothy’s upset. She doesn’t understand, but don’t worry about it. I’ll talk to her.

Karl was touched. Here was this young child telling him not to worry, and that she would handle the problem. He was thinking what a good person she was, and how selfish and self-centered Dorothy was. He couldn’t imagine how he and Marion were parents to such completely different children.

Ruth kept the bird in her room and would let him out of his cage every day for about half an hour. She would let him have freedom from his confinement. She called him Petey. He was happy and often sang for her. Dorothy hated Petey. She stayed away from Ruth’s room as much as possible and complained that Petey smelled.

Petey doesn’t smell. You just don’t like him, that’s all, Ruth said at dinner one night.

That’s right. I don’t like him, or any of your other stinky pets. Animals belong outside and in someone else’s yard.

That’s enough, girls, Marion said crossly. All you ever do is argue. Learn to cope with each other’s differences. You’ll be better off for it.

Mother, did I tell you? Dorothy said, changing the subject, Stacey Williams and I are invited to go to a party Saturday night. You’ll never guess who invited us. Jack Browning!

Isn’t he the one you both have a crush on? Marion asked.

Yes. But I’m more his type than Stacey is. I think he likes me better for my looks, as well as my personality.

Ruth rolled her eyes. She looked at her father, who was winking at her. Ruth started giggling, and Dorothy glared at her.

What are you laughing at? If you’re lucky, and if you shape up, maybe someday you’ll be invited to a party.

Ruth stopped eating, put her fork down, and looked at Dorothy for a minute, before saying, I was walking home from school two days ago, and I noticed Jack Browning and Stacey holding hands as they walked into the bookstore. They didn’t see me. What do you suppose they were doing?

Dorothy threw down her napkin, ran out of the room, went up to her bedroom, threw herself onto her bed, and cried.

Ruth, that was uncalled for, Marion said.

I wouldn’t say that, Karl said in Ruth’s defense. Ruth finally had something to say to protect herself. Good girl!"

Karl!

Never mind, Marion. You always take Dorothy’s side. This time she got a little bit of her own medicine, and deserved it. Please pass the peas.

Later that evening, Ruth was lying on her bed reading. Petey was flying around his cage wanting to get out.

You poor thing. I bet you’ve been wondering why I haven’t let you out of your cage today. There you go beautiful bird. Fly to your heart’s content.

Petey flew on top of the curtain rods, on top of the lampshade, and finally rested on Ruth’s head.

Petey, get off of me. Your claws hurt, you silly bird. As she lifted him off of her head, she had a marvelous idea, and smiled at the thought.

Petey, how would you like to fly around for a while in Dorothy’s room? She’d hate it, but she’s been doing some pretty bad things to me lately. Let’s get back at her. It’ll be fun, especially when her room is so prissy and perfect. Come on, let’s see what Dorothy’s doing.

Ruth and Petey quietly crept down the hall to Dorothy’s room. The door was closed, but she could hear the radio playing classical music. Dorothy was busy writing letters to her pen pals in Australia. Her room was always neat and tidy, and was a beautiful combination of lavenders and blues. The comforter on her bed was an array of pink, lavender, and blue flowers. There wasn’t a thing out of place anywhere. She was proud of her neatness.

Ruth knocked on Dorothy’s door, and heard her say, Come in, the door’s open.

Hi! Petey and I wanted to pay you a visit.

Get that bird out of here, Ruth, I’m warning you.

Don’t talk to Petey like that; he gets upset when he thinks he isn’t liked.

I don’t care what he does as long as he doesn’t do it in here.

Whoops! He flew right out of my hand. Did you see that?

Ruth! Get him out of here, now!

Gee, Dorothy, I’m sorry. He’s hard to get a hold of when he’s flying around like this. Here, I’ll stand on this chair and maybe I can reach him up there on the curtains.

Ruth tried to reach him with a minimal amount of effort. Just as she came close to grabbing him, he’d fly away. Then he landed on Dorothy’s head. That was a mistake.

Oh no! Get him off! Get him off! He’s hurting my head. Please get him off. She was terribly upset and crying.

