Thursday, April 6 --- Bullpen, 10:30 a.m.

Lucy tapped Sue on the shoulder to get her attention before signing, Join me at game night? At Sue’s puzzled look, Lucy added, Remember? Game night at the Deaf Senior Citizen Center?

Recognition dawned as Sue nodded and signed, Yes, I remember now. You’re right, we should go—we haven’t gone there to play games in a while.

And I need the practice! Lucy signed in return, laughing when Sue replied, Practice? A card shark like you? Oh, wait, you mean practice signing, not your gin rummy game!

“Did I read that correctly?” Jack asked, pausing by Sue’s desk on his way to refill his coffee mug. “Something about a game night?”

“Yup,” Lucy answered. “Sue and I are going to Game Night at the Deaf Senior Citizen Center tonight. We’re going to play cards and I’m going to practice my signing.”

“That’s the place where your friend Helga works, right?” Jack asked, and Sue nodded her confirmation.

“Hey, if you’re not doing anything tonight, why don’t you join us?” Lucy asked. “It would be a great way for you to practice your signing, too. And I’m sure Helga would enjoy seeing you again. After all,” she added with a mischievous gleam in her eyes, “Helga always thought you two would make a lovely couple.” Winking at Sue, Lucy turned away, noting with satisfaction the blush on both Sue and Jack’s faces and the amused grins of the rest of the team, who had been shamelessly eavesdropping.

Jack cleared his throat self-consciously before daring to look at Sue, who seemed to have some difficulty of her own meeting his eyes. When she did, he said, “Game night sounds like fun. And I agree with Lucy….” he added with a straight face, watching Sue’s eyes widen, “…I certainly need to practice my signing!” Sue narrowed her eyes at him, but Jack turned away before she could formulate a reply. Shaking her head, she couldn’t stop the smile that spread over her face. Yes, she thought as she got back to work, Game Night will certainly prove to be interesting tonight, to say the least!

I must admit to doing a double-take when I saw your name - hehe. I think it's great you've entered the challenge - and I can't wait to see where this leads - the beginning is so promising!

I'm so glad to see a story from you but you really need to make it longer!

That is brave, starting a new story just about a day before the challenge closes... Sounds like fun, I'm in!!!

Game Room, Deaf Senior Citizen Center, 7:15 p.m.

Sue concentrated on the cards in her hand, studiously keeping her eyes from straying to the front entrance. It’s not like I’m purposely waiting for Jack to show up, she told herself. I’m here to play cards and if he shows up, that’s great. He said he’d come, so whenever he gets here is fine. Throwing a card into the discard pile on the table, she glanced up and met Lucy’s knowing smile. She was saved when Gladys, the other woman at their table, nudged Sue and signed, I see you brought your friend, the card shark, back to join us. How many games do you think she’ll win tonight?

Good question, Sue replied, smiling. I guess we’ll have to take our chances and play a couple of games to find out. Just then, Levi put a paw on her knee and Sue looked up to see Jack waving at her as he walked in, shrugging off his coat.

Sorry I’m late, he signed. Phone call from mom took more time than I realized.

That’s ok, Sue replied. We just got started. She introduced Gladys, trying to ignore the speculative look on the older woman’s face as she glanced between Jack and Sue.

Jack pointed to someone behind Sue and she turned to see Helga making her way over to their table, a broad smile on her face. It’s so nice to see you again, she greeted Jack warmly. You here to play cards with us tonight?

Yes, I am, Jack replied. I may not be able to sign very well, but I can play a mean game of gin rummy.

Oh, your signing is improving…you’ll be fine, Helga replied with a smile.

“Actually,” Lucy said suddenly, “since Gladys already knows I’m a card shark, I think I’ll move to another table where people don’t know my secret. Jack, why don’t you take my place? That way, Sue can help you with your signing if you need her to.”

“Thanks, Luce,” Jack said dryly. “I appreciate your vote of confidence in my signing ability. What about you? Won’t you need Sue’s help too?”

Smiling as she stood up, Lucy said, “I think I’ll be ok, Jack. I’ve taken a few classes---plus, Sue has taught me a lot. I think I’m ready to try this on my own tonight.”

“Ok, then,” Jack said, taking the chair that Lucy vacated. Nodding his head in her direction as she joined another group of women at a nearby table, he said to Sue, “You think she’s ready to do this on her own?”

“Yes, I think so,” Sue answered. “Besides, she’ll never know unless she takes the chance, right?”

“True,” Jack conceded. “That’s a very good philosophy to have,” he added, before turning his attention to the cards in front of him, leaving Sue wondering if he was talking about more than just trying to learn to sign.

I bet he was!!!

An hour later, Jack threw down his cards in mock disgust as Gladys triumphantly laid her cards on the table. G-I-N, she spelled and Sue shook her head as she, too, put her cards down. Now who’s the card shark? she teased. That’s the third game in a row that you’ve won tonight!

Blame your friend! I learned it from her, Gladys responded, drawing laughter from Sue and Jack. She then looked at the people milling around the room and signed, It looks like it’s time for refreshments. Are you two hungry?

Sure, I could eat a cookie or two, Jack signed, motioning for the two women to lead the way to the refreshment table.

“So, how did your games go?” Sue asked Lucy, having caught sight of her roommate.

“Not too bad,” Lucy replied. “But it’s still easier when you’re around to help me!”

Sue smiled at her friend as she replied, “Well, I’m proud of you for wanting to try to do it on your own. You know, you can learn just as much from your mistakes as from anything you learn in class.”

