Spring Break
Chapter 28
By Rachel76m
Edited by Don Kaufman

On Thursday of the Spring Holiday I get the worst call in my life.

The department secretary comes to me after my last class at 2 P.M..

“Follow me, Richard.”

“Yes ma'am.”

She leads me to the department office. She opens the door to the office. I walk inside and sit down looking at the Department Head, Dr. Weldon.

“I don't know how to say this. I remember that your parents like to go on vacations during the spring and summer. Well, they took your brothers with them this time.”

“I know, I was told they wanted to do something special with them this time. They told me they were going to drive there this time. Is there something wrong?” I start to get worried when I see his face becomes really stoic and calm.

“They didn't drive there, Richard. They took a plane in a small puddle jumper to a small town they liked to visit. Well, it seems the plane went down in a thunderstorm and there are no survivors from the crash. I am sorry Richard.”

“No, no, it can't be. They said they would drive there. You mean I am all alone now?”

“I am afraid so Richard. Do you have other relatives that you can get support from?”

“We don't have many relatives that are still alive. Most of our relatives didn't have children to be cousins to us.”

“I am sorry to hear that. Are there any close friends you can call on?”

“There were a few, but they moved to another state all together. My parents did not keep in contact with them after we moved here. (I start to breathe a bit heavier now and starting to panic.) What am I to do? I need help Maker!

“I think you better get to the nurses office now. They might be able to give you something to calm you down. Come to me tomorrow and we can discuss the next steps. I know you need to see to the burials. I'm going to have a talk with your instructors and see what we can do about delaying some of your classes until you recover. We do not want to lose you. You are very sharp and a bright student.”

“Thank you, and I will keep in contact. I have most of the class work done this semester, it just a matter of finishing the final computer project and the finals to take for the grades sir. I am about two weeks ahead of schedule.”

“You must have worked very hard during Spring Break Richard.”

“I did Dr. Weldon. Hopefully that will give me time to take care of this. Thank you again. I am heading to the nurses station as you requested.”

I get up and shake hands with him. I head over to the nurses station and explain the situation. They become sad of the details when they hear it from me. They give me a sedative to help sleep tonight and tomorrow night. I have to call home. No, I have to call our family lawyer and decide what steps are needed.

I call the family lawyer, Anna Dawson on my cell phone from the nurses’ station.

“I'm glad you called Richard. I was the one who sent the message to the University. I sent you a plane ticket to take from Raleigh to Charlotte. I don't want you driving, taking the bus or train to get here. I'll meet you at the airport.”

“When should I get it?”

“I had to over night it. You should receive it tomorrow morning at the Mail Station on campus. Take the Saturday morning flight. I know it is a rush, but time is of importance. How much time can you give?”

“I think I can give two weeks. I worked really hard during Spring Break to get the homework done. All that is left is finishing the final project in a computer course and finals are the last week in April.”

“That's good. Two weeks should do it. We'll have the funerals Saturday next week.”

“Okay, I'll see you Saturday morning.” I close my cell phone and put it in the holder. I walk back to the dorm building, but I make a detour to the garden and sit on the concrete bench there. I see the two butterflies land on the flowers.

“We're sorry for your loss Richard.”

“Why? They said they would drive there. But they chose to fly instead. Something happened to change their minds. What was it?”

“We don't know Richard.”

I look at the garden around me. Then the butterflies flutter off the flowers. They come near to me. I hold really still as one of them comes near my face. It lands on my nose with its wings moving up and down. The second butterfly lands on my shoulder. They both whisper to me.

“You were chosen for a reason. You have the scent of the unicorns on you. You are very special in the Maker's plans. Remember that always.”

“I will try really hard friends.”

“I know right now you feel alone.”

“We see it every day ourselves. The fairies have been watching humanity every day. To quote a title of a movie, we have seen the good, bad and the ugly. We must have hope that the human race will be redeemed as the Maker has promised so long ago.”

“So I have read and been told in my studies.”

“Take the medicine tonight. It will help you sleep.”

“Yes friends.”

“We'll be here when you come back.”

“Thank you friends.”

Then the fairies take off from me. I stand up and walk back to my dorm room. Once I get inside, I see my room mate there.

“How are you doing Richard?” Then he sees my face. “You look really sad. What happened?”

“I am sad Bill. I just got word my parents and brothers are dead. They were killed in a plane crash going on a vacation.”

“I... I am sorry to hear that. How . . . how long will you be gone?”

“Two weeks. I'll be leaving this Saturday morning from the airport.”

“At least you were able to do all of the homework before this happened.”

“At least that Bill, the nurses gave me some pills to help sleep tonight and the next night.”

“Then I won't disturb you. You have a lot to do tomorrow.”

“Thanks Bill.” I walk into my room. I see the clock shows 4 P.M.. I open my cell phone to call Rav Shlomo.

“Hello. This is Rav Shlomo.”

“Hello Rav, this is Richard.”

“Are you all right?”

“Did the Maker warn you?”