Don’t panic, Dorothy, I’ll get him. Just sit still while I gently take him. There we are Petey. That’s a good boy, come to Ruth.

Just as Ruth was lifting Petey off of Dorothy’s head, he messed all over Dorothy’s hair, and she had just washed it a half-hour before.

Now look what you’ve done, you filthy bird. Ruth, you’ll pay for this. I swear you will.

Dorothy ran into the bathroom and started running the shower. She was livid. Ruth walked quietly out of the bedroom with Petey back to her own room. She put Petey in his cage and fell on her bed in hysterical laughter.

Christmas was the Whitsons’ favorite time of year. Ruth loved the music. When she was out shopping, she would listen to the carolers for a long time and sometimes sang along with them.

Karl, let’s give the girls a nice piece of jewelry this Christmas along with their other gifts. What do you think?

What kind of jewelry did you have in mind?

I thought about a brooch for Dorothy, since she always wears one on her blouse or coat, and maybe a gold cross for Ruth. She’s often admired the one my friend Joan wears.

"That’s an excellent idea. I think the girls would like that a lot. Ruth I doubt will ever take the cross off her neck. Remember that ring your friend, Marcy, gave her when she was a little child?

I remember that incident very well, Marion laughed. "She cried buckets when we removed it. After we had it sized though, she never wore it again.

We had a heck of a time convincing her that if she didn’t take it off she would have to have it surgically removed, Karl laughed.

Karl and Marion looked in the windows of several jewelry stores to see what they had to offer. As they browsed, they both agreed that this was the place to go into. They displayed a beautiful selection of brooches, and there was a lovely gold cross with a tiny ruby in the center. It sat in the corner of the window, glittering in the sun.

May I help you two with something? the jeweler asked.

Yes, please, Marion said enthusiastically.

We’re looking for a brooch for our oldest daughter, and you seem to have a good selection. Also, we’re interested in that gold cross in the corner there, for our younger daughter, Karl said.

It’s the only gold cross we have left, but as you can see, we have a nice selection of brooches. Did you have any particular style in mind?

Not really, Marion said.

Here, let me take a few of these out of the window for you.

I would also like to see the gold cross, please, Karl said.

My pleasure, sir.

Marion, it’s beautiful. Look at that ruby. It makes the cross exceptionally striking. Also, it’s Ruth’s birthstone, isn’t it?

That’s right, I hadn’t thought about birthstones. Look at these brooches, Karl, they’re also lovely. This silver one with the amethyst is gorgeous, and it’s Dorothy’s birthstone. I love the flower design; it has an antique look. I think these two pieces would be wonderful for Christmas gifts.

Indeed, these are lovely gifts for your daughters. Would you like them gift wrapped?

Yes, that would be nice, Karl said.

When they came home, they put the little packages under the tree, which stood from the floor to the ceiling. Later on, the girls decorated it, and used every ornament and every strand of tinsel they could find. Ruth popped corn and strung three huge garlands of it around the tree. Dorothy thought it made the tree look dumpy, but her father convinced her that it was old fashioned and gave the tree character.

Ruth always placed the top ornament on the tree. It started when she was three. Karl had brought home a huge tree, and it frightened Ruth for some reason. She didn’t understand why this huge, green tree was brought into their home. It should have been outside in the ground, with all the others. Marion picked her up, walked over to the tree, and talked to her about it. She explained why it was there. That’s when Karl decided that he would pick out the prettiest angel he could find and let Ruth put it on top of the tree. Now, every year, even with Dorothy’s pouting, Ruth placed the angel on the tree top. She looked forward to it, and it became a tradition. It really felt like Christmas when this was done.

Christmas morning arrived. The girls had taken the stockings down already and opened the small gifts inside. Marion fixed a big breakfast. Her family always had huge appetites when they managed to get themselves out of bed and downstairs. The aroma of coffee and homemade cinnamon rolls, which had risen all night permeated throughout the house.

After everything was prepared in the kitchen, Marion came into the living room and announced that breakfast was ready. They would open the gifts under the tree after eating.