“Well, if that’s true, then I’ve certainly had plenty of learning opportunities tonight!” Lucy said, shaking her head. Then, changing the subject, she nodded at Jack, working hard to carry on a conversation with Helga. “So, how did it go with Mr. Hudson at your table tonight?”

Sue paused before answering, “Not bad, for a beginner. I give him a lot of credit for coming here and trying to communicate using sign language. He hasn’t has as many opportunities as you have to take classes. Overall, he did pretty well.”

“Well, if he ever asks, I will most definitely recommend you as a tutor,” Lucy said, grinning. Sue only shook her head at her matchmaking roommate and was saved from further comments by a young woman who came up to Lucy and tapped her on her shoulder.

“Hey, Lucy, I just wanted to say it was nice to meet you tonight,” the young woman said shyly. “This was fun---I think I’ll have to come back sometime.”

“I hope you do,” Lucy said, before turning to Sue. “Sue, this is Judy Eichorn. She was at my table tonight. She just moved here from upstate New York to take a job with the Anti-Defamation League. Judy, this is my roommate, Sue Thomas.”

“Welcome to D.C. It’s nice to meet you,” Sue said, shaking Judy’s hand. “I’m sorry, I didn’t quite catch your name…is it Judy or Julie?”

“It’s Judy,” the young woman replied, quickly fingerspelling her whole name for Sue. She glanced at Lucy, and then asked, “Lucy told me that you’re deaf and have been helping her learn to sign. Do you also read lips?”

“Yes, I do,” Sue answered. “I use lipreading, sign language and speech to communicate. That way, I try not to miss anything.”

“And don’t forget Levi, the wonder dog,” Lucy added, reaching down to give Levi an affectionate pat.

“Oh, Levi belongs to you?” Judy asked, also reaching down to pat Levi. “I was wondering all night whose dog this was.”

“Yes, he’s my hearing dog,” Sue explained. “He functions as my ears…like when the doorbell or phone rings, or when someone is trying to get my attention.”

“Oh, okay, I get it now. Well, you’ve sure got a friendly helper!” Judy said, as Levi sat contentedly while she patted him.

“If you continue to pat him, I think you’ll make a friend for life,” Lucy said in a mock stage whisper, and all three women laughed when Levi woofed his agreement.

“Well, I do need to get going,” Judy said, reluctantly giving Levi one final pat. “It was very nice to meet both of you. Hopefully, I’ll see you two here again at another Game Night.” Waving good night, she headed for the door.

Lucy glanced at her watch and said, “You know, Judy’s not the only one who needs to get going. It was an early morning today and I’m feeling it now. Are you ready to leave, or do you want to stick around for a few more minutes?”

“If you’re tired, you go on home, Luce,” Sue told her roommate. “I want to talk with Helga for a little bit…I was so involved with the games all night, I really didn’t have a chance to talk to her.”

“All right, then, I’ll see you at home,” Lucy said. “I’m trusting Jack to make sure you get home safe and sound,” she teased Sue, who only rolled her eyes at her friend.

“I’m a big girl, Lucy,” she said. “I can take care of myself. Go on…I’ll see you later.” Grabbing her coat, Lucy waved good night to Jack and Helga, and Sue made her way over to the table where they were sitting.

Sue, it’s so good to see you, Helga signed.

It’s good to see you, too, Sue replied, reaching down to hug the older woman before pulling up a chair next to hers. How have you been?

Helga’s face clouded over briefly before she replied, I’m okay. I have my good days and my bad days, just like everyone else.

I hope you’ve had more good days since Zimmer’s trial, Sue signed.

Once again, Helga’s face clouded over as she signed, Some days are better than others. Then, quickly changing the subject, she asked Sue, Have you been working with your young man? His signing has really improved!

Jack, who had been able to understand the gist of Helga’s signing, jumped in with a reply. Thank you, he signed to Helga. Yeah, Sue has been helping me here and there. Unfortunately, I don’t always have the time to practice.

Oh, I think you get plenty of practice! Sue retorted. You’re always trying to eavesdrop on my conversations with Lucy and Tara! When Helga laughed, Jack had the grace to look slightly guilty.

What can I say? Your conversations are more interesting than anything I could learn in a class! Jack tried to defend himself. Especially when it comes to talking about Myles! Even Sue couldn’t argue with that, as it was a joke among the team to talk about Myles without him knowing it. Although slow to pick up on sign language, he had become familiar with a few signs, after months of seeing it repeated.

Yes, Myles can be a good sport about it, Sue acknowledge with a smile. But lately, I’ve really had to be careful what I sign to Lucy or Tara in front of you!

After a few more minutes of conversation and Helga exacting a promise for Sue and Jack to get together with her for dinner soon, the two agents said their good-byes and headed home.

“So, did you have a good time tonight?” Sue asked, as they walked along in a comfortable silence.

“Yeah, I did,” Jack replied with a smile. “It was a neat way to practice my signing. And I definitely need to practice my signing,” he added, shaking his head. “It was a lot of work to follow a conversation!”

Sue nodded as she replied, “Yes it is, but your signing is really improving. And I know that they residents appreciated having the company, especially since you were willing to try to sign with them.”

Jack looked at her for a minute, as though he was about to say something, and then apparently changed his mind. Instead, he asked, “So, how is Helga really doing?”

What a TREAT to come home to!!!! I'm so glad to see this! Looking forward to Jack and Sue's conversation!

You got me very curious, GAfan

Did Jack see something wrong with Helga? And is Judy just a cameo, or is she part of something more?

