Welcome to Pauly's
By Peggy BarnellSummary
A small-town diner called Pauly’s provides the setting where several lives regularly intertwine. A cast of colorful characters sort through the joys and struggles of every day life during the Christmas season. A variety of scenarios are taking place: a newly widowed man struggles with grief, a young pastor questions if he is really doing God’s work, a woman becomes convicted about an immoral relationship, and the town gossip wants to be in the middle of it all.Characters
Pauly – Wise and kind owner of the diner (could be male or female)Stump – Short guy,(or could be a girl) rough and tough short order cook
Tree – very tall waitress –she’s a cross between Flo and Vera from Mel’s Diner – not so bright, but has a temper and a major attitude
Jasmine – Town gossip and salesperson of Merle-Fay Health and Beauty products (very polished and wears lots of make-up)
Hank – Young local pastor
Sarah – Hank’s pregnant wife
Ashley – woman age 20 - 40
Caleb – man, slightly older than Ashley
Ed – Truck driver
Jim – Recent widower
Mother, Father, Victoria & Valerie – obnoxious family
Several others are needed for non-speaking roles, to walk on and off and be served in the diner.
Script
Scene I(All scenes are present day and take place in, or just outside the diner. Scene opens, Pauly comes out to wipe off a table/take down a chair/prepare for the day. She realizes there is an audience, and turns to address them.)
Pauly: Oh, hello! Welcome to Pauly’s. This is it…the place where the coffee’s always hot and the smiles are always warm. The local hot spot, or hang out, or whatever you want to call it. It’s where people come in this town. Folks on their way to work and on their way home. Kids meet parents for a meal, young women meet for lunch, old men gossip, trade newspapers and drink coffee. Older women gossip about old men. If it’s happening in town, somebody will be talking about it here at Pauly’s. By the way, I’m Pauly. Okay, I know what you’re thinking. My name is Freda Winkin, not Polly, or Pauline or anything like that. But when I bought the diner several years back, people just started calling me Pauly because of it. The owner before me was called Pauly, and that wasn’t his name either. Somewhere years back, there was a guy named Paul, built this place and ran it. Every owner since then has always been called Pauly. Go figure!
It’s time to get ready for the day. Our special this morning is corn beef hash with a couple of eggs. Not so good for the old waist line, but pretty good for my pocketbook, if you know what I mean. People love corn beef hash - and they love to hash, as well. My, the talk that goes on here! But, I’ve learned how to keep quiet. Discretion is important when you’re in a position like mine.
Mornings are pretty hectic around here, usually the busiest part of the day. (checks her watch) Tree and Stump should be here in a few minutes to start work. What a pair they are! Some days, I think I spend more time playing referee than running this place! I inherited them when I bought the diner. You’ll see in a minute how they got their nicknames. I’ve been told that Tree and Stump have been bickering since the first time they laid eyes on each other. I suspect they really do like each other, though neither one would ever admit it. And after working together all these years, I think they need each other, too. But that’s one subject I won’t bring up with either of them. The Lord above made us all unique, that’s for sure! I see all kinds of characters in the course of a day.
Well, listen to me, going on and on when I need to be getting a few things done. We’ll talk later.
(People, crowds enter along with Tree, Stump and Ed..Ashley enters and sits alone)
(Good place for a big song here by your choir)
Tree: Okay, Stump, listen up. I need three specials - one with eggs over easy, two sunny side up, two orders of French toast – easy on the butter. I need two #1’s, a #4, and a #6 with extra gravy on the side. Is the decaf ready? And by the way, where’s MY coffee? You know I need MY coffee first thing.
Stump: (Angry) Get the orders on the clip in the order you took ‘em. You know how I feel about you shouting first thing in the morning, Tree.
Tree: Maybe you didn’t hear me, STUMP. Where’s my coffee?
Stump: The second pot is brewing right now and you can check on it just as easy as I can. Who nominated YOU “Princess of Cedar Grove”?
Customer: (Calling out to Tree) Miss, could I please have juice instead of mil-
Tree: (Cuts her off) PRINCESS??? Don’t start with me this early in the morning, Stump! My alarm didn’t go off again and I –
Stump: How long can you use that excuse? Don’t you think it’s about time you got a new alarm?