“He told me there is a change in your life.”

“I just got word today my parents and my brothers are dead. They were killed in a plane accident in the mountains.”

“I... I....I'm so sorry to hear that Richard.”

“So am I Rav.”

“What happens next?”

“I just had a talk with our family lawyer. I'll be picking up a ticket tomorrow. I'll be leaving Saturday morning. I... I...”

“Disregard the Shabbat teaching on this Richard. This has high priority. Your lawyer already paid for it. So in that regard nothing went against the teaching.”

“Yes Rav. I'll be away for two weeks. I'll be back in time for the last two weeks of this semester.”

“Any plans for the summer?”

“I was going to take two classes this summer. But I think I will drop that idea.”

“That is best Richard. You need time to be with friends.”

“The only place I can think of is the mountain cabin. There are some family friends there. I think I will stay there all summer. Then come back to finish my senior year. My parents have already put the thought in my head to get my Masters while I'm here.”

“That's a worthwhile goal Richard. You know that is a good suggestion.”

“Yes it is Rav.”

“We'll keep you in our prayers here. Besides Ha Shem will let us know what is going on with you. You are too valuable to him. Remember that always.”

“I think he was trying to remind me of that already. Thank you for that confirmation.”

“You're welcome Richard.”

“If all goes well, I'll see you in a couple of weeks.”

“Take care Richard. Shalom Aleichem.”

“Aleichem Shalom Rav.”

I close the cell phone and put it on my desk. I go to the fridge in my dorm room. I take out a bottle of cold water. “I'll be in the common room watching TV Bill.”

“I understand Richard.” I hope I don't go through this soon in my life. I hope my family and relatives all live a long life.

I sit down in the chair. I use the remote to turn on the TV. I don't pay attention to what is shown on TV. I just let it drone in my head. I don't pay attention to the guys who walk in and pass me in the common room. I just stay quiet and let the noise become static in my head. Friends... where are you when I need you?

Richard, can you hear me?

I hear you Maker.

I know what you're trying to do. I'm sorry this happened to you. Hopefully you'll understand someday.

I'll probably will Maker. All I'm thinking about is who is on my short list of best friends. The first one is lost to me right now. There are some that are too far away.

I know Richard. Keep it together as you best you can. People are praying for you everyday.

Thank you Maker.

Without realizing it, I drank the whole bottle of water really slow until 7 P.M.. I then switch it to the Weather Channel. Then I see the sudden bloom of thunderstorms passing over the mountains along the weak front.

I told them to be careful of the Spring storms.

You told them Richard. When you get there, you'll find out what really happened.

Okay Maker. I'll wait until then. I'm going to bed now Maker.

I get up from the chair. I leave the controller there with another student who is watching the TV.

I walk into my dorm room. “See you in the morning Bill. I'm taking the pills. I hope it zonks me out until 9 A.M.. I'll set the alarm for it just in case. I have only one class tomorrow at 11 A.M..”

“I'll be quiet. Have a good night's sleep.”

“Thanks Bill.”

I walk to the sink to fill up the bottle again with water. I put it in the fridge.

I close the door. I change my clothes and get ready for bed. I take the bottle of pills and walk into the bathroom. I open the bottle and see four tablets in there. I take two of them with a cup of water. I close the bottle and take it with me back into my room. I place the pill bottle on the dresser.