Mother, it smells wonderful, Ruth said.

Dorothy shook her head and said, It doesn’t smell. It has a wonderful aroma. Learn to use the proper words.

It’s Christmas. Don’t you dare ruin my day, Dorothy.

Don’t get touchy, Ruth. It was just a comment. Mother, the table looks beautiful. I’m famished. Would you like some orange juice, Ruth?

Yes, please. I’ll get the rolls out of the oven. Are they ready, Mother?

I think they’re about ready now. Put them on this plate, if you will.

As Ruth lifted the pan out of the oven, she dropped it. The rolls fell out and rolled on the floor.

You’re so clumsy. Now look what you’ve done, Dorothy scolded.

Never mind, Dorothy, they’ll be fine. Here, I’ll help you pick them up, Ruth, Marion said.

I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to do it, Ruth said, starting to cry. She was embarrassed.

This kitchen sure smells good. What’s going on in here? Karl said, barely awake.

Ruth wiped her eyes and said, "Daddy, you’d better watch out when you use the word smell in this house," Ruth said, while looking at Dorothy.

What are you talking about? Karl questioned.

Nothing, Daddy. Merry Christmas, Ruth said as she reached up and kissed him.

Let’s have breakfast so we can open all the presents. There’s certainly a lot of them. You two have spent too much money this Christmas, Marion said, concerned.

Don’t worry, Mother, we wouldn’t have bought them for you if we couldn’t afford them. Besides, not all of them are bought, Ruth said quietly.

What did you do, steal them? Dorothy spouted sarcastically.

None of your business, snob. Just because you have a part time job after school, and I don’t.

Ruth, no matter what you give us for Christmas, we’ll love it because you gave it to us, Karl stated.

What a touching scene. It should be on a soap opera, Dorothy uttered.

Hey, you two, it’s Christmas, remember? Marion said.

Right. We have some Santa Claus business to attend to, Karl said.

Really, Daddy. We’re a little old for Santa Claus, don’t you think? Ruth giggled.

Never too old. Never lose your childhood, girls, it goes too fast.

Some of us will never grow up, Dorothy exclaimed, looking at Ruth.

I want to pass out the presents, Ruth shouted enthusiastically.

Sure you can. Let’s go into the living room and start. Last one in is a lemon, Karl yelled.

Mother, they’re both children. When will Father grow up? He always treats Ruth like a baby.

Don’t worry about it now, Dorothy. It’s a wonderful day. I can’t wait for you to open your presents. Come now, stop fussing around the kitchen.

Marion and Karl made sure the girls opened their packages from the jewelry store last. They wanted them to open their gifts at the same time, and had a camera ready to catch the expressions on their faces.

I wonder what’s in this cute little box, Dorothy mused.

My friend Susan says that the best things come in small packages, Ruth remembered.

That’s true, and we think you’ll both agree when you open them, Karl said anxiously.

The girls carefully opened the boxes. The camera flashed to catch the moment of surprise.

This is beautiful. Amethyst is my birthstone, and I love the design on the silver. Thank you so much, Dorothy gushed.

She kissed her parents, and Ruth just sat there with tears running down her cheeks.

Ruth, what’s wrong? Don’t you like the cross, honey? Karl asked.

Yes, Daddy, I love it. I’m just so….

Overwhelmed, maybe? Marion said, moved by Ruth’s reaction.

That’s it. Overwhelmed. I’ve never had anything so beautiful.

Let’s see it, Ruth, Dorothy said, with a touch of envy in her voice.

Ruth held up the small cross in her hands and pointed it toward the lights on the Christmas tree. The tiny ruby sparkled with brilliance that made her eyes open wide with pleasure. She wondered how anything could be so beautiful and be her very own.

These gifts are given to you both with much love. Your father and I had a wonderful time shopping for them.

I love my brooch. It’ll look great on my gray coat. Thanks again, Dorothy said.

My cross is wonderful and I love it a lot. Would you help me put it on, Daddy?