Customer: Excuse me, but about that juice that I…
Tree: (shouts at the customer) What?? (realizes she’s snapped at the customer, becomes very sweet) I’m so sorry, ma’am. Of course, juice is just fine. We’ll switch that. (Turns and stalks towards Stump) Now, you listen to me, you little runt-
Pauly: (Interceding, steps in her path) Tree, I’ve been meaning to ask you about the new scent you’re wearing. That’s not your usual “Vanilla Fields”. You’ve changed something.
Tree: (Suddenly off the warpath) Oh, you like it? Yeah, I thought I’d try something different. It’s called “Apricot Flaming Fruit Glaze”. This is one of those fragrances Jasmine sold me.
Pauly: Very nice, very light. Well, we’re gonna have a full house this morning. (Nods toward the door) Incoming. I’ll put them at Table 2 and take their order. Why don’t you get those orders on the clip for Stump and get refills to Table 4? (Pauly stops on her way to greet newcomers and pats Ed on the shoulder) It’s gonna be one of those days, Ed, I can see it already.
Ed: I don’t know how ya manage those two, Pauly. (Pauly goes to greet and seat the newcomers. Ed turns to Stump) Hey, Stump, is my special about ready? I’m on a deadline this morning.
Stump: Comin’ right up! I’ll even bring it out to you myself. (As he brings the order) Where ya headed today, big guy?
Ed: Gotta be in Detroit by 3 today – hauling parts for some submersible motors that are waiting on a production line.
Stump: Well, you take it easy out there. None of that lead foot stuff in the kind of weather we’ve been having. (Stump turns and nearly runs into Tree)
Tree: How many times do I have to tell you? I do the waitin’ on tables. All you have to do is stay back in your little cubbyhole and pump out the food.
Stump: Get outta my way, you long, tall telephone pole. (To himself) I don’t know why I have to put up with that woman – try to do a good thing and help out a little and see where it gets you!
(Tree turns to Ed with hands on hips)
Ed: Lighten up, Tree. Stump is just trying to help you out.
Tree: Help, my foot! He’s jealous of the big tips you always leave me. (Stump chuckles)
Ed: Now, you know I won’t forget my favorite waitress, don’t ya?
Tree: (Pats him on the shoulder) Oh, Ed, sometimes I think you should ride on a white horse instead of in that big old truck.
Ed: So…you want me to swoop you up and ride off into the sunset?
Tree: HA! (She loves this) Sunrise, maybe. Considering the hour that my day starts, I usually can’t stay awake for sunset.
Pauly: (She’s been taking it all in and now she goes to greet a young man who has just entered) Morning! Table for one?
Caleb: (Looking around) No, thank you. I’m joining someone. (He goes to sit down with Ashley) Hi. (Takes Ashley’s hand)
Ashley: I was beginning to think you weren’t going to make it.
Caleb: Had some trouble getting away so early. Sorry.
Ashley: It’s okay. I’m not used to getting up quite so early myself.
Tree: What can I bring ya this morning. Coffee?
Caleb: Yes, please. Coffee would be good. And I’ll just have some sausage and scrambled eggs.
Ashley: I’ll have the same.
Tree: You got it! (To Ashley) I’ll bring you back a refill too. Listen up, Stump…(she swaggers in his direction as she talks) I need two #3’s on the double. (She then clips the order on the wheel)
Ashley: (looking around) Caleb, what are we doing in this place?
Caleb: Last time we met, you know at Clover’s, I thought I saw someone… I just don’t want to take any chances. And I want to be able to relax when I’m with you.
Ashley: I had to drive 45 minutes to get here. It’s the middle of nowhere.
Caleb: That’s kind of the point. The middle of nowhere is a good thing.
Ashley: Well, how did you find this place? Have you brought other girlfriends here?
Caleb: Whoa….where did that come from? You know there haven’t been any other girlfriends.
Ashley: So you tell me.
Ashely: Baby….Hon…
Pauly: How’s everybody doin’ this morning? (They nod and smile) Tree, is that coffee coming?
Tree: Comin’ right up! Breakfast will be just a shake too.
Pauly: (After an awkward silence) Sorry if I interrupted. Welcome to Pauly’s. Door’s always open.
Ashley: Thank you. (pause) I tried to talk to you about this last time. I just have trouble with the fact that… I guess I’m having a few doubts.
Caleb: What do you mean, doubts? About us? About me? Aw, honey, I know this has been hard for you, but it’s hard for me too.