I turn off the lights and get under the covers. It takes about a half hour before I finally fall asleep. I dream of being in a garden somewhere.

~~~000~~~

I see myself walking along a path in an immense garden with rolling hills. It seems familiar to me.

“I remember this place now. The Maker asked me to remember it.” I walk along the trail until I come to the benches. I sit down on one of them. I breathe the aroma of the flowers around me. I let it seep into me to fill me up. I look around and see the beauty of the place. Some tears come down the side of my face.

Then I see someone walking on a trail toward me. There are four butterflies flying around the man. As he comes closer, my memory tries to kick in. But I draw a blank. I wipe my face the best I can to look presentable.

He comes near to me. “Hello Richard.” He sits down on one of the benches. Three butterflies hover around for a short while. Then two of them land on his shoulders. The third one lands on his head. The fourth one flies around me a few times. Then it lands next to one of the butterflies on his shoulder.

“Hello sir. Do I know you? I don't think we have met before.”

“No, we haven't Richard. The Maker asked me to meet you and introduce myself to you. I have seen your work from up here. You have been chosen by the Maker to do great things.”

“So I have been told. What is your name?”

“My name is Caliber. These four butterflies are my fairies.”

“I met some fairies on another world.”

“So, you did meet my ancestors.”

“Ancestors? That means you . . . you’re . . . a unicorn?”

“That's right Richard. You may change my fairies.”

“Yes Caliber.”

Then each of the fairies change in a small flash of light. Then they appear as four fairies. Then the man changes to a unicorn in flash of light.

“How . . . who . . . what . . . when …. where?”

They smile at my stutters.

“As far as when and where, I was the last unicorn on Earth. I lived on a large island Northwest of Gallia. On the island there are three major areas. To the north are the highland and lowland clans.”

“To the west are the Cymry or Welsh as it is known today. The main area is called the Britons. There are other names, but they came later. It is now known as the United Kingdom today. There is another island to the Northwest called Eire.”

“So you have read your history. I'm impressed.”

“Thank you. I like to learn all I can. I like geography and maps. I'm afraid to ask how you were killed. I’m thinking of your horn.”

“Yes, they thought it had some magical use in those days. My mate was killed before she could bear another unicorn. Our deaths ushered in the Dark Ages.”

“I'm sorry to hear that Caliber.”

“That's okay. The Maker promised me the fairies I left behind will be okay as long as they stay hidden.”

“I just realized something here, Caliber. I have just met Avel and the other unicorns on Twainor. Now I'm meeting one of their decedents.”

“Yes, it is a high honor to see and touch the unicorns. We were asked to come here to comfort you Richard. The Maker told us to keep an eye on you up here. We are sorry for your loss.”

“Thank you Caliber. Caliber . . . that name sounds familiar.”

They smile. “Go on Richard. Think where you heard that name.”

“If I remember right. There was a story about a sword called Excalibur. It was thrust into a stone. It waited until a young boy came to pull it out. The one who would pull it out will be the first king of the Britons. That was about 600 years in our common era.”

“That is right Richard. That sword bore my name in remembrance of me.”

“That is about as mind numbing when I met Avel for the first time.”

“I'm sure it was Richard. Now to help you, I would like for you to lay down on the ground.”

“Okay Caliber.”

I get off the bench. I lay down on the ground. I look up at the beautiful sky. Then Caliber comes into view. The four fairies are now standing on my chest.

“You probably won't remember this when you wake up. However, you will feel the pain in your heart lifted and eased.”

“Yes Caliber.”

“Now close your eyes. Think of the members of your family, relatives and friends.”

“I have them in my mind.”

“Good. Keep thinking on them.”

What I don't see happening is Caliber breathing down my entire body. The fairies then take some flowers from the garden. They cover my body with them. Only my face is not covered.

I smell the wonderful aroma of the flowers all around me. I breathe it in deeply. I feel myself become totally relax and calm. The pain in my heart eases. I feel the love from the Maker permeate my entire body, soul and spirit. I feel comforted knowing everything will be okay. I just need to be patient and let the events unfold before me. Then I feel some tears come down my eyes. The emotions start to well up. Then the tears start to flow more readily down the side of my face.

“Cry Richard. Weep for your family. Let it all out.”

The fairies sing a song while I cry.

I bawl and cry my heart out. “Mom, dad! Mike and Kenny! I miss you already!” I continue to cry my heart out until I can't cry anymore. After some time I become quiet. I still hear the fairies singing near me.

I feel totally drained. Then I feel the comfort from the Maker upon me again. I smile when I feel my heart at ease.

“Take this experience with you Richard. Use this to remind yourself that everything will be okay.”

“I will Caliber.”

“It is time for you to go, Richard. You will see your family up here from time to time when you go to sleep, but not always.”

“I understand Caliber.”

I then start to sink below the ground.

“Is he the one Caliber?”

“Yes Richard is indeed the chosen one.”

“Then we give praise to the Maker the Earth will be redeemed.”

“It will take time to get the people's attention. They need to be taught again how to take care of Earth the right way.”

The four fairies sit on Caliber's back or head. Caliber walks down the path from the benches. Eventually they disappear from view among the hills.

~~~000~~~

I find myself floating downward. Soon I'm looking at the ceiling. I feel a wet pillow all around me. Thank you Caliber and fairies of Caliber. Thank you Maker. You deserve all my thanks and praise.

You're welcome Richard.

Then I hear the buzzer on my clock go off. It is 9 A.M. Friday.

I get up rested. I turn off the alarm. I take the tear stained pillow cover off the pillow. I drape it over the chair to dry out. I take another pillow cover to replace it on the pillow. When I exit my room, I see Bill has gone off to classes. I walk to the bathroom to take a hot shower. I get cleaned up and dressed for the day.

I take my backpack with me and my cell phone like I have done before. I lock the door and leave the dorm room. I walk to the cafeteria to have a complete breakfast. I'm surprised how much I eat. Once I'm done, I clean up and walk to my 11 A.M. class. The instructor is startled to see me there.

“I didn't expect you here Richard? Are you okay?”

“I had a good cry last night that helped a lot. I would like to sit in anyway.”

“Of course, I have no objection. I know you will be gone for the next two weeks.”

“Yes sir. That is true.” I sit down at a desk. The rest of the students begin to come in as usual.

The class went as normal discussing what the subject is about. He reviews some of the concepts as a refresher. I take my usual notes while in class. I already turned in the reports earlier in the week. When he gets done with the class, he makes an announcement to the class.

“Richard, do I have permission to tell them?”

The students look at me.

“You better tell them. It will explain my absence for the next two weeks.”

