Ungolden Silence: A Thought Provoking Novel

By Lydia E. Brew

A few years ago, two teenage girls were kidnapped and their names were given on the national news. Luckily they were found alive. It was determined that they had been sexually assaulted, and their names were not given after that. What is wrong with this picture? We hear the name of every crime victim except the name of people that are sexually assaulted. We are protecting their privacy as if they have done something wrong. Rape is a crime just like murder, stealing, robbing a bank, carjacking and any and every other crime that we have to deal with as a society. Sometimes a rape victim is shown on television but her face is not shown because she is frightened that her rapist will come back to hurt her. This is understandable. However, when the rapist is in jail and the victim is on television her face is still hidden. Why? Another question is why are rape victims reluctant to come forward and report that someone has just raped them? Could the reason be that the rapist is the victims boss, teacher, colleague, boyfriend, a family member, a casual acquaintance, or maybe a stranger? Ungolden Silence is an exploration of how rape is treated in the United States.

It is imperative to change the way that society looks and deals with this social taboo. Ungolden Silence is a novel that will leave the reader with many questions. It will also attempt to answer some of the questions that society asks but never seem to want to answer. We must look at the history of how men have been allowed to treat women. It is important not to just know the information, it is important to act on it.

Ungolden Silence will explore the world of rape and expose the myths through articles that are based on facts. The main questions that needs to be answered in why one human being would rape another human being. These reasons are explored in the story.

When any crime takes place, the families of the victims as well as the criminal are involved. Ungolden Silence will illustrate that the criminal is a real person, and rarely do they commit crimes just for the fun of it.

It is important to know that rape is a part of violence. Through the characters of Ungolden Silence it is hoped that society will begin to find a way to eliminate the acceptance of violence, which includes the act of rape.

It is imperative that society understands that rape does not stand on an island by itself. Rape is a room in the house of violence. When looking into the house of violence we cannot just go into the front door and head to the rape room. We must look at other rooms. One room we must look into is the room of abuse. When we enter the room we see that there are different kinds of abuse. They are sexual, physical, and mental.

Again the main question is why a man or a woman will rape another person. While the answer is far too complex Ungolden Silence will attempt to give some possible explanation. The answers are not simple or exact. Each rape case is as unique as the persons involved -- both perpetrator and the victim.

Ungolden Silence looks at this social taboo in a unique way. The Calloway Firm, where the owners and employees are African-Americans, sends two women to Washington D.C. to begin a campaign to create awareness about the disabled. Elaine Wilson, who is disabled, is in charge of the project. Beatrice James is her partner and goes with her.

Their client, Mrs. Stevens is impressed with the professionalism that Beatrice and Elaine show as they share their ideas for the campaign to increase the awareness of the disabled. Mrs. Stevens is amazed to see that Elaine really is in charge of the project. The story changes when Mr. Thomas Paige, a very influential African-American in the city comes into the picture. Mrs. Stevens, though an extremely rich and influential American woman of European descent, is very excited to have Mr. Paige on the project.

Beatri

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Dec 13, 2007
• ISBN: 9781462803354

Lydia E. Brew

Born in 1958 with cerebral palsy, Lydia Earnestine Brew, has never allowed her disability to stand in her way. She graduated from Sterling High School, Victoria Junior College, and Texas Southern University. Rapists depend upon the shame and humiliation of the victims to assist them in going unpunished for their heinous crimes. If everyone learns the value of disclosing rape, our society will be better. Ungolden Silence makes the reader aware of the value of going public with any form of rape and gives examples of what can be done.

Book preview

Part One

The Silent Problem

Chapter 1

The New Firm

E rna Elaine Wilson is a thirty-seven year-old African-American woman who was born with the umbilical cord wrapped around her neck. This caused her to have cerebral palsy. She grew up and graduated from college with a degree in advertising. Like her mother, Helen, Elaine is a member of the Beta Lambda Beta Sorority. Elaine is especially proud of this, since her parents, Helen and Willie, were once told to put their daughter in the state hospital for the mentally retarded. Her disability was obvious from the time she could say hello. However, once a person got accustomed to her speech, he would soon find that her mental capacities were all there, and she could do many things. The only thing she could not do was drive. This would cause her to get depressed at times when she needed to go somewhere, but it proved to be more a nuisance than anything else.