Ashley: I’m just getting very tired and impatient. When this all began, it seemed pretty simple.
Caleb: All relationships get a little complicated.
Ashley: (Angry) Most relationships aren’t complicated by one party being married to someone else! (A few people look around)
Caleb: Sh-h-h-h... Not so loud.
Tree: (returns to the their table) I forgot to ask, white or wheat?
Caleb: Wheat, for both of us.
Tree: And just so you know, the grape jelly’s my favorite. It tastes just like homemade! (she walks away)
Caleb: Look, we’ve been through this several times.
Ashley: I know we’ve been through this, but I have yet to see any action to back up all your words. And in the meantime, I’ve started feeling… the only way to describe it is guilty.
Caleb: GUILTY?
Ashley: YES! GUILTY! I don’t know why. I guess… I do know that in the beginning, it was easy. I was so enamored with you. I thought you were the perfect man – everything I wanted. When you told me that you were (looks around) married, I didn’t think it would make a real difference. You said all the right things – all the right words. But since then, I’ve seen her – you and her together. And I think about the two of you… And then I think, what kind of perfect man would be seeing me while he’s married to someone else?
Caleb: Ashley… Ash… (takes her hands) that’s just fatigue and anxiety talking. I didn’t plan to fall in love with you. We didn’t plan this. It happened. And I will follow through, I will. Just give me some time. Major changes don’t happen over night.
Ashley: I don’t know why I brought it up. I really don’t want to talk about this right now.
Caleb: Good. I don’t either. I want to enjoy the time we have together.
(Jasmine breezes in, making her presence known to everyone)
Jasmine: Good morning, Good morning, everyone! Whew, it’s bitter out there! Nice and warm in here though. How ya doin’, Sam? Hey, Ed. Pauly, I heard about your corned beef special. You know how I love corned beef. Hey, Tree, I’ve got your perfume order. Hello over there, Susan. How’s the hubby? I heard about the gout. Oooh, I know how that hurts! George, how you doin’ today? I’m so glad you didn’t have to stay in the hospital long with that pneumonia. You know, the Merle-Fay Cosmetics and Vitamin line I sell has a supplement that would help boost up that old immune system of yours. Think about it. Tree, where’s my –
Tree: (Sets coffee down for Jasmine) Coffee? It’s right here, Jasmine. Cream and lots of sugar, just like ya like it.
Jasmine: Thank you, Tree. You are a dear. Oh, here’s your perfume order, “Wild Cactus Dewdrops”. Did I tell you that with your next order of $20 or more from the Merle-Fay line of products, you’ll receive a free makeup bag – which is a $25 value. Here’s the catalog. (Stump steps out to get coffee) Hey, Stump, how’s my favorite short order cook? (Stump tries to ignore Jasmine) Don’t forget my offer for a free make-over anytime you like! (To Tree) Stump's neighbor told me that one of his girls was out till past 2 a.m. this past weekend and that the arguing went on for an hour after that when she finally did get home!
Tree: Really? Well, what was his neighbor doin' up at 2 a.m.?
Jasmine: Well, how would I know? I don’t pry into other people’s business, for goodness sakes! Probably all the commotion woke her up. Now, how bout some of that breakfast special? Pauly…come on over here when you get a minute.
Pauly: Jasmine, you’re out awful early spreading your cheer.
Jasmine: You know me, Pauly, I just want to be a blessing. (Big sigh) And, I’m doing business, as usual. I hate to brag, but I AM in the regional top 10% of sales “persons” for Merle-Fay’s health and beauty products. And, the top 2 sales persons get an all-expense paid trip to Dollywood at the end of the fiscal year. My director says I’ve got it in the bag. But, I have to continually fight to stay on top. It’s dawg eat dawg. But anyhow… Oh, I don’t know if you heard, but I guess there is a little trouble in paradise for one of our local preachers.
Pauly: Jasmine, is this gonna be on of your –
Jasmine: Now, now, now, now, listen….the reason I’m talking to you about it is because he’s a friend to you. Maybe you can help him, you know, give him advice or something. (Pauly just looks at Jasmine) It’s Hank. Hank and Sarah.
Pauly: What?!
Jasmine: (Looks around) You heard me. Hank and Sarah are having problems with their marriage.
Tree: (Tree has come with Jasmine’s plate) Hank and Sarah are having marriage problems??? (A few heads turn)
Jasmine & Pauly: Shhhhhhhhhh!!!!
