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"He needs to drink more regularly, too," said Greg, distrustfully. Adam tried to ignore Greg's agitated looks and remarks.

"Of course," answered Louie, a bit hurt that someone was questioning whether or not he would do his job.

"How long have you been a nursing assistant?" asked Adam, trying to gain Greg's confidence in the new man.

"This is my first day," smiled Louie. "I started out as junior volunteer in the ER when I was a teenager. That's when I knew God wanted me to use my life to help others."

"God always knows what's best for us. You sound like you enjoy your work," Adam smiled, taking a quick look in Greg's direction. Greg had been listening. His face had softened and his demeanor was relaxing.

"I enjoy seeing the look on a person's face when I help them," answered Louie. "It makes me think that God has a reason for why I'm on this earth," he said thoughtfully.

"When you love God with all your heart, loving your neighbor as yourself comes a lot easier, doesn't it?" agreed Adam, happy to find someone who was at least thinking in the Right direction.

"I hadn't thought about it just that way, but you're right. Without love it would all just be a bunch of worthless good deeds, wouldn't it?" replied Louie.

"Though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing," quoted Adam.

"I'll be extra careful with your father, Greg," said Louie as they turned to leave. Greg bowed his head, ashamed of what he had said earlier that evening.

"I was wrong about you guys," Greg said, shaking Louie's hand. "I apologize. I'm sure you'll do your job as best as you can." Louie thanked him and returned to his work, his spirits lifted and encouraged.


Before leaving, Adam stuck his head through the door of Jerome's office.

"Chess tonight?" asked Adam. Jerome nodded his assent. Two minutes after Adam had left, Jerome's phone rang. Since he was busy, it rang five more times. Realizing that the caller was not going to give up, Jerome reluctantly picked up the receiver on the sixth ring.

"Mullen-Overholt Nursing Home, Jerome speaking," answered Jerome, impatient to get back to work.

"Jerome? It's me, Chuck," said the caller in a timid voice.

"Well, well. So I finally hear from you."

"Jerome, I want to come home," said Charlton, pleadingly.

"Why?" asked Jerome, coldy.

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