During the 1960s Elaine attended special education classes at Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School. While all of her classmates were physically disabled, she was the only African-American in the class.

When she was sixteen years old, Elaine joined a club of young disabled people. This was very exciting for her because the director, Catherine Peterson, asked her to think of ways to make people more aware of the disabled in Houston. She watched the different public service announcements on television and was aware of Josephine Harper, who in the nineteen seventies was one of the first African-Americans to work in a major advertising firm. Miss Harper had her own office with two assistants, Kathy Miller and Beatrice James.

Elaine was nervous as she dialed the number.

Robertson Advertising firm, a voice said.

May I speak with Miss Josephine Harper?

Ma’am, I am sorry. I can’t understand you.

Although she was used to this, Elaine got mad when people did not even try to understand her. She took a deep breath and repeated her request.

Josephine Harper’s office, may I help you? the lady said in a pleasant voice.

Yes, may I speak with Josephine Harper? Elaine said as plainly as she could. A few seconds later she heard:

This is Josephine, may I help you?

My name is Elaine Wilson, Elaine said as slowly and plainly as she could. She was nervous, her stomach was full of butterflies, but she was on the phone now and could not turn back even if she wanted to. I am with the Disabled Club of Houston. Elaine paused to get her breath. Can you understand me?

Yes, I can understand you. How can I help?

Elaine continued, We need a campaign to make people aware of the needs of the disabled and of the different kinds of disabilities. Do you wear glasses, Miss Harper?

Yeah, I do, Josephine responded. What is this? That is an odd question.

Well, this means your eyes need extra help for them to function correctly. Billions upon billions of people wear glasses, and we don’t consider them disabled, Elaine responded.

Mmmm… I never thought of it that way. I can’t do anything without these things.

This is what we need to make people aware of.

So what the Disabled Club of Houston wants to do is launch a public awareness campaign to raise awareness that the disabled are people like everyone else—we just have special needs. We have funding and a budget and I would love to meet with you to discuss this with you.

Well, Elaine could hear the sound of nails on a keyboard. Miss Wilson, let’s see—can you come in next week? It looks like I have one or two mornings available.

Yeah, I can.

Listen, do you want to provide the information we will need—or would you like to actually work on the project with me?

Oh I would be more than honored to work with you! Elaine said enthusiastically. I’ve read lots of articles about you, and I love all the ads that you do and everything."

Well, thank you for that. Listen, what about next Thursday at ten o’clock?

Just a minute I have to check with my mom. After a few seconds, Elaine was back on the phone and their first meeting was set up.

As she put the phone down, Elaine could not contain her excitement. She went to share the conversation with her parents. Willie and Helen were understandably impressed.

Did Miss Harper understand what you were saying? Her dad asked halfway joking, as they were in the family room.

Elaine responded that Josephine appeared to have no problem understanding her. She was excited.

Elaine could hardly wait for Thursday morning to arrive. She had seen Josephine’s photo in the newspaper but only once on television. Yet she felt she would be able to recognize her anywhere. Catherine Peterson, the club’s director, met Elaine and her mother Helen at Josephine’s office. They sat in the lobby waiting for Josephine to arrive.

When she walked through the door, Elaine recognized her immediately—tall and slender with a beautiful Afro. She saw the three and walked over to where they were sitting and offered her hand. Good morning, I’m Josephine Harper.

Hello, Miss Harper, I’m Catherine Peterson, director of the Disabled Club. This is Mrs. Wilson and I think you’ve already met her daughter Elaine by phone.

Good morning, Miss Harper, Helen said pleasantly.

Good morning, Mrs. Peterson and Mrs. Wilson. Josephine then placed her hand on Elaine, who was shaking, and said in a warm voice: Good morning, Elaine.

Elaine knew that before people got to know her, they usually assumed she was retarded. She could tell this by the way people talked down to her.

Hel… Hel… Hello, Miss… Miss Ha… Harper. Elaine could not get the words to come out. She did have a speech impediment; but this stuttering was something new. Elaine was not a shy person, but found herself little embarrassed.

It is nice to meet you. Now let me go, get settled, and see what we can do.

A few minutes later Elaine, Helen, and Catherine were shown to Josephine’s office, which was in a suite of offices. Kathy got them some coffee. Elaine noticed another African-American woman at a desk. She had an Afro somewhat like Josephine’s; however, this lady was lighter in complexion. She also had a big smile, which Elaine loved.