Tree: (whispers now) Hank and Sarah are having marriage problems?
Jasmine: Sarah’s sister told her cousin all about it. You know Eileen. Well, Eileen never could keep a secret. Sooo, she told the girl she works with, Betty Duncan. And I overheard Betty talking to a couple a ladies about it when I was getting a haircut over at the walk-in place on Walnut.
Pauly: Now, listen, Jasmine. That’s a third or fourth hand story you’re repeating. It might not even be true!
Tree: (interested) So, what kind of trouble?
Jasmine: Finances are the root of it, the way I understand. Hank has been working so hard tryin to make a go of it down at Holy Trinity. You know that church has been struggling for years. Everybody thought that when Hank and Sarah came, they would be able to turn things around there. Lord knows they’ve tried. (During Jasmine’s little spiel, Tree picks up an order and nearly tosses it at a customer nearby so she can get right back to hear every word) But membership is down, giving is down, why four members died this year and three moved away! So, anyway, I guess Hank is pretty depressed over the whole thing. Now with the baby on the way, you know Sarah’s gonna have to take some time off and EVERYONE knows she’s always planned on being able to stay home with her little ones. So, she’s putting some pressure on him, of course, and the way they’re talking, I guess he’s having doubts.
Pauly: Doubts?
Jasmine: He’s thinking of leaving the ministry.
Pauly and Tree: NO!!!!!
Jasmine: Yes. He’s thinking maybe he shouldn’t even be a preacher. He’s having “a faith issue”.
Pauly: Well now, Jasmine, for all we know, that could be idle gossip. You know how stories get blown out of proportion. You shouldn’t be spreading it any further! And even if there is some truth in it, you know all people struggle at different times. We should be praying for them - NOT talking about the details of their problems behind their back.
Jasmine: I know that, Pauly, I know… That’s why I’ve told you…so you and Tree can pray for them.
Pauly: I see. Well, I will be praying for them. You can count on it.
Tree: Me, too! I’ll pray too.
Jasmine: Okay. Well, I’m gonna take my breakfast over to Ruthie’s table. I’ve got some business to do. (As she crosses to another table) Hello, Ruthie! You’ll never guess what I found out about one of our local preachers.
(Tree and Pauly look at each other and shake their heads as the lights dim to black).
Scene II
(Lights up outside the diner. Hank and Sarah enter together)
Hank: (peers into the dark diner windows) No sign of life yet. I forgot they don’t open till six. (looks at his watch)
Sarah: (sigh) Tell me again why we’re here so early?
Hank: Well, it was obvious that we weren’t going to be able to get back to sleep again. You said you were hungry. And I thought the brisk air might be a good thing – help us clear our heads.
Sarah: It’s certainly brisk. I’m freezing! (she rubs her hand together)
Hank: Here, (he attempts to put his arm around her) Let’s share a little body heat.
Sarah: (resisting) I really don’t feel much like snuggling.
Hank: Listen, Sarah. It’s obvious we have a serious disagreement going on. But we are going to find a solution - or a compromise. We will work this out.
Sarah: I just don’t see how we can agree. one of us might decide to give in, but I don’t see any possibility of a real solution. I’m usually the one who does the giving in, but I’m not doing it this time, Hank.
Hank: I don’t want you to just ‘give in’ to me, Sarah. We both need to believe the solution is the right one.
Sarah: It seems we just keep going over the same ground, again and again. Even if I take just a few weeks of maternity leave and go back to work part-time, it’s not enough. Extra expenses are coming, Hank, extra expenses. Our budget is stretched to the limit the way it is.
Hank: I know this isn’t working out the way that we planned.
Sarah: Now there’s the understatement of the year!
Hank: I know God has a plan. This pregnancy was not a surprise to God, even if it was to us.
Sarah: Well, I wish God would let me in on His plan – because sometimes I think you get the message mixed up!
Hank: Do you want me to quit, Sarah? Is that what you really want?
Sarah: Yes! (pause) No. (pause) I don’t know. I just want some assurance that this child is going to be taken care of – and I want to be the one to do it. I don’t want our baby spending 12 hours a day in a daycare somewhere.