Sure, sweetheart. Come here and I’ll hook it for you.

As soon as Karl put it on her, Ruth ran into the downstairs bathroom and looked in the mirror. The gold was highly polished, and the ruby was small, but sparkled brightly. She made a promise to herself that she would never take the cross off, except when she took a shower or went swimming. It would remain around her neck for the rest of her life.

A few weeks after Christmas, Dorothy was still jealous of Ruth’s cross. She tried several times to convince Ruth that she should let her wear it, too.

This cross was given to me and I’ll wear it, Dorothy. I don’t ask to wear your brooch, do I?

Don’t bother me anymore about this cross. It stays around my neck. By the way, did you hear about Sara Clark? Her dad died last week in his sleep. She’s so upset about it that I gave her one of my cats so she could have something to love. I figured you’d be happy with one less cat around here.

A cat? Honestly, Ruth. You come up with the silliest ideas sometimes.

What’s silly about a cat? Why do you hate animals so much?

Give me a break. They’re dirty things. Not to change the subject, but how are your grades doing?

You always end up our conversations talking about my grades. It’s none of your business, Dorothy. My grades are my concern.

My grades are commendable; how about yours? Dorothy asked, boasting.

Well, mine aren’t. What are you going to do about it?

Don’t you ever worry about being able to find a job when you graduate from high school in four years? After all, you may not find a rich man to support you. Don’t you ever think about those things?

I don’t want to talk about this anymore.

Ruth ran into her room and slammed the door. She fell on her bed and cried. She was frustrated and couldn’t understand why Dorothy always did this to her. Sisters were supposed to be close and understanding. Dorothy only cared about herself. Ruth had to live with it until she could get out and find her own way in life. This worried her, because she didn’t feel confident that she would ever be capable of going out on her own, if she didn’t get her grades up and concentrate on a future vocation. She found it hard to study and her mind would wander.

Ruth decided to go for a walk and visit the pet shop. This was her salvation. Those sweet, lonely animals with their sad eyes, just waiting for her to come by and rescue them. They didn’t talk back, criticize, or judge her. They simply loved her.

Ruth brought home a black and white kitten, and put him on her bed and played with him. She named him Checkers. Animals loved Ruth because they could sense that she loved them. On the other hand, when Dorothy came near any of Ruth’s cats, they would hiss at her, slowly slink around her legs, and look at her as if they were about to pounce. This unnerved Dorothy.

Ruth announced her new addition at the dinner table. Well, you guys, I have a new cat. He’s black and white, and just adorable.

Dorothy put down her fork and stared at Ruth.

Another cat? Karl asked.

I gave Sara Clark one of my cats.

Oh? Marion said concerned.

Sara’s father died, and Ruth thinks that a cat will take care of everything, Dorothy said sarcastically.

Dorothy, stop criticizing Ruth for liking pets, Karl snapped.

Can’t we have a meal in this house, without you two arguing and glaring at each other? It’s getting ridiculous. We’ve had enough of this. Learn to put up with each other’s faults. Believe me, you both have them.

All heads turned in Marion’s direction, surprised that she expressed any opinion at all about the constant bickering. She was usually quiet, or took Dorothy’s side.

CHAPTER TWO

1960

Marion was cleaning the house when the phone rang. Hello, Mrs. Whitson?

Yes.

This is Mr. Ruben, the principal and counselor at Lincoln High School. I’m calling about your daughter, Ruth. She’s having a problem with her grades.

I know, and I don’t know what to do about it, Marion lamented.

I feel that Ruth has a lot of potential, but she isn’t applying herself. There are only four months left before graduation, and I’m afraid that if she continues the way she is, she may not make the transition.

Do you have any suggestions as to what to do about it?

We’ve talked extensively about this, and she had reassured me in the past that she would try hard to concentrate on her studies and improve. I still think there’s promise, but there’s definitely an emotional problem. I think it has something to do with her sister. Dorothy graduated with honors, and this seems to be a problem for Ruth. In our recent conversations, it has come out that there’s a considerable amount of rivalry between them. What I would like to do is make an appointment to talk with you. Could you come in tomorrow around 10:00 a.m.?