Good morning. I’m Beatrice James, she said.

Good morning, the three ladies said together.

Once the door was closed Josephine said, Okay, tell me what you want.

Well— Catherine began.

Josephine interrupted No, I want to hear what Elaine has in mind.

Elaine took a deep breath and she became aware that a bit of drool was about to form. She quickly dried it with a napkin.

Handicapped people are just people with special problems or needs. Sometimes the problem happens during birth or it may develop later in life.

Okay, Josephine said carefully.

There are many different kinds of handicaps. I gave you an example of your glasses.

Yes, you did and that has been on my mind since you said that.

Some handicaps are not as noticeable, such as people with a heart condition or a bad knee, Catherine added.

Right, I see, Josephine said in agreement.

So what we want to do is make people think about this.

I didn’t understand; I am sorry, Elaine.

We want people to become aware of the different kinds of disabilities.

Not only that, we want the city government to become more aggressive in enforcing public places to be more accessible for disabled people, Catherine added.

Such as providing ramps for wheelchairs and lowering the public phones to a height that will allow people to reach them from wheelchairs, Helen interjected.

Handrails, don’t forget about those, Elaine said quickly.

All right, I heard that Elaine! Josephine laughed.

Once Josephine got the idea of what Elaine wanted, she could put together ideas quickly in her mind as they talked. Josephine said that first, the local paper would need to do a story, and so they would have to create one. Catherine toyed with the idea of a public campaign to put a ramp in at City Hall. Elaine wanted to see more exposure on the local talk shows.

I agree. Josephine said. The three of you need to go on and talk.

Me? Elaine exclaimed.

Yes. Josephine responded.

Okay, but I don’t know if they will understand me.

Don’t worry about that, people need to see your courage, high self-esteem, and most of all, that spunk you have.

During the next couple of weeks Elaine and Josephine talked to each other on the phone many times. Catherine worked with the people at City Hall, which was a battle to say the least. There were stories in the newspapers and on the radio about people with different disabilities. Josephine arranged for Catherine, Helen, and Elaine to go on a local TV show. For the first time, Elaine saw how distorted her face was and she realized how she looked to other people. She did not feel the way that she looked. She looked like a freak to herself, however, she did not allow her looks to stop her—she had things she wanted to accomplish.

Another member of the club did the public service announcement, and Helen and Elaine took it to the office. Josephine was not there. However, Beatrice greeted them and explained to them that there was a special way that the television station had to do the spot and that she would make sure that it was done correctly. The ramp was unveiled on July 3 with media coverage. A plaque was placed over the ramp. Catherine and Elaine took a picture with the mayor.

Elaine and Josephine stayed in touch after that summer.

Elaine had many adjustments to make over the next few years. Setbacks reared their ugly head, but they did not stop her.

She was now in junior high school, and her homeroom teacher had just told her that she would go out to regular classes the next school year. Mrs. Jackson was a very strict African-American teacher. She yelled at a drop of a hat it seemed to her. She told her that the typewriter would be her writing tool. When she later looked back on her years with the lady, she had mixed feelings about Mrs. Jackson. However, for that summer she was going to have fun working with Josephine Harper.

Once she was thrown out of a typing class and Mrs. Jackson, her homeroom teacher was not too nice about how she told her. There poor Elaine was crying, and Mrs. Jackson was not helpful or reassuring at all. Elaine wanted more than anything to go to college. She could just see herself in a broom factory, not doing what she felt that she could. Elaine knew that she was different, but somehow she felt that she could do what she wanted. Helen and Willie would mention the crying incident from time to time. This made Elaine very uncomfortable. Mrs. Jackson was very strict when it came to Elaine and her using the typewriter.

When Elaine attended Ross High School, Mrs. Nelson was her homeroom teacher. By this time, Elaine had discovered that in some cases the typewriter slowed her down. Mrs. Nelson decided to invite different people to the school to show them how the new special education program was working. One of the people she invited was Mrs. Jackson, Elaine’s teacher from junior high. Elaine had an English test during fifth period. Elaine, Mrs. Jackson, and Mrs. Nelson had a few minutes to talk before the bell rang. As the three were talking, Mrs. Nelson asked Elaine whether she needed the typewriter. Elaine panicked. She knew that she did not need the typewriter; however, she felt that Mrs. Jackson would yell, so she told Mrs. Nelson yes, she did need the typewriter. When she was taking the test, her English teacher saw that the typewriter was slowing her down and told her to write by hand. She was relieved and glad to do so.

