Planet of Peace

by Jerry Belvo

  He returned her call telling her he would meet with her after his last class the following day. He showed up promptly at four o=clock.

  Typical for a politician, Storm=s office was plush, with mahogany bookcases, ornate overstuffed chairs, and a big inlaid, executive desk in the middle of the room. She could never have afforded such a nice office without government and business connections. As her secretary showed him in, she stood to greet him. AThanks for coming, Jeff. Won’t you sit down?@ She paused. AWith the publicity the Soup Kitchen has gotten this week a parade is sure to draw a large crowd. People will want to see you, the healer. If you can lead the march I think it will be very successful. People will be inspired to contribute to such a worthy cause. This time I will be introducing you. What do you say?@

  AI really don’t know.@ Jeff paused. AThis is going so fast, I can’t think straight.@

  ALet’s take one step at a time. First I’ll make an announcement to the press that a march will be held and get the necessary permits. I’ll contact the officials who will be happy to participate because it’s free publicity for them. You go to the Soup Kitchen and solicit support for the march. Get the word out to the homeless. We will hold it on Sunday when people are off. How does that sound?@

  AI can see why they made you Chairwoman. You make everything sound so easy.@

  AIt really is when you break it down. Get the word out, and let it happen. Generous people always want to give to a good cause, and they’ll support us. Do you think we can march from the park on Colfax to the Capitol Building? It’s only a mile.@

  AWe need buses to get the people from the shelter to the park? Do you think the city will provide us with a few buses?@

  AYou forget Jeff, I have connections.@ She looked at him waiting for a favorable response.

  AWell, okay I’ll do it,@ he sighed.

  AGreat! Let’s plan it for eleven o=clock Sunday morning.@ She stood up and Jeff knew the meeting was over. AI’ll see you on Sunday.@ She shook Jeff=s hand and he left the office.

  Leaving the building he took a deep breath and sighed. He hoped he hadn’t created something he couldn’t handle. Tomorrow was Saturday, his day to work at the Soup Kitchen. He would make the announcement. They had nothing else to do and a march would give them a chance to have some fun. He just needed to figure out what he was going to say.

  *

  Mid afternoon he walked into the Soup Kitchen via the back door armed with several posters he had made about the march. The cooks were busy preparing the evening meal. One gave him the eye as he walked in the door.

  AWe could use some help. We’re expecting some extra diners this evening. Yesterday the crowd almost doubled. They wanted to see you. We had to call for more food and volunteers. Could you put up extra tables and chairs? Oh, a florist sent over flowers to put on the tables. They’re in the cooler.@

  Jeff made himself useful setting up the tables and chairs, then went to the cooler returning with vases of flowers thinking usually we don’t have these unless it’s a holiday or a special occasion. Then he put up the posters, suspicious of what might later transpire. Shortly, Storm walked in the back door followed by reporters. AHi, Jeff,@ she said with a big smile. He was embarrassed, not ready for this. He thought he was going to make a simple announcement. He should have known that whatever Storm touched would be grandiose. Well, it was too late to turn back.

  She motioned for the camera men to go out front. When they were in place the doors opened, and the two of them walked through to the waiting crowd. The people cheered when they saw Jeff. Word had gotten around about the healer. He was an instant celebrity.

  It was Storm who spoke first introducing Jeff. Speechless he had completely forgotten what he was going to say. Storm turned to him and whispered, ‘the march’ bringing him out of his trance.

  Finally he began. AFriends,@ he paused and the crowd went wild. He waited for them to quiet down then said. AFriends, I’m indeed honored and humbled by your enthusiasm.@ He felt the words coming through him as though he was just the vehicle for someone or something greater than him. AI’m here, doing what I can do to help. I see all of you several times a week, and feel your plight. Now we have an opportunity to make a difference. Tomorrow we are going to have a parade, and I’m inviting all of you to participate. We are going to march from Cheesman Park to the Capitol building. Leslie Storm and other city officials are going to honor us with their presence. Buses will be here to pick you up in the morning so that we can begin marching a eleven o=clock. Tell everyone so we can have a big turnout. Now let’s eat.@ Again the crowd cheered as they lined up single file for their big meal of the day.