Keep going...

You have us all circling....waiting for more.

I'm curious about Helga too.

Helga is always an interesting person to encounter. Please tell us more.

I'll be hitting the refresh button till you get back!


gracie

Sue was quiet for a moment, gathering her thoughts. “I’m not sure, Jack,” she finally answered. “I know that Zimmer’s trial was really hard on her last year. It was difficult for her to have to repeatedly relive the horror of what she went through, and then have to deal with all the media attention on top of it.”

Jack nodded, remembering Helga’s ordeal from the previous year. While she had wanted justice served, she had hated the attention and subsequent scrutiny that came along with it. However, her determination to see Zimmer convicted had won out, despite the media storm, some of which had been particularly nasty at times. Now that a year had passed, and Zimmer had been tried and convicted, Helga was hoping the interest in her story would die down.

Jack touched Sue’s arm to get her attention. “You look like you’re worried about something,” he said, and she nodded. “Honestly, Jack, I’m a little worried about Helga’s frame of mind. She called Zimmer’s capture a ‘hollow victory’ last year,” she explained to Jack. “I wish there was a way to help her get over that feeling.”

Jack paused before gently answering. “Sue, it’s great that you want to help Helga in that way, but ultimately, it has to be Helga who wants to change her way of thinking, and after all she’s been through, that just might be asking too much of her.”

Sue opened her mouth to reply, then closed it, mulling over Jack’s words. Finally she said quietly, “What you said makes sense, Jack, but I just really feel for Helga.”

“I know,” Jack replied sympathetically, as they neared Sue’s apartment. “But I think the best thing you can do for her right now is to just continue to be her friend.”

“Yeah, I guess so,” Sue said. “Well, thanks for walking me home, Jack. It was nice to have the company.”

Same here, Jack signed in return. See you tomorrow. Good night.

Good night, Sue signed. Sighing as she made her way to her apartment, she replayed Jack’s advice about helping Helga.

* * * *

What Helga went through was unimaginable to say the least, and we know that Sue was profoundly affected by it when she heard the story. Jack was very supportive here, even if he didn't hang around long.

What a pleasant surprise to come home to! You're writing!!!

I love Helga! I'm so happy to see a story with her involved! Looking forward to more!

Jill

It's so wonderful to see you posting a story, Ronna, and what a treat to get to catch up on so many posts at once!!! Your dialogue flows so naturally, I can hear it all! Loving the way you're writing J/S--very cute, and I am looking forward to how this plays out...

Friday, April 7 --- Bullpen, 10:00 a.m.

The light flashing at her desk immediately caught her attention, and Sue grabbed the microphone. “Hello, this is Sue Thomas.”

Hi, Miss Thomas, she read on her computer screen. This is Judy Eichorn…we met last night at the deaf senior citizen’s center.

“Sure, I remember,” Sue replied. “How can I help you?”

I’d like to talk to you about the Zimmer case. Sue’s eyes widened as the words scrolled by on the computer screen. The papers mentioned that you were one of the agents involved in that case.

“Yes, I was” Sue replied slowly. “But may I ask what exactly you want to talk about? The trial’s been over for almost eight months now.”

I know, came the reply. It will just be easier for me to explain in person. Is there a chance you could meet me for lunch today?

Sue debated for only an instant before curiosity won out. “Sure,” she said, agreeing to meet Judy at a nearby restaurant for lunch. “I’ll see you then.”

Lucy, noticing the puzzled look on Sue’s face, paused by her desk. “Is something wrong?” she asked her friend.

“I’m not sure,” Sue said, as she explained the phone call she had received.

“You know, Sue, I didn’t want to mention this last night because I didn’t want to upset you or Helga,” Lucy said hesitantly, “but Judy asked about Helga last night.” At Sue’s raised eyebrows, Lucy continued “She just asked if Helga was the lady from the newspapers ….the one who helped capture the guard at her concentration camp. And when I told her that yes, it was her, she just said that Helga was very courageous. That was it, and I didn’t think anything of it. But now I’m wondering if that’s what she wants to talk to you about.”

“I guess I’ll find out at lunch,” Sue replied thoughtfully, turning back to her desk. Her heart sank at the thought of Judy turning out to be a reporter, trying to squeeze out one last story about Helga and her ordeal. Stop it, Sue! she mentally scolded herself. She didn’t mention Helga’s name to you on the phone, so maybe she called you for an entirely different reason. But even Sue didn’t believe her own words and anticipated her lunch date with Judy with some foreboding.

Hmm....very curious. What does Judy want with Sue??? And why was she asking Lucy so many questions?? Loving the fact that you're spoiling us today, Ronna, and I wouldn't be complaining if you kept it up!

Looking forward to see how Sue will approach Helga, considering it did affect Sue as well.

Can you see me doing my excited happy dance??? No? Well count yourself lucky. I love that you're writing here -- and am totally intrigued about what's behind all this. And Jack and Sue I have to say that the episode with Helga is one of my all time favourites. Anxious to see where you are going with this...though I think it was pretty gutsy to send Jack into the seniors center. One of peep from those melting browns and pace makers could have been seizing up all over the place!

kav

Sooooo...what's up with Judy? I hope she's one of the good guys - er - gals.

You're doing great! This is so exciting!!!!!

Restaurant, 12:30 p.m.

Judy was waiting for Sue when she arrived at the restaurant. A relieved smile came over her face when she spotted Sue. I’m glad you’re here, she signed shyly. I wasn’t sure you’d come.