Hank: I know how strongly you feel about this, and I agree with you. If things would just pick up a little at Holy Trinity, I know we could swing it. I know –
Sarah: Hank, you are not being realistic. Even if the giving suddenly picked up twenty percent, it would only mean that they could pay the electric bill on time. It wouldn’t mean they would have enough money to pay a regular pastor’s salary! We’re in an impossible situation. You’re on call 24/7. You spend fourteen hours a day away from home, caring for the needs of a sleepy congregation that is obviously dying out. You know what they say about dead horses.
Hank: Remember our vision, Sarah.
Sarah: Was it our vision? Was it? Or did I just believe in you?
Hank: I thought we shared the vision: a thriving church home, where people could be encouraged spiritually and grow closer to God.
Sarah: In this town? Hank, it’s time to come down out of the clouds. Your pregnant wife is supporting you while you chase the end of the rainbow.
Hank: I –
Sarah: I’m really not hungry. I’m going home. (she walks away)
(Hank starts to follow, stops, shuffles around for a minute or two. Sits if there’s a place to sit. Stump enters. He's here to open the diner.)
Stump: Hey, Pastor Hank.
Hank: Oh, hi Stump.
Stump: Out and about awfully early, aren’t ya?
Hank: Yeah. No rest for the weary, you know.
Stump: Everything OK? I mean, no crisis or anything going on in town, is there?
Hank: No, no crisis that I know of.
Stump: You want coffee? I just need to get a few things ready to open up in here, but I can put some coffee on first thing.
Hank: Coffee sounds good. Thanks. (he follows Stump inside, takes off coat, pulls up a chair or stool)
Stump: Sure some winter we’re having, huh? I can’t ever remember this much snow before Christmas.
Hank: Yeah, heating bill was really high – home and church.
Stump: Hey, guess who was here in Pauly’s yesterday? (Hank shakes his head) Jim Gardner. I think it was the first he’s gone out in public since… you know, since Marilyn passed away.
Hank: I’m glad. He needs some people contact. I called on him last week.
Stump: Poor guy. You can tell he’s still pretty tender. Those wounds are fresh. (Stump gets a cup for Hank)
Hank: It’s hard to lose someone you love. (pause) Funny, after all those years together, Jim and Marilyn seemed a little alike.
Stump: I know what you mean. Me and my Abby almost finish each others’ sentences half the time. (Hank nods) I don’t know what I’d do without her though. How’s Sarah doin’?
Hank: Well she’s… doing OK.
Stump: It’s exciting having a little one on the way – especially the first one! (slaps Hank on the shoulder)
Hank: yeah, exciting (big sigh) and a little scary.
Stump: You’ll be a great dad! If you go after fatherhood like you do being a preacher, and Sarah being a nurse, that little one will turn out just fine.
Hank: You think?
Stump: Sure! You and Sarah are one of the best things to ever hit this town.
Hank: I don’t know about that.
Stump: Well, I do! You’ve made a difference here, Hank. You and Sarah – you’re a good influence. Maybe you don’t see it as much – but I know what things were like before you came.
Hank: Funny you should mention it… because lately I’ve been questioning whether I’m really doing God’s work here. It’s pretty discouraging sometimes.
Stump: (Thinks for a moment) What do preachers do when they get discouraged?
Hank: Pray a lot, for starters.
Stump: Well I can count off at least a dozen people you have helped in just the past year or so: There’s Stella Goodman, Regis Smith and his wife, I remember Theresa Hoffer –
Hank: I appreciate what you’re trying to tell me, Stump. But I don’t want to just help people. I want to see people changed and transformed by God’s love. God called me to Cedar Grove to make a difference here, not just impress people with what a great guy I am.
Stump: (pauses) Is there anything I can do for you, Hank?
Hank: I don’t know. Just pray for me, Stump. Pray for God to direct me.
Stump: You got it, buddy.
(Lights fade to black Suggested song: I Have Been There, by Mark Schultz. At the appropriate time during the song, characters step into a lighted area of the stage as the words that pertain to their particular situations are sung. I slightly changed the lyrics pertaining to the pregnancy/baby)
Scene III
(Lights up on a full diner. Every actor is in freeze-frame mode, except for Pauly. She moves around talking about some of the customers and addresses the audience.)