As she grew older, Elaine began to resent people, except her parents, telling her what she could or could not do. After graduation, she went away to a special junior college. It was the first time that she was away from home. The one classroom college was made especially for the disabled. There were people there to help the students bathe, dress, and eat. Elaine took pride in the fact that she was the only person that could bathe, dress, and feed herself.

Elaine could do anything that she needed to do. There were certain tasks, however, that required fine motor movement which proved to be very difficult for her. Cutting her food was one of those things. Her family and friends did that small task for her automatically, but the attendant assigned to her angered Elaine by not wanting to cut her pancakes or put cream and sugar in her coffee. True, she could do these things, but more often than not, when she did them alone, she made a mess. Therefore, Elaine did not care to be told by strangers what she could do or could not do. She knew that better than they did.

*     *     *

When she was twenty-two, Elaine enrolled at Texas Southern University, one of the major universities in the city. Willie and Helen were both graduates of TSU and had affection for the school. While there, Elaine majored in advertising with a minor in journalism. One of the things about her speech is that it is unique and unforgettable. In one of her classes, Beatrice James was a guest speaker. Elaine remembered Beatrice from the time that she had worked with Josephine. Beatrice was now working in another advertising firm, which published a small bi-weekly community newspaper. After Beatrice talked to the class, Elaine spoke with her. Although Beatrice did not remember how she knew Elaine, Beatrice knew that she had heard Elaine’s voice before. Elaine did her report on Beatrice and in the process, discovered many different things. One of these was the fact that every year the firm where Beatrice worked sponsored an activity, Be Thankful for Thanksgiving. This was a campaign where people donated food for the hungry on the Friday before Thanksgiving. The drop-off points were post offices all around town, with the primary collection facility being the main post office downtown. Elaine didn’t know how the food drive got started but was pleased that Beatrice was just practicing her Christian faith. The food drive was meant to be something done in the company, however, it became a city-wide annual event. After working with Beatrice, she grew to love Beatrice and to respect her work in advertising as well as the community.

During her research, Elaine found that Beatrice was raised by her mother. Beatrice never mentioned her father, and Elaine never asked. Beatrice had a younger sister, Judy. They grew up in Houston’s Fourth Ward. A neighborhood started in the 1800s by newly freed slaves. While Beatrice had grown up in extreme poverty, she was not ashamed of her situation. She was rich when it came to self-esteem. Beatrice attended Prairie View University on a scholarship, and she majored in journalism.

Beatrice said that she had an uncle that she loved as a child; however, for some strange reason he disappeared from her life when she was sixteen. Elaine noticed an uneasiness as Beatrice spoke about her uncle. Beatrice said that she had not thought of him since his disappearance. However, when Elaine asked her about her childhood, her uncle ran across her mind. She remembered that when she was about five her uncle made her feel special because he filled the void caused by not having a father. He was her mother’s youngest brother and was Beatrice’s favorite uncle. They spent many hours together. However, when he disappeared from her life, strangely, she did not miss him. Beatrice confessed to Elaine that she could not understand why she never missed him. How strange it is that we never talk about him, she said sadly.

Josephine came to another class of Elaine’s and spoke: Elaine will worry you to death. She will call at the wrong time, but she gets things done, and I admire her for that.

There were not many things that Elaine did not like about herself. However, because of her disability, she felt that she had to prove herself. Elaine’s family on both sides, supported her all of the way and she was always grateful for that. It was to people that did not know her that she wanted to prove she could do whatever she wanted or needed to do.

For her internship, Elaine worked in Josephine’s office. She had to produce three commercials for cerebral palsy. It was fun and rewarding.

After she graduated from college, Elaine began to look for a job. The first place she looked was at a new firm in town, one of only a few that were owned totally by African-Americans. Daniel and Naomi Calloway former New Yorkers, were just setting up the firm. Elaine had an interview with Naomi. She had her resume and three letters of recommendation. Two were from her professors and one was from Josephine. All three of the letters stated that she could handle anything that was put to her mentally when it came to advertising. However, due to her physical disability, she did need a little help in putting the idea on paper. Elaine did her best work on the computer. Naomi had Elaine’s materials before the interview, and she was not sure about hiring someone that could not physically do the work. After all, this was a new business in a new town. Would it be fair to the other employees? However, the campaigns that Elaine did in college had been impressive.