Yes, I certainly will.

After she hung up, Marion sat down and contemplated what she had just heard. She was distraught, but wouldn’t tell Karl about it yet, because he had been feeling poorly lately. Marion knew that there was rivalry between Dorothy and Ruth, but didn’t know how to cope with it. Dorothy was strong willed and able to manipulate people to get what she wanted. Ruth, on the other hand, was vulnerable, willing to please, and a perfect target for someone of Dorothy’s nature. Karl was so tired of the whole thing that he would end up taking Ruth’s side, no matter what.

Dorothy had a job in a law office, and was training to be a legal secretary. She was making a good salary, and didn’t waste any time in flaunting her good fortune in front of Ruth, whenever she could.

Marion’s meeting with Mr. Ruben was not as successful as she had hoped. She was at a loss as to what to do about Ruth. He offered suggestions, but to no avail. He realized that he was dealing with parents that were at a loss as to what to do about the situation because they lacked enough strength to initiate discipline.

Mrs. Whitson, I can’t stress enough that Ruth’s future is at stake here. She needs an education or she’ll be bouncing around from job to job all her life. If she marries someone who makes a good living, that’s fine. But you can’t count on that. Do you see what I’m saying? It would be better for her if she learned something that she can earn a living with if she had to support herself.

But how can I make her do something that she doesn’t want to do? What would you do?

I would have a good talk with her to find out exactly what the problem is. There has to be a reason for her attitude about getting the most out of her education and capabilities. I personally think it’s her sister and their relationship.

Dorothy has a very strong personality and is determined to get what she wants out of life. She’s hard to deal with and I wish I had realized this sooner. Karl has always taken Ruth’s side and would tell me not to favor Dorothy so much. I didn’t listen to him. Now my baby girl is a failure in school. What can I do?

Marion started to cry.

Mrs. Whitson, your daughter need not be a failure. I’ve warned you that she needs to put more effort into her work. I’m just trying to bring this to your attention.

I understand. My husband has high blood pressure. I hate to cause more stress for him. I must think about this problem very carefully.

That’s all I want you to do. Think about it. Act on it as you see fit. I’ll do my best to see that she graduates and has some interest in something other than sports.

Marion left his office feeling like a failure, but was determined to do something about it. She was feeling guilty about Ruth. She began to understand her better and would support her more than she had in the past.

Ruth, let’s talk. Come on into the den and we’ll have a little privacy, Marion said.

What’s wrong, Mother? What did I do now?

Nothing, dear. I’m not here to scold you or anything.

What’s the problem? Don’t answer, I bet I know. School. Right?

Please don’t get defensive, Ruth, this is hard for me. We need to have a sensible, adult conversation. We haven’t had many of them in the past.

Mother, we haven’t had any at all.

I talked with your counselor yesterday.

Dear Mr. Ruben. What did he have to say?

Ruth, please. He’s concerned that you may not graduate. There still is time, however, if you think seriously about studying. You’ve got to Ruth, otherwise you’ll find it very difficult to survive on your own.

My God, Mother, you sound like Dorothy. You two are from the same mold, I swear.

"Ruth, stop it. I’m not talking about Dorothy. I’m concerned about you. Can’t you believe that?"

No.

Why not?

Mother, you’ve never been concerned about me before. Why now? Is your conscience bothering you?

Why are you so bitter?

Ruth had a hard time choking back tears, because she wasn’t used to talking like this to anyone, especially her mother. But her patience with her sister was coming to an end, and her softness was becoming hard.

Mother, listen to me. I know you want to talk to me about my grades, but I’m not concerned. I can always find a job. I’m a survivor. I’m not stupid, even though certain people around here think I am. There’s always jobs out there.

Ruth, you don’t even dress neatly. I mean, when you look for a job, you have to present yourself in a professional way.

I’m not a glamour girl like my sister, Mother, I’m me. Casual Ruth. That’s who I am.

Fine. But when you’re looking for work, appearance counts, Ruth. Believe me.