“Yes that is best Richard.”

The students look at the instructor.

“Yesterday, Richard just received word that his parents and two brothers were killed in a plane accident.”

“Gasp!”

“Oh no!”

“We're sorry for your lost.”

“I lost my parents early Richard. I know what your going through.”

“Thanks everyone. I'll be leaving on a plane tomorrow morning to my hometown. I'll be back in time for the last two weeks.”

“Are you going to be here for the summer term?”

“I don't think so Robert. I'm thinking of dropping those two classes so I can take care of myself.”

“I would too, Richard.”

“Class is dismissed students.”

“Yes sir.”

We all get up from our seats. Most of them come near me to hug me or shake my hands. I feel nothing exchanged with them. They try to give me some words of encouragement when they get near.

We slowly drift out of the class room. I take a walk to the Mail Station to pick up the package. I show my ID to the front desk. She turns around and walks back into the mail room. She comes back out with the priority envelope. I sign the card. She tears it off and hands the package to me. I leave the Mail Station.

I walk back to my department to speak to Dr. Weldon. I see him talking to the secretary. They look at me as I walk in.

“Richard, how are you doing?”

“I'm doing okay. I just received this package from my attorney. It contains the flight ticket to Charlotte. Charlottesville is on the outskirts of the city. I'll be leaving tomorrow morning.”

“That's good.”

“I don't think I'll be taking summer classes this time. My parents did express their interest that I continue on to earn a Master's Degree.”

“I understand Richard. We can talk more about this when you get back.”

“Yes sir. I'll see you in two weeks.”

We shake our hands together. I give a weak smile while he smiles back at me. I turn around and exit the building. I walk all the way to the garden for some privacy.

I tear open the package and remove the envelope and letter inside. I read the letter first from Anna.

Dear Richard,

I'm sorry for your loss. Your parents have been one of my favorite clients. I really enjoyed my time representing your father and filing his inventions. You are like him in some ways. You are bright and very smart.

The plane ticket is inside the envelope. Keep it safe. Leave your car at the dorm parking lot. It will be easier to take the bus from the campus to the airport.

We have a lot to do when you get here. We'll take it one day at a time. I have done this before Richard. I know what needs to be done. Sleep well tonight and have good dreams’ Richard. I'll see you Saturday morning.

Sincerely yours
Anna Dawson, JD
Attorney at Law
Charlottesville, NC

“Well, its time to pack up today. I'll be leaving tomorrow morning friends.”

“Take care Richard. Sleep well tonight.”

“I will friends.”

I get up from the garden bench. I walk back to my room and get my suitcase out. I put it on the bed. I start taking clothes and fold them up to fit neatly in the suitcase. I put the good suit and pants into the garment bag. I make sure both are tagged and have locks for the plane trip. I put my toiletry bag back together. I keep it on the dresser until the last-minute tomorrow morning. I put my chargers and digital camera in there as well. I take the battery out of the digital camera to be safe.

I walk out of the dorm room. I walk to a nearby restaurant to eat something decent. I decide on the favorite Italian restaurant where the students like to gather on Friday nights.

I walk inside and request a bar to sit by myself. I place my order for their toasted chicken Parmesan sub and drink. I watch TV the best I can while I eat. After eating my dinner, I pay my bill and tip. I walk back on campus. I decide to meander slowly along the sidewalks. The two butterflies follow me at a distance.

I mutter to myself in a low whisper. “I'm just getting my thoughts together friends.”

Well, this means no more family gatherings at the holidays, birthdays and anniversaries. I need to be around people. I don't want to live in a cubicle existence the rest of my life. Sigh . . . What’s going to happen to me now? I must make the effort to make a life. Life is too short. I can live to 80 if I do it right. The people on Twainor can live twice as long as that. If we lived that long here, I would get bored with one job. My mind doesn't work like that Maker.

No it doesn't Richard. Your mind is very active and creative. You'll need to keep your skills up to par. Learn some new things.

I'll definitely have to do that Maker. Well, its time for bed Maker. I'll be taking the pills tonight. Fortunately the plane leaves at 11 A.M.. I need to be at the airport by 9 A.M..

That will be enough time to get checked in Richard.

As I near the dorm building, I turn around to see the sunset. The sky has a beautiful set of colors to it. “Good night my friends. See you in two weeks.”