Not a problem, Sue answered as they were shown to their table. After the waiter handed them their menus and left, curiosity got the best of her and she asked, How you did learn to sign so well?

My mother is hard of hearing, Judy explained with a smile. Even though my mom went through years of speech therapy and is now reasonably understandable when she speaks, she and my grandparents all learned sign language in case my mother ever lost her hearing completely. It came in handy when my mom had a cold or a sore throat or was just too tired to try and speak. Judy paused as the waiter came by to take their orders and collect their menus. I guess you’re wondering why I called you, she signed.

Sue smiled as she replied, Yes, I’m very curious why you wanted to talk to me.

Judy looked down, nervously playing with her napkin. Finally, meeting Sue’s eyes, she signed, It’s about Helga. I think she was in the same concentration camp as my great-aunt.

Stunned, Sue gaped at the young woman’s words. Regaining her composure, she asked, Are you sure?

Judy nodded. I read about her in all the papers, she explained, and the time and place of her story fits with what I’ve been told.

And what exactly have you been told? Sue asked cautiously.

Judy smiled. Let me back up and tell my story from the beginning, and then hopefully things will make sense for you. At Sue’s nod, Judy took a deep breath and began her story.

That's quite a coincidence! No wonder Judy wants to know more about Helga...looking forward to more, Ronna!

Wow... just goes to show how small this world really is...

This is wonderfully written and well presented, Ronna... looking forward to 'hearing' Judy's story, heartwrenching as it must be.

When I was young, she began, all I knew about my grandparents was that they were married in 1940, immigrated to the United States from Germany in 1945 after World War II, and that my mom was born in 1946. My mom was told only that my parents were Holocaust survivors and nothing more. She always assumed it was just too painful for them to remember and retell their stories, so she never pushed for more. My mom also said that at times it was difficult for her growing up hard of hearing. She said that sometimes her parents pushed so hard for her to learn to speak and it wasn’t until her pediatrician pointed out that my mom might someday lose her hearing altogether that my grandparents agreed to learn to sign, along with my mom. They still preferred that she speak and not sign, though, but at least my mom now had another way to communicate when people didn’t understand her speech.

That’s very common, Sue interjected. Hearing parents often find it easier for them if their hard of hearing or deaf child can learn to speak, because it’s often much harder for them to learn to sign.

Right, Judy agreed. But in my mom’s case, she remembers feeling that it was almost as though her father was….afraid because she was hard of hearing. He was always very protective of her, and not just because she was his only child and hard of hearing, as well. There was more to it---like my grandfather was very hesitant to tell people at first that my mom was hard of hearing. For a long time, my mom thought it was because my grandfather was ashamed of having produced a child who had trouble hearing and speaking normally, yet he’d boast to anyone who would listen about her accomplishments, just like any other proud father. Eventually, she learned the truth about my grandparents’ past and things began to make sense.

Judy looked down at the mangled napkin in her lap, and Sue sensed an internal war waging inside. Finally Judy raised troubled eyes to Sue’s and went on with her story. My grandfather passed away about seven months ago. He’d been sick for a while, but when he learned about Zimmer’s trial, he was determined to live long enough to see him brought to justice. My mother and I couldn’t understand my grandfather’s obsession with the Zimmer trial. Since neither of my grandparents would explain their interest in the Zimmer trial, my mother and I thought that maybe it was because members of their family had been killed in the Holocaust and they wanted some justice after all these years. He passed away about two weeks after Zimmer was convicted.

In the meantime, my grandmother hasn’t been doing so well herself, especially with the cold winters, so she and a friend are going to move to a senior citizen’s retirement center in Boca Raton, Florida. My mom and I have been helping her go through boxes and clear stuff out, help her pack, that sort of thing. The other day, my mom found a picture, one of only a few things my grandfather was ever able to bring with him from Germany. It was a family photo, and we asked who the people were. Judy looked at Sue and continued, My grandmother broke down in tears. Since my grandfather was gone and she’s elderly herself, she said it was time that we knew the truth.

My grandparents are from the same city in Germany as Helga, she signed. My father had a younger sister named Sarah, who was deaf. When the Nazis came to power, they came for all of the able-bodied men in the city and took them away to work as slave laborers. My grandfather never saw his father again. The Nazis eventually banned all Jews from their places of work and even schools. When Jewish families were rounded up for deportation, my grandfather’s family was targeted because they were Jewish and had a successful dry good business --- and because my great-aunt was deaf.

So why do you think that Helga was in the same concentration camp as your great-aunt? Sue prompted gently, fearing she might already know the answer.

Judy lifted teary eyes to Sue’s as she replied, She and Helga used to go to the same school for the deaf before their families were taken away to the concentration camp.

Judy paused to blow her nose before continuing. That’s part of the reason why, even after he came to the United States, my grandfather was so afraid of having people know that his daughter was hard of hearing. He was afraid that she would be taken from him just like his sister was.

Such a tragic time in history - a time, unfortunately, I'm not so sure we learned from...at least not the way we should have!

Wonderful story, GA fan. I'm so glad you are sharing it with us.

Such a shocking and heartwrenching story Judy had to share with Sue...how sad to think of how many people had similiar experiences. I'm so glad you decided to tell us this story!

Sue patted Judy’s hand as she once again reached for a tissue. Giving Sue a watery smile, she went on. When he and my grandmother immigrated, my grandfather changed his name from Kurt to Curtis and from Mueller to Miller because he was afraid of having a name that sounded ‘too German,’ or worse, ‘too Jewish.’ That’s fine, lots of people’s names changed at Ellis Island. But while you can change your name, you can’t change the fact that your daughter is hard of hearing. My grandfather was never able to let go of that fear that one day, someone was going to come for his family again. That fear, plus the guilt that he was the only surviving member of his family, is his legacy from the concentration camp.