  Storm took her place beside Jeff at the serving table as the television crews took pictures of them serving the crowd. AYes, this certainly is a full house tonight,@ one of the servers remarked. Everyone was happy. Later when the cleanup was underway he walked through the cafeteria chatting with those who lingered. A woman, named Mary sat patiently in a wheel chair waiting for him to come to her. She had been immobile for ten years with a bad hip. Jeff spent considerable time running his hands over her body, touching her, and assuring her that God had heard her prayers. He said, AMary I want you to come tomorrow. I’ll make sure someone is there to help you. It’ll be good for you to get out.@ She assured him she would participate.

  Storm was standing to the side watching him. When it was all over she approached. AI can see now why you’ve become so well thought of here. You have a gift of making these people happy. In fact, ‘you’ are the gift. I’m proud of you. I’ll see you tomorrow morning.@ She turned and left the building.

  *

  Jeff=s mom greeted him as he came in the back door. AWe’re having guests for dinner tonight.@

  AWho’s coming,@ he asked?

  AYour sister is.@

  AMelissa! Is she coming in from California?@

  AYes, Dad=s picking her up at the airport right now. They’ll be home about seven. Sarina also called to see if you were meeting her at the jazz club tonight. I invited her to dinner also,@ she said excitedly. AYou just have time to clean up before they arrive.@

  AI was so busy I totally forgot about Sarina. Thanks for inviting her. What are you cooking, Mom? It smells so good. It’s making me hungry.@

  ALasagna, it’s your favorite.@

  AI’ll change clothes and be down to help,@ he said bounding up the steps. Having forgotten about his date with Sarina he was glad she called. He was helping to set the table when his sister popped in with her luggage, Dad following behind.

  AThe plane was on time and we got out of the airport before all the heavy traffic,@ his Dad explained happily.

  Melissa, all smiles, stretched out her arms to greet Jeff and her Mother. They were busy talking, everyone wanting to know about California when Sarina rang the door bell. Again there was another round of hugs. Melissa and Sarina had grown fond of each other over the years and began conversing, leaving Jeff and his Dad out of the conversation. The two men adjourned to the den to wait until dinner was ready.

  Finally dinner was served. When it came to home cooking, Jeff’s mom was the Chef Supreme. Italian food was his favorite and he had second helpings of everything. It was delicious and the cook was praised by all. ADinner was excellent, Mom,@ Jeff congratulated her. AYou haven’t lost your touch.@

  When the evening news came on the first segment was about the homeless march and Jeff was profiled. He felt embarrassed not wanting the fame that had been thrust upon him. If he was to help people he didn’t want to do it for the notoriety and Sarina knew it. She saw him squirming during the news cast.

  AYou gave a good speech,@ his Mom replied. AYou’ve learned a lot in speech class.@

  His Dad spoke up. AYes, son, you are going places and we’re proud of you.@

  ADad,@ Jeff responded, AI’m not doing this to be successful or for fame.
I’m doing this to help people. That’s my focus.@

  AYes, but we’re still proud of you.@

  *

  Later they were all sitting in the den when Melissa spoke up. ARemember how I’d tell Mom on you when you did your magic tricks?@

  AYes, you never let me get away with anything. Kevin thought it was funny and laughed, but you’d always tattle on me. The more you tattled, the more I did it.@

  AYou used to float dishes out of the cupboard and I was jealous I couldn’t do it. You were getting all the attention, and since Mom and Dad didn’t want you to use your magic in the house, I’d squeal on you. I remember the time you lost concentration. A plate fell and broke.@

  ADid you really?@ Sarina inquired.

  AYes, Melissa jumped up and tickled me.@ They all laughed.

  AMother wasn’t laughing though. It was her best china. Now your magic is helping people and I’m happy you didn’t give it up,@ Melissa remarked.