I turn around and walk back into my room. I change my clothes. I close the suit case and put it on the floor. I set the alarm for 7 A.M.. It takes a half hour to get there. I take my pills and get under the covers for a good night sleep.

~~~000~~~

I see that I'm walking down the path again in the Maker's flower garden. I sit down on one of the benches. I look around and see the beauty of the place.

Where's mom and dad? I thought for sure I would see them here by now.

Not yet Richard. I have someone else coming to meet you.

Okay Maker.

I stand up and look around the landscape. Then I see someone coming down the path toward me. There are two fairies flying around him. As he gets closer, I see he is a young man I don't recognize.

He walks up to me with a smile. We shake hands, then we give each other a bear hug. We sit down on the benches while we talk. The fairies land on some flowers for a short moment, then fly over to his shoulders and sit there to listen in.

“You are new to me. I just met Caliber the Unicorn up here last night. What is your name friend?”

“My name is David. The Maker asked me to come here and talk to you.”

“David? I know too many Davids’. That is a very common name.”

“Yes it is Richard. I lived on Earth long before you were born. My hometown is Bethlehem.”

“What? THE David, King of Israel?”

He smiles at me, “That's right Richard. We have a lot to talk about.”

“This is another high honor. I didn't expect this.”

The fairies giggle. David chuckle as well. “Probably not Richard. Caliber and I will be talking to you from time to time. We'll be giving advice on what you need to know. One of these days and years you will be tested and pushed into the limelight. You need to know what to do and how to remain calm.”

“I remembered some of your stories in the Chronicles. Before you were king, you were captured by the enemy.”

“Well, the enemy thought they could profit from me by being among them. They held me and my men several times when the fighting came too close. Eventually we were let go. That is one of the things I need to talk to you about.”

“Which is?”

“Your mind needs to learn how to remain calm when captured. You must rely on the Maker to rescue you. I'll give you some tips on how you can gain the advantage when it seems impossible.”

“Thank you David.”

“You're welcome Richard. The other advice I will give is how to interact with important people. You'll need to develop and train your senses to be sharper. Some of the people you will meet will be wolves in sheep's clothing.”

I smile when I hear that. “I have encountered a few bullies in my life time. I had some self-defense training to be more aware.”

“That's good for starters. You need to continue to take those lessons when the opportunity presents itself. There will be some other topics we'll talk about from time to time Richard. Some of it will be how to say the right words to thwart their agendas. Some of it will be how to speak to the common people so they can make the right decisions and not be afraid of their bad leaders and elect good leaders.”

“Right now I don't see a use for that David.”

“Not right now Richard. But you will someday in the future. I can see you're not ready yet. You still have some learning to do. You're just like me some ways, Richard. I was anointed first when I was young shepherd. I learned how to take care of the flocks and protect them from the lions. My encounter with Goliath taught me to trust in Ha Shem with my convictions. My time in King Shaul's court taught me about the politics of leadership and friends needed in those circles. My time with my men helped me understand leadership in an army until I was crowned. Each step in your life leads to something greater. All the while this is going on, I continued to write songs that spoke from the heart.”

“I sure don't see myself as king material right now.”

“You probably won't become a king, but you will be in a leadership position none the less. We'll take it step by step. You already learned some basic leadership skills in the Scouts. I wished more people would be involved in that organization. I wished we had something similarly in my time.”

“So do I, David. It is a great organization to learn a lot of skills needed in life.”

“Well, it's time for you to go. We'll talk from time to time.”

“Thank you David.”

We both stand up together. The fairies fly off from David's shoulder. They fly around us while we hug each other one more time. We smile at each other.

I then find myself sinking below the ground. I turn around and see myself flying back to Earth.

Then Caliber appears next to David in the garden.

“Do you think Richard's mind will be able to handle this Caliber?”

“I do David. He has the raw ingredients already. His mind is already reaching out to the impossible. His encounter on Twainor helped him to see that. Now we have to wait and see how he takes the next set of news when he meets Anna Dawson.”

“That will be interesting to watch.”

“I'll need to have a talk with his parents to know why he wasn't told about his special gift.”

“Maybe they were afraid what would happen next Caliber. They tried their best to protect him.”

“Now he has to learn how to protect himself better.”

“He needs to trust in the Maker that help will come David.”

“Yes he must when the trials come. Come my friends, let's go back to our loved ones.”

Caliber and David walk down the path. The fairies fly around them merrily. They sing a beautiful song to lift their spirits up. Then they disappear from view among the hills.

~~~000~~~

Soon I see my bed and where I'm sleeping. My eyes open as the dream fades from memory.

I get up from bed and look out the window. I see another gorgeous day.

We have another glorious day Maker. Thank you Maker for that visit from King David.

You're welcome Richard.

Then I hear the alarm buzzer go on behind me. I turn around and turn it off. I take my bath items to take a good hot shower. I get myself clean really good. I get myself dressed for the day and finish packing the suit case. I make sure my wallet, glasses, the plane ticket, keys, the cell phone and my comb are on me. I wear my sunglasses.

“See you in two weeks Bill.”

“See you Richard.”

I haul and carry the bags out of the dorm room. It is now 7:45 A.M.. I walk to the bus stop near the admin building. I have to wait ten minutes before it arrives. I get on the bus and pay the fare.

It takes about a half-hour to arrive at the airport. It takes about 15 minutes to wait in line. When it’s my turn, I check in at the carrier check in desk.

“It says here Mr. Moore, you're paid for a round trip.”

“Apparently my attorney has the return ticket.”

“Okay, that's fine. Checking in only two pieces?”