Beatrice James had resigned from the firm where she was working to come to work for Naomi and Daniel. Beatrice wanted to see this firm work because African-Americans owned it. Just before her interview with Elaine, Naomi met with Beatrice.

I am impressed with her work, but there are things she cannot do like talk on the phone.

Yes, she can. If people are patient, they can understand her. Look, when she called Josephine she got her message across. I thought about her being a part of this firm last night. I can see God’s work in her and I would trust her with my life. She has the zest, zeal, and the self-esteem to do what she wants.

Yeah, but what about the work?

Look, you said that we are going to be working as a team. There are some things that I cannot do.

I don’t know, but I will keep an open mind, Naomi said reluctantly.

Elaine’s appointment was for eleven o’clock. She was there at ten-thirty and was dressed in a business suit. Elaine was so nervous that she stumbled and fell. Daniel was watching Elaine from his office and went to help her up. He also was not sure about hiring a disabled person. Would she be falling all the time? Nope, this is not going to work, Daniel seemed to say to himself as he walked to help Elaine.

Are you okay? Let me get your purse for you.

Yes, I fall all the time. When I was little, they taught me how to fall without hurting myself.

Are you sure?

Yes.

Come on in, I want you to meet Mrs. Calloway.

Hello, Mrs. Calloway. I am sorry, I didn’t mean to frighten you.

No, don’t worry about that. Are you sure you are okay?

Yes.

Do you know that this is my husband and that we own the firm?

Yes, I do. I read the write-up that Beatrice James did on you a couple of months ago.

She is a lovely person, Naomi replied.

She also has a great big, beautiful smile, Elaine responded.

I love that smile also, Daniel agreed.

After Daniel closed the door Naomi sat behind her desk and began to ask Elaine about herself. Naomi decided to ask: Do you ever ask why me?

Yes, when I am frustrated.

I am sorry but I need you to repeat that last word, Naomi said calmly. After the second time, Elaine spelled it for Naomi.

F-R-U-S-T-R-A-T-E-D.

Frustrated, I am sorry.

I am used to this. I only get mad when people lie to me and respond in the wrong way. When my grandmother died and I went back to school, a girl asked me if I had a good weekend. When I told her that I went to my grandmother’s funeral and she responded that that was nice, I repeated it and she felt bad.

Yeah, I bet.

"My favorite scripture is John 9:1-4. As Jesus walked along he saw a man who had been born blind. His disciples asked him: Teacher, whose sin was it that caused him to be born blind? His own or his parents’ sin? Jesus answered: His blindness had nothing to do with his sins or his parents sin. He is blind so that God’s power might be seen at work in him. I was a teenager when I first heard that. When I get frustrated, I remember that scripture."

Daniel and Beatrice were in the next office and could hear the conversation. Daniel’s doubts were slowly becoming questions. How could he make this work? One thing was Elaine needed a handrail so that she could come in and out of the office. Daniel and Naomi were Christians, and though they brought that to their firm every other word was not God or Lord. Daniel and Naomi, like Beatrice, practiced their faith by doing for others. As Daniel listened to Elaine’s strained voice, he found he could follow her speech pattern.

She will need a computer to work on, Daniel said slowly and in a low voice.

We can make this work; she has the mind, Beatrice responded in the same low voice. We are going to be working in teams so no one person will be working on an account alone.

Right, quipped Daniel.

Naomi was thinking as she talked with Elaine. Each word was clearer than the word before. Beatrice’s words kept dancing around in her head. I can see the Lord’s work in her. Naomi, like Josephine did years before, could see the spunk in Elaine. She asked Elaine: As you know, we are new and we don’t even have a slogan yet. Off the top of your head what theme or slogan would you suggest?

Calloway ads are so good that they are music to your ears. I would use the fact that Calloway is a famous name in the music world.

I like that idea. Will you please excuse me?

Naomi stepped next door to where Daniel and Beatrice were. Beatrice started to walk out, but Naomi said: No, this is a big decision, we are the only staff and this will not be easy. I have a good feeling about her and those letters support her.

I am willing. Anybody will be a risk, Beatrice said softly.

I think that we now have four on staff, Daniel said with a laugh. Naomi smiled, agreeing with her husband and without saying a word; she went back to where Elaine was waiting in her office.