So, now you’re probably wondering how this all ties to Helga, Judy signed with a small smile. My mother and I had never really known much about my great-aunt Sarah, other than my mother is named after her. My grandfather lost contact with his mother and sister when they were divided into the men’s and women’s sections of the concentration camp. Sometimes, he would catch sight of them and could even speak to them. Then, they just….disappeared, along with the rest of his family.

Judy looked at Sue as she signed, My grandmother remembers my grandfather talking about another family with a deaf daughter in the concentration camp. The daughter’s name was Helga, and she was friends with Sarah because they went to the same school for the deaf until the Nazis came to power. I remember that when my grandfather saw Helga’s picture in the papers, he cried with all the pain of remembering what they had gone through. That’s why he was so determined to remain alive to see Zimmer convicted. My grandmother thinks that he was afraid to contact her in case she didn’t want to see him…either because it would bring up painful memories of the past, or maybe she’d blame him for not doing more to protect his sister in the concentration camp….who knows now? Anyway, I’m wondering if you would talk to Helga for me and tell her my story and see if she’d be willing to meet with my family to tell us what she remembers about my great-aunt Sarah. We’d like to put some closure to her story if we could.

Sue sat quietly, digesting Judy’s story. Finally she replied, I’m not sure how Helga will react, but I will speak with her. However, you need to be prepared for her to not want to relive her story again.

I understand, Judy signed. But thank you so much for at least agreeing to ask her.

No problem, Sue said. Glancing at her watch, she signed, I’d better get back to work.

Me, too, Judy signed. After thanking Sue for meeting her, the two women parted ways, with Sue promising to call Judy after she’d spoken to Helga.

* * * * *

That's not going to be an easy conversation is it?

But maybe that is what Helga needs - to give memories - however bittersweet - to a family member.

Looking forward to more - I'll be checking after I get home from church!

Saturday, April 8 --- Helga’s apartment, 7:00 p.m.

Helga smiled as Sue cleared away the remaining dishes from their dinner. Oh, stop, she chided the younger woman, you’re not supposed to be doing the cleaning.

It’s the least I can do, since you made dinner, Sue replied, putting the last few dishes into the dishwasher.

Well, it’s not necessary, it was my pleasure to have you over for dinner, Helga replied. I’m just sorry your friend Jack couldn’t make it.

Yes, well, he and Bobby had tickets to a hockey game and they’ve had these plans for a while, Sue explained. Jack said he was sorry to miss seeing you this time, but will hopefully get to see you soon.

Following Helga’s lead, Sue accepted a cup of coffee and a cookie as they sat on the couch. Helga sipped her coffee and looked at Sue carefully. I’m glad that you could join me for dinner tonight, she signed, but I have the feeling there’s something on your mind.

You’re right, Sue replied with a small smile, wondering how to broach the subject of Judy’s request. Finally, she asked Helga, Do you remember meeting a young woman named Judy the other night at Game Night?

Helga thought for a minute before replying, I think so….that name sounds familiar.

She just moved here because she accepted a new job with the ADL, Sue prompted, trying to jog Helga’s memory.

Oh, yes! Helga’s face lit up with recognition. I remember her now. I remember asking her how she had learned to sign so well, and she told me that her mother is hard of hearing. She said that she used to volunteer to visit and play games with deaf senior citizens back home, and that volunteering at our Game Night helped her not be so homesick. Is she the reason you look so pensive tonight?

Yes, she is, Sue replied. Taking a deep breath, she continued, Judy asked me to lunch today to tell me a story about her grandparents. It seems as though her grandfather had a story that’s somewhat similar to yours.

Oh? Helga asked, the smile slipping from her face as she put her coffee cup down with hands that trembled ever so slightly. How so?

Judy’s grandparents are also Holocaust survivors, Sue began, only to be interrupted by Helga.

Ah, they were put in the concentration camps because they were Jewish, right? At Sue’s nod, Helga shook her head. Then I still don’t understand why you think there are similarities in our stories.

Sue bit her lip before answering, In addition to being Jewish, Judy’s grandfather’s family was put in the concentration camps because her grandfather’s younger sister was deaf. She told me that her grandfather’s family was targeted for deportation early on because they had two strikes against them, as it were.

Helga paled upon learning this piece of information. What was her grandfather’s and his sister’s name? she asked.

Sue took out the piece of paper with the family names Judy had supplied for her at lunch. Her grandfather’s name was Curtis Miller, but you probably knew him as Kurt Mueller, she explained. He had a younger sister named Sarah who was deaf.

Helga reached for the paper where Judy had drawn a quick family tree. She studied the names for a minute, looking up when Sue touched her arm. Apparently, Sarah Mueller was the same age as your sister, and you went to the deaf school with her, Sue said.

Helga looked over the paper again, touching the names with shaking hands. Then, dropping the paper, she covered her face with her hands, silent tears making their way down her cheeks. Alarmed, Sue sat by the older woman and put her arms around her. After a few minutes, Helga wiped the tears from her face and gratefully accepted the tissue Sue offered her.

Wow! ...... WoW!..... ok, i'm gonna come back when i can think of something more eloquent but please know GA Fan that i am loving this. I feel like i can actually reach out and touch the characters and it's your writing that gives me that opportunity. Wow!

