EPISODE 12: THE BOARD'S DECISION
245 Words
“All in favor of shutting down the support group?” Pastor Mike asked.
2 hands went up.
“All opposed?”
3 hands. Including Pastor Mike.
The gavel hit the table. “Motion denied. Support group continues.”
Ana exhaled. She didn’t know she was holding her breath.
Mrs. Bennett closed her eyes. “Thank You, Jesus.”
“But,” Pastor Mike said. “Conditions. Monthly reports. And no ‘negative topics’ without a counselor present.”
Ana nodded. “Yes, sir. We can do that.”
Robert stood up from the back. Head deacon. Shaking.
“I’d like to volunteer,” Robert said. “As counselor liaison. I... I’ve been to counseling. For my drinking.”
The board stared.
Robert lifted his chin. “Galatians 6:2. Bear one another’s burdens. That’s what this group does. Let me bear it with them.”
Pastor Mike studied him. Then nodded. “Approved, Robert.”
Meeting adjourned.
People filed out. Whispers. Looks.
Ana stayed seated. Shaking.
Mrs. Bennett sat beside her. “You did it, dear.”
“I didn’t,” Ana whispered. “God did. And you did.”
Daniel walked past. Stopped. Looked at Ana.
“Thank you,” he said. “For staying.”
Then he left.
Ana looked at Mrs. Bennett. Both crying now.
“One down,” Mrs. Bennett said. “A thousand to go.”
Outside, the snow kept falling on Cedar Falls.
Inside, the basement was still open.`;
- Writer