  Jeff couldn’t be angry with his sister. She was getting to look more like Mother every day with her sandy brown hair, blue eyes and broad face. ANow we are older and it doesn’t matter. You’re my sister and I love you.@ He replied winking at her.

  AIt’s getting late,@ Sarina spoke up. AI need to be going. Thanks for inviting me over Mrs. Martin. Tomorrow is a big day. Do you want to meet along the parade route?@

  AThat would be fine,@ they all agreed and Sarina departed. At the door Jeff thanked her for coming over.

  AI’m glad you were here,@ he whispered in her ear as he slid his arm around her. They walked to her car and kissed good night.

  *

  The next morning Jeff was at the Soup Kitchen conversing with the homeless when the buses pulled up to take them to the park. They let those who needed help on the buses first and then waited a few minutes for any stragglers before pulling out. Some of them carried the cardboard signs they used to pan handle for money. When one asked Jeff if it was okay he agreed that signs were good at marches, yet he thought they lacked enthusiasm. Maybe they didn’t understand the importance of the march. He hoped once the march began they would liven up and speak out for their cause.

  The buses pulled up on the north end of the park where officials had already gathered. Convertibles were lined up to take the dignitaries, and Storm was there to greet them. She motioned for Jeff to join her.

  AGood morning Mrs. Storm,@ he shouted as he approached. AHow are you?@

  AIt’s a great day for a parade!@ She replied. AWould you like to ride with me in the lead car?@

  AThanks but no thanks. I should be with my people. It’s important that I walk with them for moral support. They feel comfortable with me around.@

  AI understand, but this is a big opportunity for you to be seen and make a name for yourself.@

  AI’m not really interested in making a name for myself. It’s the plight of the homeless that concerns me the most, not that I=m seen.@ He didn’t want to offend her. In her way she was helping the poor but to him it was grand standing.

  Storm smiled concealing her displeasure. She had really wanted Jeff ride with her, but she understood. AJeff, you are right. Lead your group and cheer them on?@

  AGreat idea! I’ll do just that,@ he replied as he turned and walked back to his group. He had never seen homeless people stand up for their rights, but when he raised his hands the group came to attention.

  In a loud voice he spoke to the marchers. AThis is your parade and your chance to let the public know your plight? You need food and shelter, but most of all you need work. You have a right to be able to earn a living like everyone else. We want the public on your side. Let them know your feelings. If we are ever to get ahead here is our opportunity.@ He wanted the marchers to know he was with them all the way. Picking up a banner he raised it shouting, AWill you march with me?@ A cheer went up and he now felt they were ready. He appointed a husky young man to push Mary in her wheel chair and the parade began.

  The Salvation Army Band played their theme song, leading the parade. They were followed by cars holding the dignitaries. Storm=s convertible was first. It looked so natural her sitting in the back seat waving at the public. A group of homeless folks had organized a band which had played occasionally at the Soup Kitchen followed the cars, and Jeff=s group was last. The bands took turns playing, setting the mood for the marchers.

  Colfax Street was lined with people on both sides, and marchers proudly waved at them as they passed. Cop cars were at every major intersection stopping the cars wanting to cross. About half way to the State Capitol Building he saw his whole family standing at the curb. Even his brother, Kevin showed up. Sarina was with them. They waived at him as he passed. A few blocks further he saw Bobby and Heidi together and waved at them. He wondered why he hadn’t seen Bobby lately. Now he knew why. He failed to notice the two AIA agents that stood in the shadows of a building quietly observing the parade.

  At the Capitol Building the platform had once again been set up with chairs and a podium. When the last marcher arrived the dignitaries had already taken their places on the stage. Storm approached the podium and gave a rather long speech about the plight of the homeless. Then several other dignitaries gave talks about a bill the state senate was working on and finally Storm introduced Jeff. It left very little for him to say so he made it short.