I’m sorry, Sue signed. I really didn’t mean to upset you with this.

It’s ok, Helga reassured her. I just haven’t thought about Sarah and her family in over sixty years. It was just a shock to see their names after all this time.

So, you do remember Sarah and Kurt? Sue asked, and Helga nodded.

Oh, yes, I remember them, Helga said with a small smile. Even though Sarah was a few years younger than me, we became good friends, especially since we attended the same school for the deaf. We helped teach her brother Kurt and my younger sister Anna how to sign. Helga smiled at a distant memory. They wanted to learn how to sign because they hated it when Sarah and I would talk about them and they had no idea what we were saying. It used to drive them crazy!

I’ll bet it did, Sue said with a smile. Gently, she asked, Was Sarah and her family put in the same concentration camp as your family?

Helga’s face clouded over at the memory. Yes, she replied. I remember how Sarah and her mother comforted me and my family when my father was killed right before our eyes. Since the men and women were separated, Sarah and her mom didn’t know until later that her father had been sent to the gas chambers one night. Helga’s sighed as she continued, My mother, and Anna, and Sarah’s mother tried to help as best as they could by trying to interpret the guard’s orders without being seen so Sarah and I wouldn’t get beaten. But then my mother and Sarah’s mother got sick and died of typhoid fever, and then my sister died of starvation… Helga’s hands stopped moving as she struggled to finish her story. And then it was just me and Sarah, two young deaf girls desperately trying to survive. So, we learned to depend on each other. Most of the other women didn’t want anything to do with us, because we were a liability since we couldn’t hear, but there were a few women who took pity on us and tried to help us when they could. Helga blew her nose before continuing. Then one morning, when I went to wake Sarah for roll call, she didn’t move. I shook her and shook her, but she just didn’t move. One of the women came and dragged me outside. It was too late for Sarah, and if I didn’t show up at roll call, I’d be hunted down and killed, too. By the time I got back to our barrack, Sarah was gone. Another woman told me later that one of the Nazis guards come and disposed of her body like she was nothing more than a piece of trash. This woman knew it was definitely Sarah because of a comment the guard made. He said, 'Ah, good, one less defective Jewish pig in the world.' Helga stopped signing and sat, lost in thought, her mind sixty years in the past. Finally, she looked at Sue and asked, So, what does Judy want from me?

My heart hurts so much... this is so achingly real, and so horrific... but as painful as it is, it's definitely appropriate for us to consider, especially this time of year. Thank you so much for writing and sharing it... I'm looking forward to more!

She’d like for you to meet with her, her mother and grandmother, because they’d like to hear your story, Sue replied. They’d really like to find out what happened to Sarah.

But even before Sue finished signing, Helga was shaking her head. No, Sue, she signed. I won’t do it…I can’t.

I know it’s painful for you to relive your story, Sue began, only to be cut off by Helga.

No, Sue! she signed with more force this time. Don’t you understand? I can’t face them….how do I tell them that I failed Sarah?

How did you fail Sarah? Sue asked, confused.

When Sarah’s mom was dying, she begged me to watch out for Sarah. Since I wasn’t Jewish, she thought maybe I’d have a better chance of surviving. And so I promised I’d watch out for Sarah. I was older than her, and better at doing some lipreading. And yet….and yet…. This time, Helga couldn’t stop the tears. …And yet, I couldn’t save her, I couldn’t keep my promise.

Sue’s heart went out to the weeping woman. Once Helga had composed herself, Sue signed, You and Sarah were young girls at the time. That was a huge responsibility to take on, and I know you did the best that you possibly could. I’m sure Judy’s family would understand.

It doesn’t matter, Helga replied resolutely, because I’m not going to talk to them, I’m not going to tell them my story. Besides, I don’t see what good it would do. What’s done is done. Nothing I can say or do will bring anyone’s family back or erase what happened. Nothing will change the past, not even God…yours, mine or theirs.

Sue sat quietly for a minute, absorbing Helga’s words, as the older woman once again looked at the names on the paper, transporting her to a time long gone. Eventually, Sue placed her hand over Helga’s to get her attention. If you truly choose to not speak to Judy and her family, then that’s the message I’ll give them, she began. But, I want you to think about something first. One year ago, Zimmer was finally captured and brought to justice. I remember you told me at the time that you felt if didn’t change anything inside you. You said it was a ‘hollow victory’ since his capture wouldn’t bring back your family or erase what you endured. Well, this just might be a chance for you to reach out to someone else who is hurting….for something positive to come from your experience. Maybe this would be the ‘something’ that would help change your insides.

As Helga started to sign her reply, Sue shook her head. No, don’t answer me now, she signed. Think about what I said over the weekend, and we’ll talk again Monday. Deal?

Helga sighed, and then reluctantly signed Deal.

Good, Sue replied. Then, glancing at her watch, she added, Well, it’s getting late and I need to head home. I’ll talk to you sometime Monday. Helga nodded and bid Sue good night with a troubled look on her face.

Sue looked at Levi as they headed home. “I sure hope I did the right thing, buddy,” she told him. “I guess it’s truly in God’s hands now. I just hope that Helga is open to whatever He has to say.” She smiled as Levi woofed his agreement. “I guess we’ll have to wait until Monday to see what she decides.”

* * * **

WOW! You're leaving me speechless with my box of kleenex


Sue did the right thing ... but the decision cannot be an easy one for Helga

Monday, April 10 --- Bullpen, 9:30 a.m.

Sue looked up, startled, as a paper airplane sailed to a stop on her desk. She peered over her computer monitor to see Jack looking at with concern. You okay? he signed, and Sue just shrugged.