Welcome aboard. You are the second person to join the staff.

I got the job! I got the job, Mrs. Calloway? Elaine could not believe her ears.

Yes, and I want you to call me Naomi. Please come with me. Elaine got up from the chair and followed her new boss. You already know my husband, and you know Beatrice James.

Beatrice, I’m working here now! Elaine said in an excited voice. Elaine could not believe her luck.

Yes I know, Beatrice said as she went to hug Elaine.

Chapter 2

Major Campaign Launch

D uring the next couple of weeks Naomi and Daniel hired Shara Lawson, a layout person, and Steve Long, a writer. Those first months at the Calloway Firm were hard as the staff learned their roles and how to work as a team. If a person brought an account in, then that person was the chair for that account and they got what they needed from whoever could perform that task.

Elaine brought in the Youth Community City account. She produced a commercial that won an award for the firm. During the first year, Elaine watched as her colleagues got accustomed to being around her. At times she felt that Beatrice was a little annoyed with her, or perhaps Naomi wasn’t pleased with something she did. However, Naomi got mad with all staff members sometimes. The office atmosphere was like that of family and Elaine loved every minute that she was there.

Elaine, Beatrice, and Shara shared an office. Elaine soon realized that Shara was a very shy person, while Beatrice loved to have her privacy. The three of them read the Bible and meditated often.

One day Shara and Elaine were talking as they ate their lunch. You know, Elaine, I was a little afraid of you when I began to work with you.

I know, when I first came here I was frightened that I would mess up my first week.

Yeah.

I know what African-Americans go through when they have to be better than their White counterparts.

Yes, it is crazy. Elaine was trying to cut up a piece of meat. It’s sort of tough: here let me try. After a couple of seconds, Gee Elaine, this meat is very tough. Even I am having a hard time.

Yeah.

Just then Steve dropped a whole plate of food and Elaine laughed hard. Steve, I’m the only person allowed to spill things around here.

Excuse me Lainie girl, he said jokingly. The whole lunchroom was laughing hard.

In her office, Daniel and Naomi could hear the laughter of their staff. Daniel was now embracing his wife as they talked about the firm. God sent every one of them to us, like children, Naomi said lovingly.

Yes, Daniel said quietly as he stood over his wife.

I only wish that—

Angelique could have lived to be with us.

If I had only known what was happening to her.

Shhh.

She didn’t think that I would have understood.

"Honey, you couldn’t talk about it for years. She needed a way out.

Just then the secretary told Daniel that a client was waiting for him, and he went to the meeting.

For the next two years, the Calloway Firm pulled in account after account and began to win one award after another. Different members of the team would go out of town periodically to work with clients throughout the country, and they were building a good reputation. Elaine became known as a person who was thorough, confident, creative, and above all, trustworthy.

One day in May, Mrs. Alice Stevens called and Beatrice took the call. Beatrice James, may I help you?

Yes, I work with the disabled in Washington, D.C., and we need a campaign to raise money for a new hospital.

Beatrice knew immediately that Elaine was the right person for the job. Mrs. Stevens, I am going to turn you over to Elaine Wilson. You may not be able to understand her, but she can understand you, and I will stay on the line.

Elaine Wilson, Elaine said as plainly and professionally as she could.

Yes, Miss Wilson, we need a campaign to do two things. One to raise money for a barrier-free hospital, and two to raise awareness of the needs of the disabled.

What kind of budget are we talking about?

Two million for the campaign, plus expenses. Can you come to D.C.? Elaine was excited at the idea of such a big account. She felt confident that she could do the work. However, Naomi had never asked her to work with an out-of-town client. Elaine knew why, and this did not bother her. Elaine thought that Helen could take her; however, she remembered how busy her mother was going to be that summer.

Can you hold, please? When Elaine said that, Beatrice also pushed her hold button.

Beatrice, I can’t go out of town by myself and Mother is working this summer.

Elaine, I will be second chair and go with you.

I can’t ask you to do that.

Elaine, hold on. Beatrice went back on the line and said, Mrs. Stevens, something came up here in the office. Please give me your number. Beatrice took the number and hung up to talk with Elaine.

Look, you can do the work.

That is not the problem. This is in Washington, D.C. and I can’t go by myself.

I will be the second chair and take you to Washington.

No, I can’t ask you to do that.