“Yes ma’am. I have no carry on.” I put the suit case and garment bag on the scale. I use my credit card to pay for the check in.

“Do you have a cell phone on you?”

“Yes I do. I intend to turn it off while in flight. I know this is a quick flight.”

“That's good. I see by the scanners here your baggage checks out. Are those cords for your chargers?”

“Yes they are ma'am.”

“I see your toilet bag has no substantial liquids.”

“No ma'am. I put the minimum shampoo needed into a smaller bottle. I'm there for two weeks only. I have the keys on me to the luggage locks.”

“That's good.” She finishes processing me. She hands me my ticket and boarding pass. “Have a safe flight and trip.”

“Thank you ma'am. Have a good weekend.”

I put the boarding pass and ticket into my front pocket of my pants. I stick my hand into the pocket to keep it safe.

I leave the check in area and walk to the gate. I wait in line to get scanned again. I show my boarding pass and ticket. I show them the cell phone is off and empty my pockets. I get scanned by the detectors. I pass with no problems. I return all my stuff back into my pockets.

I walk down the row of gates looking for my gate number. I finally spot it. I sit on the usual uncomfortable plastic chairs and wait until we are called. I decide to veg out and wait for the call. I know I could have brought something to read, but I rather try to remember the good times I had with my family.

The call finally comes to board the plane. We get on board the plane and wait until we receive word it is time. We finally take off about 11:10 A.M.. It takes about four hours from gate to gate.

After I check in and find my baggage, I find my lawyer there waiting for me to take me home. She drives me home in the company’s car. Talk about a quiet ride. We do not say much. We arrive at home to unpack. After unpacking, I go to the fridge to get a cold glass of water for myself and Anna. We both sit down on the sofa and the rocker and look at each other.

“I am sorry this has happened Richard. We have a lot to do this week. On the cell phone you told me you are about two weeks ahead on your assignments. That should be enough time to do all of this,” she said.

“I am sorry too. It is a tough way to say goodbye. I have been at funerals before; some were friends who could not take it. The emotions are just about the same. But, this time the hurt will be closer.”

“Do you have any close friends that you lean on at this time?”

“Well, there is one. But I lost track of her when I was 12 and our family moved out here 10 years ago. Her name is Brianna Wilson. She was my next door neighbor where we lived last in South Carolina. I guess you can start there. I tried my searches on the internet. But there is nothing recorded out there of her or her family.”

“Well we'll put our investigators out there and see what we can come up with. I will be here tomorrow at 12 noon to pick you up and begin the procedure, dressed comfortable; it will be long the next few days. You will probably not be at ease until after the burial next Saturday. You have the reading of the wills on Monday and signing a bunch of documents. You need to decide what to do about the house that is if you want to stay here. But, that can be decided after you graduate. You will need to secure the valuables here as well. Goodnight Richard, I am sorry for your loss. You have Sunday morning for yourself.”

“Good night Anna, thank you for picking me up. I will see you in the Sunday at 12 noon.”

What can I say about the next two weeks? I didn't do any exercises. I just ran in circles in the backyard. I jumped over some flower beds to make it a challenge.

I am able to rent a car while I am here through my lawyer. The first few days were the legal stuff and signings; it was a whirl wind. When I read the will I was surprised what mom and dad left me.

One big surprise was that when we open the sealed medical package. This medical package was put together after I protected Brianna. It contained X-rays of my abdomen. I knew there was something odd about me. I knew I had a small set of the male organs. I was the butt of my brother’s jokes for years. I never knew why. Now I do.

The pictures revealed that I have a set of female organs as well. The report said they are inactive, waiting to be turned on. Anna called the family doctor who confirmed this for us. From what Dr. Sarah Mitchell told us, everything is fine.

Even though I show a male on the outside, I am part female on the inside. The doctor also told me to make sure to not injure the male set; it could trigger the female set on. This will give me complex signals and could cause me some emotional problems in my mind. She said that I need to get to a hospital quickly and to call her for consultation to determine what to do next. Anna writes some notes of it and adds it to her file on me.

I remember the last conversation I had with Dr. Mitchell.
“Sarah, why aren’t the organs removed when they were discovered?”

“Your parents felt it wasn't necessary. Since they weren't damaged in the attack, they decided to leave them there. They said it was your decision to keep them or not.”

“Well, they haven't caused me problems yet. Now I need to be more careful who I meet.”

“Yes you do Richard.”

We also find a video letter from mom and dad.

Dear Richard,

We hope this video letter will answer some questions about you and what happened when you tried to rescue Brianna. When the doctors did the X-rays, they discovered the female organs. They were very surprised to find them there. There was no record of it in your birth records.

Therefore we all thought the original doctor kept this from us when you were born. That doctor is no longer working at the hospital where you were born. There are no record of the examination as well in the hospital. The only record there is a copy of your birth certificate indicating your gender. We did a search on the internet for him. We found that he wrote a book about children like you. You were not mentioned by name in the book.