Jack thought for a moment, and then signed, Why don’t we take Levi for a walk and you can tell me about what’s bothering you, he suggested.

Sure, Sue agreed, as she reached for Levi’s leash. Although she had discussed Judy’s request and Helga’s reaction with Lucy over the weekend, she could also use another person’s perspective.

Sue and Jack walked to a nearby park, where Sue let Levi off of his leash so he could run around. Jack indicated a bench and they both sat. So, what’s bothering you this morning? he asked, and Sue filled him in on the events from the past few days. When she finished, Jack looked deep in thought. “You know, I’m not sure how I can help you, other than by just being a friend and listening to you,” he said ruefully. “I’m not much help, am I?”

“It’s okay,” Sue reassured him. “Sometimes just having a friend listen is all you need.”

Jack nodded thoughtfully as he said, “I wonder if Helga realizes that.” At Sue’s quizzical look, he continued, “I wonder if Helga has any friends she can talk to about her memories, how she feels now….someone who understands what she’s been through.”

Sue thought for a minute before shaking her head. “I don’t know, Jack, but that’s a very good point. No wonder this past year was so hard for her…. I really don’t think she had many people to lean on when things got rough for her. Unfortunately, it’s not like she had any family left to support her.”

“True,” Jack agreed. “What Helga when through was horrific. I can certainly understand why she might want to put everything behind her and never talk about it. But, on the other hand, talking to Judy and her family might be a way to let someone help her, even if all they do is listen.”

Sue nodded. “Yeah, that’s what I was trying to tell her, but I’m not sure she’s willing to do that.”

“Well, then, that’s her choice,” Jack said. “And while you might wish she’d make a different choice, ultimately, you don’t have much say in the matter. From where I stand, you’ve done all you can do, and now it’s up to Helga to decide.”

“I know,” Sue replied. “But my heart really goes out to both of them.” Jack nodded.

“Yes, I can see that,” he said sympathetically. “And I wish I had a better answer for you, but I don’t.”

Sue just smiled at him. “That’s okay. Thanks for listening, though…I appreciate that.”

“Anytime,” Jack answered. Looking around the park, he said, “Well, I guess we’d better get Levi and head back to the office.”

Gosh

Bullpen, 11:00 a.m.

Sue looked up when the light on her desk flashed, and quickly reached for the microphone. “Hello, this is Sue Thomas.”

Hi, Sue, this is Judy Eichorn, she read on the screen. I know you said you’d call me after you’d spoken to Helga, but I guess I’m more anxious than I thought. So, I’m calling to find out if you have spoken with her yet.

Sue bit her lip before answering. “Yes, I’ve spoken with her,” she said slowly. “And right now, I don’t think Helga is up to telling anyone her story anymore. I’m sorry.”

After a pause, Judy’s answer appeared. That’s okay, I understand. Thanks for trying, though.

“You’re welcome,” Sue replied.

I’m going to the Deaf Senior Citizen Center tonight for Craft Night, Sue read on her screen. Any chance you might go, too?

“I’m not sure,” Sue replied. “It depends on how much I get done here tonight. But I should definitely be able to make it for Wednesday’s Game Night.”

I can’t go to Game Night on Wednesday because that’s the first night of Passover, came Judy’s explanation. I’ll be busy all Tuesday night and Wednesday after work with getting ready for the Passover seders. My mom and grandmother are coming to town to help me with my first seder in my new apartment. So, Monday is really the only night I can go.

“Oh, I see,” Sue said. “Well, then, I’ll meet you tonight for Craft Night.”

Great! I’ll see you then! Judy said. Bye.

Sue sighed as she disconnected the call and then dialed the number for the Deaf Senior Citizen Center, asking to speak with Helga.

Hello?

“Hi, Helga, this is Sue Thomas.”

Oh, hello. I guess you’re calling to see if I’ve changed my mind.

“Yes, I am.”

After a long pause that Sue knew had nothing to do with Helga taking time to read her words as they scrolled by on the TTY, Sue read her response. I’m sorry, Sue, but I just can’t do it. I haven’t changed my mind.

“That’s fine,” Sue replied. “I also wanted to let you know that Judy will be there tonight for Craft Night, so you can tell her in person.”

I’m not sure that’s such a good idea.

“Well, if you don’t want to tell Judy and her family your story, I think you at least owe her an explanation to her face as to why. She’ll understand better if it comes from you and not from me.

Well….okay.

“Great. I’ll see you later tonight, then.” As Sue disconnected the call, she thought, I hope I wasn’t too hard on Helga, but maybe when she sees Judy, she’ll reconsider her decision.

I'm glad Jack was there for Sue, and for Helga to meet Judy maybe not be a bad idea, but it may hurt a lot at first ... keep my kleenex near me.

some very powerful posts, that eppy was heartbreaking i can't begin to understand the evil that leads people to treat others like that or how you ever begin to deal with such horrific experiences

cath

This is such a powerful story, Ronna! It must have been difficult for Sue to say that to Helga, but I think she's right---it's important for Helga to face this part of her past, and maybe she'll help Judy's family in the process. Hopefully she changes her mind when she sees Judy in person...

I had almost forgotten that Helga wasn't Jewish... and that makes a difference. For Judy, the Passover season is such an important time to be looking into the past... a time of remembrance. It's very appropriate that she and her family would be thinking of the Holocaust and their family's history in this way, and wanting information and closure. Helga isn't in the same place spiritually (I'm not saying she's in a lesser place, just a different place) and I can understand her reluctance to place any attention on the past. But, hopefully, she'll change her mind and find healing in the process.