Naomi heard the conversation and motioned for Beatrice to step inside her office: Beatrice, I know that Elaine can handle herself pretty well, but we do not know about her personal needs, like if she can bathe herself and I can’t expect you to do that.

Look, I know that Elaine bathes herself and dresses herself, and even cleans herself when she goes to the restroom. She will need a little assistance. We do it all the time, and don’t mind, do we?

No, she is a part of us. I have not regretted hiring her.

Her parents have to let her go sometimes. I think she deserves the job. She has pulled her weight. Beatrice spoke in a firm voice because she wanted Elaine to handle that account.

Okay, let me talk with her mother.

At home that night, Elaine and her parents talked about the responsibility that Beatrice was taking on. They decided it was too much, and that Elaine would do what she could do in Houston and let Beatrice or Shara do the work in Washington. When Beatrice called that night she told them that Elaine did not ask her. She volunteered, and that was something she wanted to do for her friend and colleague. Beatrice changed their minds.

The next morning Elaine got started on one of the biggest projects in the firm’s three-year history. Mrs. Stevens sent all the information that she needed. She had never been the chair of such a large account, and was excited and nervous at the same time. Neither Daniel nor Naomi ever overrode a decision unless it was necessary. They trusted people to do the work. Their staff was very creative, and for them to micromanage every decision would limit productivity, and possibly delay revenue flow.

Shara, Beatrice, and Elaine grew even closer during the next three months. Shara saw Elaine as a person whose capabilities far outweighed her limitations. Shara did all the layout work. Sometimes, however, when Elaine asked her to redo something, she did it without complaint. Elaine did not abuse her power. Nobody did, and that made the team concept work. When Naomi or Daniel did override something they called the team member into their private office to discuss their concerns with that team member. If they did give a direct order, it was usually to a secretary or a clerk.

Elaine and Beatrice were scheduled to leave on Saturday after Labor Day. During that week, many hours were spent working on the campaign launch—a harvest ball that was to kick off the disability awareness campaign. Beatrice was in charge of the launch. This was only one part of the campaign. Although Elaine was in charge, she told Beatrice to handle it. However, Beatrice discussed every major decision with Elaine. Elaine and Beatrice went shopping for their ball gowns together; it was fun and exciting. On the Thursday before they left, Naomi called them into her office.

Well ladies, are you excited?

No, Elaine said laughing.

Stop teasing, Elaine, you have been on a high for weeks.

Yeah, Beatrice chuckled.

Well, I am trying to get myself to calm down.

On a serious note, I did a couple of things that will make me feel better. First, Daniel and I arranged for you guys to have a limo around the clock.

WOW! Beatrice and Elaine said together.

But why, Naomi, I thought that we used taxis? Elaine asked.

Because you are so independent, I want Beatrice to feel comfortable when you need to go somewhere by yourself. Look, we all know you here and we protect you as well as each other. I know that you don’t want Beatrice with you every minute.

I am not a kid.

No you are not. But, you do have a disability and I’m not trying to make you different. I am just being a mother hen. I am doing this for myself too. Please understand that.

I did not ask for that.

No, Beatrice, you didn’t and perhaps I am being overprotective by all of this, but, Elaine, you are different and I want to be sure that I am not asking too much of you or Beatrice.

I understand. So because I am disabled I get to ride in a limo. Well, that’s not bad, Elaine laughed as she thought about it.

And another thing, at the hotel the staff doctor knows about you.

Naomi, I didn’t ask for— Beatrice started.

No you didn’t, Beatrice.

I—I—, Elaine started but Naomi stopped her before she could get it together.

Humor me, a special person told me how unique you are. This is a big account for the firm. Your rooms are adjoining. Your mother assures me that you can do everything—almost everything—by yourself; Beatrice is just your backup. This is the same thing with the hotel doctor.

Thank you Naomi, Elaine was filled with emotion. There was a knock on the door and the rest of the team members joined them for a moment of prayer, and they sang How Great Thou Art. Elaine hugged Shara—she was like a sister and she wished that she was going with the two of them.

Beatrice and Elaine knew that trip would forever change their lives, but they did not know in what fashion.