The current doctors told us that all is well with you. Just be careful and don't injure yourself in the groin. We realized we had to tell you by your eighteenth birthday. It never happened because you had to go college quickly in August which is your birth month. Please forgive us for this omission from us.

We pray for your success in college. We hope you graduate with honors like you did in high school. We try to treat our three sons equally and show no favoritism. We have done all we can to help our sons prepare for the future and to take care of themselves. Mike and Kenny are working and living near us.

Take care Richard. Live each day to the fullest. We love you very much Richard.

With our all love
Mom and dad
XOXO

“Well at least they mentioned why they had to keep my medical mystery a secret. I wish I knew that sooner. It would have helped out with my outlook on life to start figuring it what it means to me.”

Anna was mystified as well. Here I am a hermaphrodite from the Greek history books. But, it is too late now to make an amends with them. But I did say it out loud to Anna that I forgive them all. It was the least I could do to keep me sane. I wept for them again once I realized I was finally saying good bye to them. Anna and I hugged and cried with each other for a while.

As for my brothers, there was not much. They did not get their wills prepared. This reminded me that I needed to get one together. So, Anna, put the gears in motion to get a will made up for me. What was left for me was enough money to make it for five years after graduation without getting a job; provided that I moved back home. But there were not too many computer jobs in the town where we lived. I would have to commute 1-2 hours to Charlotte. That means selling the house. That house did not mean too much to me anyway. I saw it as a move to break up Brianna and me, and nothing else. I really miss her.

Fortunately, we requested a photographer and a partner to do the videoing of the event. Eventually they will make an album for me and the other relatives.

It is strange seeing four caskets all laid out at once. Normally I see one casket. There were many times during the service I gasped in pain and shed some tears. Fortunately I had my Aunt and Uncle sitting beside me. They were equally in pain as well.

After the funeral and burial, I met many people there that I knew and did not know. Anna’s investigators came up empty in finding the Wilsons; I was hoping that the Wilson family would be here. Oh well… I will tell her someday if I ever find her.

Anna drove me back to the house and stayed there most of the following week. Anna and I had a few more loose ends to tie up. I did set the security system for the house to keep it monitored while I was in college. I gave Anna a copy of the house key and the password to the system. The system would dial her office pager, the 911 dispatcher and my pager if anything should happen. We also informed the 911 station of the setup, which they greatly appreciated. Hopefully I will not hear anything about the house while I am gone for my senior year in college and graduation.

It was strange walking into that house so quiet. I can still hear their voices in my head. I guess I will need to watch the family videos to see their faces again so as to not forget them. Well, I better get back to school and the grind of the homework.

“Richard, have you thought about graduate work?”

“I have Anna. The last month to think about it is February before registering for intent in the Fall Semester. It is when you start to apply for loans as well.”

“How long will it take to get a Masters?”

“It is a solid two years. Sometimes it is three. Why do you ask?”

“I'm thinking it might be best to do it while the information is fresh in your mind. You can also get the certifications needed while it is before you.”

“I'm thinking it might be best as well. Then let's plan that for February, Anna. I'm sure it will provide a very good paying job.”

“I'm sure it will be Richard. It will help you recover from your expenses with the house, the burials and for your own retirement.”

We take all of the jewelry and valuables mom and dad had purchased over the years. We set up another safety deposit box to keep them safe. We double check Mike and Kenny as well. Anna makes the arrangements to get their cars sold and close their apartments. The money from their cars will go into a retirement fund to be used at a later date for myself. We opened dad's deposit box to make sure everything is in order that we need in the future. I decide to keep the four largest semiprecious stones with me. Each one is about the size of my thumb. I also keep a bag of the smaller gems that are grain size. Mike and Kenny collected those thinking they will be used for something else. Anna also makes a note to purchase paste jewelry to replace the ones in the house.

“What are you going to do with those Richard?”

“These four don't have much meaning to me. I giving them to some friends, I know some day. I'm keeping the more expensive ones that our family found during that weekend trip to the gem mine.”

“Okay, you need to keep those in safe place. Out of sight and out of mind.”

“I'm going to keep them in my car. There is a secure spot we both know in the car.”

“That's good. Don't forget they are there.”

“Yes Anna.”

We add another item to the list of things to do. We must save all of the digital video recordings that mom and dad have collected and recorded over the years. I will need them to remember those times.

During some evenings, I sit on the back porch over looking the backyard. I see butterflies and other insects flying around going from flower to flower in mom's garden. When I saw the backyard, Anna and I made sure we hire a lawn mower service to keep the grass cut at the house. We also went to the post office to have the mail routed to her office.

The second week finally comes to an end. I make a call to Dr. Weldon to tell him I will be back on campus Friday about 1 P.M..

On Friday, Anna takes me to the airport; we say our goodbyes and have a hug one more time. I board the plane and arrive back at the Raleigh Airport by 12 noon.

I take the bus back to the University. When I get off the bus, I'm greeted by Dr. Weldon and several people unexpectedly.

“This is a surprise Dr. Weldon.”

“We know it is Richard. How did it go?”