There is no way on this earth that I’ll look like Dorothy. Her Gucci bags and designer clothes. Forget it. That’s not me, and it never will be.

Ruth, what about graduation? Can you improve your grades in four months? That’s all I care about right now. What you do with your life after graduation is your concern. I promise I won’t interfere. Just graduate, please. Your father would love to see his little girl graduate. Do it for him.

Mother, you didn’t tell him about my grades, did you?

No, of course not, he couldn’t take it.

I know. Just make believe that everything is fine. I’ll try harder. I’ll make an effort these next four months. I’ll graduate. Just don’t let Dorothy or Daddy know about this.

I promise.

The next four months were grueling for Ruth. She had a hard time concentrating on her homework, and even a harder time taking her tests for graduation. Mr. Ruben was understanding though, and gave her extra tutoring after school. She appreciated it, and was cooperative. She felt confident that she would be able to get along in the world and didn’t want to disappoint her father.

Mother, isn’t Ruth spending a lot of time in her room lately? She seems to have a lot of homework. I never had that much, what’s going on? Dorothy surmised.

Nothing’s going on, Dorothy. Why are you so interested? You’ve never been interested in Ruth’s life before?

Mother! How can you say that? I’m always concerned about Ruth. By the way, I got a promotion. I’m now a legal secretary, and a nice raise came along with it.

Wonderful. I’m so proud of you. You’re making a nice salary now, aren’t you?

Yes, I am. You say that as if you had something on your mind. What is it, Mother?

Nothing, honey. I just wondered if you thought about going out on your own. Maybe sharing an apartment with someone.

Mother, if I didn’t know better, I would think that you’re trying to get rid of me.

Dorothy, for heaven’s sake. You’re 20 years old. Most women your age are dying to make it on their own. Don’t you ever want your privacy?

I don’t have any boyfriends, if that’s what you mean. All the men I meet want nothing but sex. I want more than that from my man.

You need to loosen up a bit dear, in your relationships.

Dorothy couldn’t believe what she was hearing. From her own mother, who always understood her and sided with her when things got out of hand.

Marion had taken a long time to come around, but she was now understanding Ruth’s side. She realized that Dorothy’s self-righteous and intimidating attitude toward her sister was getting old. Marion thought that if she could convince Dorothy to move out, maybe there would be some peace in the house.

I see that I’m not wanted around here, so I’ll certainly look for another place to live. I wouldn’t want to intrude on this family.

Dorothy, please. I only meant that you would probably be happier being independent, honey. Think about it. Your very own place. I would have given anything if I could have afforded to have my own place when I was your age. You’re very lucky to have the means to be able to do it.

Actually, maybe you’re right. Are you sure you’re not just trying to get rid of me?

Marion gave her a hug. Of course not, honey. We love you and would certainly miss you, but I’m only thinking of your interests and welfare.

I’ll give it some thought. Ruth would certainly be happy if I left.

Come on, don’t start now. Just think about it and look at apartments. There’s some lovely ones, and they’re close enough that we could visit all the time.

I’ll start looking this weekend. Do me a favor though, don’t tell Ruth yet.

What about your father?

I’ll talk to him about it. Where is he?

He’s watching television. That is, if he hasn’t fallen asleep yet. He’s been so tired lately, I worry about him.

I know. He doesn’t look well, does he? I worry about him too.

Father?

Dorothy gently wiggled his arm. He wasn’t in a deep sleep, just dozing.

Huh, what’s up? Karl said rubbing his eyes.

I woke you up because I have something to tell you.

Sounds serious. Anything wrong?

No. Just some plans I have. Let me share them with you. Please don’t tell Ruth yet; wait until they’re definite.

Does your mother know?

Yes. I was just talking to her and she suggested that I tell you what I’m going to do. It makes sense that I look for an apartment of my own. After all, I’m 20 years old now, and it’s about time I find my own place and get out of your hair.

Are you sure about this? Do you make enough money to afford having your own place?