You are handling this with such grace and dignity... beautiful job!!!

Deaf Senior Citizen Center, 7:15 p.m.

At Levi’s paw on her leg, Sue looked up to see Judy waving at her. Hi, Sue, it’s nice to see you again, she signed. “And it’s definitely great to see you again, buddy,” she said as she leaned down to ruffle the dog’s fur.

“It’s nice to see you, too,” Sue replied. “And I know Levi loves the attention,” she teased. “You’d think the poor guy was deprived of attention all day,” she added, earning a laugh from Judy.

Deprived of attention? I think spoiled from the attention would be more like it, Judy signed with a grin, before giving Levi one final pat. Then, quickly sobering, she asked, Is Helga here tonight? When she’s not busy, I’d really like to talk with her, if you think she’d be okay with that.

Well, we can ask, Sue replied, turning to scan the room for Helga. She spotted the older woman across the room, gathering some supplies for the craft activity. After she deposited them on a nearby table, she looked up, and caught Sue’s eye.

Judy’s here, Sue signed. Is there a place where we can talk privately?

Helga hesitated, and then nodded. We can sit in the main living room, she signed, leading the way.

Once the three women were settled, Judy introduced herself to Helga. My name is Judy Eichorn, she began. I don’t have any family here in the city, but I think you might have known my grandfather and great-aunt in Germany.

Yes, Sue told me your story, Helga replied stiffly. And although their names sound familiar, I’m afraid that’s all I can remember. I’m sorry I can’t be of more help to you.

Can’t be or won’t be? Judy asked shrewdly, knowing the answer when Helga looked away from her. Waiting until Helga faced her again, Judy continued, I can only imagine how incredibly difficult and painful it must be to tell your story. I know how hard it was for my grandparents. But my family would really appreciate your help…we’d really like to know anything you could tell us about my great-aunt.

Helga looked at the earnest young woman and again shook her head. I’m sorry, she repeated, but I really can’t help you.

Judy nodded as she gathered her coat and purse. Well, thank you for your time. It was worth a try to at least ask, she signed. I won’t bother you with this any more. But, if you do ever remember something, no matter how small, would you please let me know? she asked, holding out her business card. Helga hesitated, and then nodded as she accepted the card. Thank you, Judy signed. Then, turning to Sue, she signed, Thank you for your help, too. I really appreciate it.

You’re welcome, Sue replied, waving good bye to Judy as she headed to the front entrance. But before she reached the door, something made her turn back to Helga. You know, Passover starts Wednesday night. Passover is a very special holiday for the Jewish people because it’s about redemption…our freedom from slavery, both physical and spiritual, she explained. The name Passover comes from the Hebrew verb pasach, which means ‘to spare, or to pass over,’ she continued, noting that she now had Helga’s full attention. The story comes from Exodus, where the tenth and final plague God sent down upon the Pharaoh was the slaying of the firstborn son of every household. God ‘passed over’ the Jewish households because they had marked their doorposts with lamb’s blood as they were instructed, and so their firstborn children were spared.

Yes, I remember the story from Sunday School, Helga signed. But I don’t see what it has to do with me.

I'm holding on, GA ... please come back!

I think Helga will see exactly what it has to do with her very soon... this story is so full of meaning! More soon?

I think that Helga is about to go on an important journey...she may not be Jewish, but it seems like there is a lot she can learn from the story of Judy's family...

Judy smiled sadly as she reached forward to give Helga’s hands a quick squeeze before releasing them to answer her. On Passover, the Jewish people celebrate their freedom from slavery, the most obvious being the physical slavery the Jews endured under the Egyptians, she explained. But there’s also spiritual freedom, the freedom to worship as you choose, or even to not worship, if you so choose. Leaning forward to make sure she had Helga’s attention, Judy earnestly resumed her story. Although my grandfather was liberated from the concentration camp, he was only liberated physically. He never had any sort of spiritual or emotional freedom because he had fear, anger, and guilt as constant companions for the rest of his life.

Judy watched as Helga’s eyes filled with tears as she absorbed the meaning of her words. When Helga once again met her eyes, Judy continued, You have every right to be bitter and angry about Zimmer. But if you choose to remain angry and bitter, then you are still a ‘slave’ to him, even though he’s finally been caught and brought to justice. It’s like your liberation isn’t really complete yet. Judy sat back and let Helga contemplate her words for a minute. Then she reached into her coat pocket and pulled out two pieces of paper. Here’s my address, she told the two women, handing them the paper. You’re both invited to join me and my family for the seders, and to bring a friend, if you want. Looking at Helga, she added, Even if you choose to not tell your story, I hope you’ll consider coming by. At the very least, my grandmother would like to meet someone else from the concentration camp…someone else who understands what she went through. Promise me you’ll think about it?

When Helga slowly nodded, Judy stood up. Thank you, she signed. Now, I really do need to go. I hope to see you both at one, or both, of the seders. And with that, Judy waved good bye and was gone.

How powerful this is!!! And so full of truth...I hope that Helga reconsiders talking with Judy's family and sharing her experiences with people who will be able to share her pain.
There's something that none of us should take for granted!! Especially since there are still places in the world where you can be persecuted or much worse, simply for practicing your chosen religion. This story has such depth, Ronna---you're doing a wonderful job!

Well said... very well said!!! I really hope they take her up on her invitation!

I hope Helga goes ... she so much needs to put the past behind her