Finding Hope by K Broas Read Free Book Online Page B

paper, oblivious to the dangers in modern life.
    “Let’s get some ice cream. All I’ve been eati ng is fufu fish and vegi-trays. I neeeeeed sugar,” Jason complained.
    They snuck into the busy café trying not to be noticed by the urban dwellers. Upon getting the ir creamy treats the two boys sat down in the darkened room.
    “Ah, frozen yogurt with fruit, sprinkles, and fudge. The world’s crackin’ up but the treats almost make it worthwhile,” Jason said as he lapped up his desert.
    “Sure looks like you’re OK with it. Ya got it all over your chin, ya slob,” Isaac replied with mixed emotions of annoyance and admiration. “Don’t you care what you look like?”
    Jason grabbed one of the napkins Isaac had taken and said, “Who cares, we don’t know any of these losers.”
    They sat and ate, talking about past trips they’d been on and people they knew. In the small urban café they stuck out like farmers in a law office.
    “Wait here, I want to get something for later. My mom never lets me get this stuff . I want to sneak some back,” Isaac said trying to be like Jason. “I’ll be back in a second.”
    As Isaac left to go to the counter, Jason sat and finished his frozen yogurt. Sipping the remaining bits he noticed the people in the café more closely. The surroundings were busy and vibrant. It looked like a scene pulled directly from a Hollywood movie, but somehow it was different. The room was full – tables packed with strangers aligned in small groups, living and laughing together. Despite the company they shared, each individual seemed distracted and alone. Each interaction seemed shallow and nobody was engrossed in conversation. Every minute or two, Jason noticed everyone was looking away texting or surfing on their mobile devices. The room appeared surreal as the low light and candles were cheapened by glowing blue light coming from LCD screens that were concealed in everyone’s lap. The scene was ridiculous. These disconnected people looked like small children telling a horror stories with flashlights under their chins, but much more pitiful. Jason wondered to himself, who are all these people were talking to? Was there someplace they’d rather be?
    “Alright let’s get out of here and head back. My mom’s gonna be looking for me soon,” Isaac said holding a little white bag full of goodies.
    As they walked back to the hotel, Jason couldn’t shake the image of the disconnected customers. All around him he saw people completely oblivious to the wonder of life as they slid their fingers across their mobile screens. He couldn’t quite figure out what he was feeling, but the image was seared into his sixteen year old mind.
    “Wait here, I’ll be back in just a second,” Isaac said as he crossed the busy street.
    “Where ya going man? Your mom will be pissed if I come back without you,” Jason said still contemplating the disconnected people around him.
    “I just got to do something. Just give me a second,” Isaac said as he jogged to market on the corner.
    “Hey, I hope it’s OK. I don’t have any cash, but I got you something,” Isaac said as he handed the white bag to the young boy. “It’s just a couple muffins and a sandwich.”
    Noticing that Isaac was talking to her son, the begging mom rush ed to his side. “What’s this?” she said annoyed and leery.
    “I just thought you guys may be hungry and wanted to help out ,” Isaac explained becoming nervous. “It’s nothing, just a sandwich.”
    The mother softened by the gesture meekly replied, “Thank you.”
    As Isaac walked away he locked eyes with the young boy as he stuffed his mouth full of processed flour and refined sugar. Isaac knew his small gesture had made an impact.
    As Isaac walked into the lavish hotel room, his father was already back. The room was alive with activity. He could see in his father’s face that he had nailed the debate. Walking back and forth , he relived the event for the people in the