Yes. I just got a promotion and a raise. I’m a legal secretary now, Dorothy announced with hands on her hips.

That’s wonderful, honey, I’m very proud of you. Well, if you want to do this, that’s fine with me. Just be careful where you live. Are you planning to move in with a girl friend?

I don’t think so. I like my privacy, and I’m sort of hard to live with.

I won’t argue with that, Karl said with a hearty laugh.

Father! I’m not that bad, am I?

No, of course not. I’m just teasing you. Let me know of any progress you’ve made in looking for a place. I hope it’s close to us, so we can see each other often.

It will be.

Dorothy went upstairs, and as she passed Ruth’s door she heard her talking, and figured that it was one of her cats she was conversing with. Dorothy shook her head in disgust, and went to her room for the night. She started taking off her clothes and was admiring herself in the mirror. She was thinking that her figure wasn’t bad at all. She started running her hands up her thighs and caressing herself all over. Dorothy was getting excited. She wished that there was someone special in her life, but every man she was interested in was turned off because of her coldness and superior attitude. She closed her eyes and imagined what it would feel like to have a man. Dorothy’s thoughts were running wild building up to a wonderful release, when all of a sudden someone was knocking on her door. She opened her eyes, startled, and lost her mood. She threw on her robe, went to the door and said, Who is it?

It’s Ruth. I’m having a math problem, could you help me?

Damn her. Her timing stinks. Yes, come in.

Thanks. I hope I’m not disturbing you. I just can’t figure this out.

Ruth couldn’t believe how cooperative Dorothy was being. She had been afraid to come to her for fear of being ridiculed.

Here, this is your solution. As Dorothy explained it, Ruth began to understand what she was doing wrong.

Thanks, I appreciate it. Goodnight, Ruth said.

Goodnight. Poor, pathetic, girl. She’ll never get anywhere at the rate she’s going.

Ruth went back to her room, put her homework down, and walked over to the window. It was a starry night. The moon was full. She rested her chin on her arms and just stared at it in wonder. She played with her gold cross, which she always wore around her neck, and found herself thinking about what she could possibly do with her life. Unfortunately, her ambitions weren’t strong enough to help her in reaching any goals. She knew that she was lazy when it came to productive work. After all, she was only pushing to graduate for her father, not for herself.

It was three in the morning. Ruth couldn’t sleep. She quietly got up, put her robe on, and pattered downstairs to get some hot cocoa. She went into the living room, and looked out the window. A car drove by and she saw that it was Fred Moran. He was in her math class, and always came on to her. She didn’t respond because he was from a poor family and he drank too much. She felt that this could cause a problem if they had a relationship. He was tall, blonde, attractive, and polite, and was known as the class clown. She wondered why he was coming home this late. Probably partying, was her guess. She sometimes fantasized about him. He stirred feelings inside her that she wasn’t familiar with. Later, she fell asleep thinking about Fred.

It was grad night, and to everyone’s joy, Ruth graduated. It was close, but she made it. She was so relieved to be rid of homework and studying. After commencement, everyone was getting ready to go to the party. She told her parents not to wait up for her, because she was planning on having a good time to celebrate her triumph.

At the party, Fred kept after her to dance.

Okay, I’ll dance with you. You’re persistent. Out of all these gorgeous females around here, why are you bothering me?

That’s a stupid thing to say. You’re pretty good looking yourself, you know.

Please. I know better. Anyway, you’re a good dancer. I’m surprised.

Why? Don’t I look like the type who could dance? Being poor doesn’t mean I can’t dance.

Fred, I didn’t mean anything by it. I just didn’t know that you danced. That’s all.

I’m also good at building things. Give me a hammer, nails, and some pieces of wood, and I’ll make you just about anything you want.

Really? That’s great.

My dad is trying and get me a job with an independent contractor. He works off and on, but his back is in bad shape. Because of that, we’re on…it doesn’t matter. You’re not interested in that.

No, go on. I am interested, Fred. Does your mom work?

"No. She never finished high school and found it hard to get a job. Employers want to know all about you, and they didn’t like the fact that she’s without