*     *     *

Early Saturday morning, by the time the alarm clock went off, Elaine was up and getting dressed. Helen had packed her clothes so that she could do everything by herself. She told Elaine to allow Beatrice to help her with her hair, if she offered it, and to allow Beatrice to watch her get in and out of the bathtub. Elaine agreed to do that because she realized that she did need a little help. She put her money in her purse. The airline tickets were in the firm’s name and Beatrice was keeping all those things with her. Elaine had all the papers that related to the campaign. Helen and Willie were nervous, but happy, as they drove their daughter to the airport.

When they arrived, Beatrice and her sister, Judy, had just pulled up a few minutes before and Beatrice’s things were already on the cart to go into the airport. Elaine indicated to the skycap that she and Beatrice were together, and he put her things with Beatrice’s. They kissed their families goodbye and headed into the airport.

While Beatrice and Elaine stood in line, Elaine looked at all the people and wondered what part of the world they were headed to or where they were coming from. She was always like that. In elementary school she studied history and geography, and realized that people were the same all over the world; it was the cultures that were different. When they got to the counter the worker asked, Miss James, do you need an electric cart for her? Elaine got angry because the tone of the man’s voice told her that he assumed that she was retarded.

Yes, thank you, Beatrice answered.

Honey, we will get a cart for you. Can you stand right over there for me? The man said in a slow voice which irritated Beatrice and Elaine, but they did not say a thing. They got on the cart and rode to the gate. Once they were at the gate, Beatrice checked in and made sure that the airline knew Elaine was disabled and that she needed a cart or a wheelchair at the airport in Washington.

It was only a few minutes before they would board the airplane. They boarded right away because of Elaine’s disability. Once they were on the plane, Elaine buckled herself up and prepared for take off. When the stewardess came around for soft drinks, Beatrice asked, Can you put an extra cup on the bottom for her, please?

Sure.

When lunch was served, Beatrice cut up the meat, buttered the bread, and did whatever she thought Elaine could not handle, and she did so in a loving manner. Elaine thanked her, as she always did, and enjoyed the food. The rest of the flight they slept. When they got to Washington, the skycap was waiting with a wheelchair for Elaine. A chauffeur was holding a sign that read Elaine Wilson and Beatrice James. When they got to the gate, Beatrice went to the chauffeur while Elaine sat in the wheelchair. As the four of them walked to the baggage claim area there was small talk. Once the bags were ready to go, Elaine got out of the wheelchair while Beatrice discreetly put a couple of dollars in the man’s hand as he went away.

Once outside, Elaine and Beatrice saw the big, pretty, red, limo, which would be theirs for the next two weeks.

Wow! We are stepping out in big stuff, Girl, Beatrice said as the man opened the limo door.

Yeah, when I say that there are advantages to being handicapped, this is definitely one of them.

I heard that and you got that right.

As they rode through the city, Beatrice and Elaine were unusually quiet as they looked at the beautiful sights. The Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, and the White House were some of the things that they saw. It was the beginning of fall, and the colors showed it. It was not like Houston where one had to look at the calendar to see what season it was. It was much cooler than when they left home. Elaine liked to look at the different license plates. When she was home and she saw different ones, she always tried to see where the car was from. As Elaine asked questions, she noticed that the driver called her by her last name, and answered her just as he did Beatrice, which made her respect him even more. When the driver did not understand the question, he asked Elaine to repeat it.

As they were pulling up to the beautiful hotel, the chauffeur said, Okay, Ladies, this is how this works. I am your driver, Collins, while you are here. When you need me, call the bellhop, and within five minutes I will be waiting for you in front of the hotel. Once you call me, don’t worry about keeping me waiting. I work for you; therefore; I move when you move.

Okay, thank you, Elaine and Beatrice said together in excited voices.

When they got to the desk, the clerk said: We have adjoining rooms but they are not equipped for the disabled. The one we have is down the hall.

That is not a problem. I want to be next to Miss James.

Are you sure? Beatrice asked.

Yes.

Once they got to their rooms, Beatrice and Elaine unpacked their things and settled in. Afterwards they had a cup of coffee in Elaine’s room.

Elaine, Partner, please don’t give out our room numbers to anybody, not even Mrs. Stevens, Beatrice said.

Why, Beatrice? Elaine asked.

I like my privacy, and when I am working like this, my room is the only place I can relax and have control.

Sure, I know sometimes at work you like to be by yourself; everybody knows that.

Am I that bad about it?

No, you are who you are. We as people need different things and that is what you need.

Just then there was a knock on the door.

"Did you order