  AMy name is Jeff Martin.@ There was a moment of silence as he gathered his thoughts. He hadn’t prepared a speech and felt those ahead of him had already said most of it. He didn’t want to be redundant. AI’ve been helping out at the Soup Kitchen for some time. Lately a few of the homeless have been cured of ailments which they have attributed to me, but I’m not a miracle worker. I just touch and pray for them. Anyone can do that, but people don’t believe they can make a difference. Let me assure you anyone of you can make a difference in the life of a homeless person. You ‘can’ make a difference. The Soup Kitchen is full of volunteers making a difference, and you can help.

  Our thanks go to Leslie Storm today for making this march possible. Without brave people like her who take risks we would have no voice. The general public sweeps us under the rug, wants us out of sight. They don’t want us standing on the corner pleading for help. They consider us blight on the community. They don’t realize we are part of the community. If we can’t work together we all lose. No one wins.

  Today is our day, our moment. Yes, we need money for food and shelter, but we need our dignity more than anything. We want jobs and we can only do that with your help. The Soup Kitchen needs more food and volunteers. The shelters need more beds, and the charities need more donations and assistance. It’s not going to get better until we all get involved. We’re asking for your help now. Thank you.@

  The homeless people had listened intently to his message and vigorously applauded when he finished. Stepping away from the podium he was glad it was over. He would find out later how it was interpreted by the media. Storm congratulated him on his speech and left just as Sarina approached.

  Her face was aglow as she walked up to Jeff. AWould you like to sneak away and get something to eat,@ she remarked?

  AYes, I would, but my brother and sister are in town and I feel I should go home to be with them. Would you like to come over? Mom has food waiting for us, and she’d love to see you again.@

  AOkay,@ Sarina said linking her arm in his. Together they marched back up the street to their cars passing two suspicious people standing in the alley.

  AShould we detain him now?@ Cleaver asked her partner.

  ANo, there’s too much commotion. We need to catch him when he’s alone,@ replied Jones, “Maybe tomorrow.”

  Chapter 5

  Jeff had only ten minutes after class to get to the Soup Kitchen before the evening meal started. Flinging his books in the back seat of his Honda he pulled into traffic. It was only a few miles, but sometimes traffic was b
acked up heading into town. Fortunately today he made all the lights and got there right on schedule. He believed in promptness. When he entered the back door the cooks congratulated him for making the Sunday fund raiser a success. The publicity had generated a lot of food donations and several companies had sent over much needed supplies. They were most appreciative, not having to scrimp as they often did. Besides, the homeless had fun mingling with all the marchers.

  Jeff manned the chow line and as the diners filed by many called him by name as he spooned mashed potatoes on their plates. Some took advantage of his friendship asking for another scoop.

  After people ate many lingered at the tables making it difficult for others to find a seat, but finally all were accommodated. Jeff ventured into the cafeteria after the line closed down only to find more people waiting to see him. Most were spectators wanting to watch him perform his healing magic, but some had real medical concerns wanting help. Laying his hands on several he prayed with them and gave them his blessing. It took a while, but finally they were satisfied, and Jeff found himself alone.

  Leaving by the back door he walked directly into the path of the two AIA agents, too late to do his disappearing act. AWe’d like to talk to you Mr. Martin, downtown at headquarters. Just a few words, that’s all we want, if you don’t mind,@ Jones said in a deep official sounding voice, flashing his badge.

  Jeff was reluctant to go with them. They weren’t the police, but with the Patriot Act passed by Congress, he could be detained for no reason. He wasn’t afraid of these two, but was concerned because he didn’t know what to expect. He tried to act relaxed so they wouldn’t treat him harshly. ASure, no problem. I’ll go with you.@ Jones walked on one side of him and Cleaver on the other ready to grab him should he try to get away.

  They took him to an office in the Federal Building on the third floor. Typical government issued desk and chairs; the private office was a lifeless hole in the wall. It had no plants or pictures, and was barely large enough to seat a half dozen people. Once seated, Jones proceeded to question Jeff. AThe reason we want to talk to you is because your name is on a list of people to be interviewed.@