“Everything went fine. However, my lawyer and I made a discovery about me. It seems my mom and dad kept hidden a medical mystery that I have.”

“What is it Richard?”

“I am truly a dual gender person.”

“Gasp!”

“What?”

“I have both sex organs. The female organs are fully intact. However, the vaginal opening is still closed. The organs are really small. So far they are turned off, as if in a hibernation state.”

“That's unusual Richard.”

“It is sir. I have a copy of the medical records with me. I'll file it with the nurses’ station here.”

“Then you must be careful that you don't get injured.”

“That is a must sir.”

“Let's stop by my office first before you head back to your dorm room.”

“Yes sir. Also, Anna and I have talked about it. I will stay and go after the Master's Degree.”

“That is good news Richard. I'm sure in time that will prove to be an excellent choice.”

“I'm sure it will be.”

We stop by the department. We inform my counselor and instructors that I am back. They said I can drop by anytime if I need any help talking it out.

I walk back to my dorm room by myself with my suit case and garment bag. I stop by the garden first to catch my breath. I see the familiar butterflies there.

“Well, it is over for now. It is time to build a new life. I will be here for the next three years or so before I finally graduate with Bachelors and Masters degree.”

“And we'll be here to talk it out.”

“Here is a surprise friends. I have met two people in my dreams. I met Caliber and King David.”

“You met Caliber? How is he doing?”

“He's doing fine. We'll be having talks once in awhile when I'm asleep.”

“That's good to hear.”

I look around and see no one coming down the path. I whisper quietly. “During my time there, we made a new discovery about myself friends.”

“What is it?”

“We discovered I'm dual gender.”

“What?”

“How?”

“It was kept hidden from me since it was discovered when I was eight. I never knew I had a female set of organs.”

“What are you going to do?”

“Take it day by day. Right now, the organs are small and in a hibernation state. I must not injure my male organs or they could get turned on.”

“Then you must be very careful and be aware of your surroundings.”

“Don't I know it friends. I need to make a call to Rav Shlomo.” I open my cell phone to call Rav Shlomo.

“Ring . . . ring . . . ring . . . ”

“Shalom Richard. I recognize your phone number. Are you back?”

“I'm back Rav. I accomplished a lot during the two weeks. There will be something new to discuss when I meet you again.”

“I look forward to hear it. Are you coming tomorrow morning?”

“More than likely I will be Rav. We will also talk about what I'll do this summer and after I get my Bachelor degree.”

“That's good.”

“My main focus next week is the final computer project and studying for the finals.”

“Then I won't bother you with any extra assignments from me. See you tomorrow morning Richard. Shabbat Shalom Richard.”

“See you then. Shabbat Shalom Rav.” I close the cell phone and put it in the holder. “Well, have a good weekend friends. I know you will be watching as always.”

“You too, Richard. Have a good weekend.”

I get up and carry my stuff back to my room. I open the door and find Bill in there.

“You're back Richard! How did it go?”

“It went fine Bill. It is strange seeing four caskets at one funeral service.”

“I'm sure it was.”

“Well, I'm ready to unload and enjoy the weekend. I have that last computer program to write before finals.” I unpack my suitcase and take out my suit and pants from the garment bag. I put everything away. Fortunately, I did my laundry at the house before I came back. I also did the laundry that was left by mom and dad.

“Yeah, it’s that time of the semester already. Let me know if you need any quiet time Richard. I can always go to the library.”

“Thanks Bill. I'll let you know when I'm on the verge of breaking down. I think there is a classmate in one of my classes who doesn't have any parents.”

“Yeah, that will be hard for me to relate to right now. You'll need to see the nurses if it gets really bad.”

“I'll have to remember that Bill.”

“So, what is your inheritance?”

“Huh?”

“I'm sorry, bad question Richard.”

“My family lawyer has the finger on it. Right now, everything is paid for to finish my Bachelor’s degree. Then we'll decide what to do next. I just might go after the Master degree while I'm here.”

“Yeah, it might be best Richard. You do have the grades and panache to earn a Master.”

“Well, I'm walking to the cafeteria. I need to use my card up.”

“I'll join you.”

Bill and I walk to the on campus cafeteria. We get ourselves a decent meal for a Friday night. After spending a half hour there we go our separate ways. I take a slow walk around the campus enjoying the sunset. I see the familiar butterflies following me around.

“That was a nice sunset friends. I'll be at the service tomorrow morning.” I then start to walk back to my dorm room.

Once I get back, I change to get ready for bed. “I know this final computer project has already started in the class. Because of what I did during Spring Break, I can devote more time to this project. I should be able to get it done in one week.” I do the usual in the bathroom. I make sure the clock is set for 7 A.M.. I get under the covers and look up at the ceiling.

“Hmm . . . what's interesting Maker. When I slept in my room, all of my dreams were the good times I had with family. That's all right. At least the dreams comforted me. Well goodnight Maker.”

When I fall asleep, the dreams of home and family come back into my mind.