Saved for Ben
Book 1
by
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Ben cleared his throat and said, “Mom, my day was fine. I am doing well in my classes and I get along with my white classmates. But I’ve been thinking. I am 15 now and I would like to get a part time job. What do you think?”
Mom smiled and said, “You saw the bills, didn’t you?”
Ben stood up and said, “Yes ma'am, I saw them, but I was already thinking about working before I saw them. I was looking at the newspaper, but I didn’t see anything. I plan to walk around town after school tomorrow to see if someone has a sign in the window.”
Mom wiped her mouth with the back of her hand then said, “Ben, your dad would be very proud of you for wanting to work. I am too. I can’t believe it’s been five years since he died. But I have some issues about you getting a job.”
David said, “I told you Mom was not going to let you work.”
Mom gave David a look. This was the look that we all knew meant to shut up and be still. Mom raised her voice and said, “Don’t put words in my mouth David.”
Mom continued with a stern voice, “I think it’s a great idea, I just have some stipulations:
1. Your grades can not drop, you are an A student, I don’t expect anything less. You have to keep your grades up so you can go to college.
2. You have to be home from work by 7 pm. I don’t want you working too late. That way you can eat dinner with us and have time to do your homework.
3. You can work on Saturday, and on Sunday after church for a few hours. But I don’t want you working more than 25 hours a week.
4. I know you want to help out, but I will not take all of your money. The first 10% will go to the church as your tithes each time you get paid. You can give me 35% of what you make to help pay the bills. You must save 25%, that leaves you 30% to do as you please.
5. Whatever job you choose, you must give 100% to any task you are assigned.
6. You are not to take anything away from the job location unless it is given to you.
7. I want you to work hard and learn all that you can.
8. Show your boss that you can be trusted and depended upon.”
Mom continued, “If you can find a job that fits my stipulations, and they hire you. You have my blessing and support.”
Looking at David, Mom smiled and said, “See you don’t know me like you thought you did?”
Everyone laughed.
Mary touched Mom on the arm. Mom acknowledged her. Mary said, “What does stipulation mean? I’ve never heard that word.”
David explained, “Stipulations means conditions that have to be met.”
Mom smiled and said, “That's right David. Ben at any time that you can’t meet my conditions, you will have to stop working. Is that clear?”
Ben acceded and said, “Yes ma’am. Thank you, Mom!”
David interjected, “Mom, when I get 15 will I have those same stipulations?”
Looking at David and Mary, Mom said, “Yes, you both will.”
Mom laughed. Looking at Ben she said, “One more thing, finding a job will not be easy. It’s 1972. You’re a black teenager with no experience and not many places are willing to give you a chance. We live in Fairville a small town. Unfortunately, everyone is not very fair. There are not many opportunities for black adults, so don’t be disappointed if you can’t find a job right now. God will continue to take care of us and if it is meant for you to work, he will provide you with the right job. Now let’s finish this delicious meal.”
Wiping her mouth with the back of her other hand, Mom said, “David, if Ben gets a job, that means that you are going to have to cook dinner. You think you can handle that?”
David almost choked and said, “Me, cook? Uh, I guess I can. Will you practice with me or write down some instructions for me?”
Mom laughed and said, “Of course I will. We still have the recipe cards that I gave Ben when he started cooking.”
Mary exclaimed, “I want to help too. I can cook a few things now!”
Mom smiled and said, “Yes you can help, but it will be David’s responsibility to make sure everything is prepared.”
Smiling David said, “Mom, I don’t mind her helping. I may need it!”
Mom continued, “However, on the afternoons that Ben is home, it will still be his responsibility to cook. Everyone understand?”
Everyone smiled.
Mom said, “Ben, you will still have to do your other chores in the house. Just because you work does not eliminate your responsibilities around the house.”
David interjected, “Yeah, and don’t expect me to do them. I already have to cook.”
Ben laughed and said, “I will Mom, I can’t wait for David to cook his first dinner!”
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About the Book
This book is about Ben Davis, a black teenager, who lives in a small town known as Fairville, Georgia, and wants to help provide for his family and community. Ben is being raised by a widowed mother, with a younger brother named David, and a younger sister named Mary. The story begins in August 1972, a time when schools were initially integrated in the south. This small town is a perfect example of life where racial differences were in the forefront. Ben discovers awesome and unexpected opportunities through Mr. Cason, who became his first employer and mentor. In this coming of age story, Ben starts to discover all that God has saved for him. This book series is not only heartwarming, family focused, and biblically sound. It is full of life lessons and guidance. It is a great educational resource for teenagers to adults. It can easily be utilized in a classroom setting or for those that enjoy personal inspiration. It is a growth opportunity in wisdom and faith. Check it out!
About the Author
Jacquelyn B. Smith is a God-fearing, anointed, gifted, woman of God. She has enjoyed a wonderful life, starting in a small town in Georgia, being raised in the church and Sunday School. She received a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Data Processing from Florida A&M University, then was commissioned as an Ensign in the United States Navy. While on active duty she earned her Masters of Science Degree in Management from Troy University. After 20 years of military service, she retired as a highly decorated Lieutenant Commander and currently resides in Pensacola, Florida where she is an active member of her church and Christian Education Ministry. Her books are fictional but have a non-fiction appeal. She is a wife, sister, aunt, niece, and a loving and gifted mother to her son, Jeremy.