Pauly: It’s been a busy couple of days. Business is good. Oh I’m thankful, to be sure. But boy, oh boy, have my dogs been barking. (Looks at her feet, or rubs them together) The Christmas season is in full swing. Most everybody’s in good spirits, but at the same time, they’re a little edgy. Pressure on folks always increases around the holidays. You know how it goes. Gotta get that special giftyou’re your good friend Sue, and don’t forget cousin Tom, so he doesn’t feel left out. And of course, there’s all the get-togethers…
(Walks to a table with a family seated at it) Speaking of edgy, here’s one little family that could benefit from simplicity in their lives. You’ll see what I mean. But you can’t tell people that kind of thing, you know? Some things just have to be learned the hard way.
(Moves to a seated lone man) I’m so glad Jim is getting out again. He’s not had much to say, but we all know he’s still grieving. You can’t lose a wife after thirty years and not carry that loss and pain around with you for a long time after.
Over there is Bob and Rick – our local law enforcement. Cedar Grove’s finest. They’re good fellas, both of ‘em, but we like to give ‘em a hard time. Bob lost a son in Iraq this past spring. I’m not sure he’ll ever be the same.
Jake and Libby here welcomed twin boys into their home about three months ago. Joined the other four children they already have at home. I’m sure they’re glad for a little break from the home front action.
You’ve already met a few of the others. So many unique people represented in this place. It always amazes me just a little – the way different personalities with different circumstances can meet up on common ground in a place like this. It makes me believe that some of these meetings have to be orchestrated by the good Lord above. And maybe some things do simply happen by chance… I don’t know for sure.
Well, here we go again. (at this cue, action begins all over the diner)
Valerie: And I want a new cell phone – the kind that takes photos and does text messages and fits in your palm… I do need a new laptop for school, which by the way would come under the heading of necessities rather than gifts, so I hardly think that would be considered as part of my Christmas wish-list… I do know that they have Abercrombie jeans on sale until next month, and there is a new line of Air-Nikes out which my sports trainer recommends… but that’s another need-type item that –
Victoria: Well I have yet to get the Jade and Chloe bratz doll that I’ve repeatedly asked for.
Mother, I think that Valerie has stolen a few of my bratz dolls from my room… you know how obsessed she is, especially with all of my things. But I was thinking this would be a good time for us to talk about a computer of my own since Valerie got one when she was twelve and –
Valerie: Hello! I was much more mature at twelve than you were, Victoria. And I am not obsessed with anything, especially your things.
Mother: Now, now girls… let’s not argue right now. We’ve got a lovely shopping day planned and I don’t want to spoil –
Victoria: Mother, you know you promised me that I would get a computer for my room when I was twelve, and I turned twelve three weeks ago! Now when am I going to get a computer of my own?
Father: Victoria! Please don’t use that tone of voice when you’re addressing your mother!
Valerie: Hello! You’re all changing the subject. We were talking about my Christmas wish list. Now as I was saying, I will be starting driver’s training next year and I think this would be good time to discuss the type of car I’ll be needing…
Tree: (arrives with a tray loaded down) Here we go now – two sausage gravy and biscuits, one with scrambled, one stack of blueberry pancakes, two orders of French toast, and some extra-crispy bacon. Now how is –
Valerie: Ugh! I hate scrambled eggs and they’re touching my gravy! (tersely) I asked for my gravy on the side.
Victoria: Hey, what about my crispy bacon? I ordered bacon extra crispy.
Tree; OK, well honey, we’ll-
Valerie: What? What is… What is in this gravy? Is it a bug? I think it’s a bug!
Tree: (reaching for the plate) Let me see –
Victoria: Gag me like a maggot, there’s a bug in Valerie’s gravy!!
Father: Calm down, Victoria! Calm yourself. Let me see –
Tree: I don’t think it’s a bug –
Valerie: Get it away! Get it away now, Daddy!!! (both girls begin to shriek)
Mother: Oh dear, Frank…
Stump: (sticks his head out) What’s the matt –
Tree: (snatches the plate away) Look! It’s a tiny piece of sausage in the gravy – right there. See? It’s not a bug. (then to everyone) it’s not a bug!
Victoria: Oh.
Father: Well then…
Valerie: Would you please get me my gravy on the side and my eggs over-easy, like I ordered it?
Tree; (tersely) Of course, dear.
Mother: OK, let’s go ahead and eat, shall we? It’s going to be fun day for us, right?
Tree: (hands the plate to Stump) Give me two eggs over-easy, Stumpie, and burn that bacon!
Pauly: (has been watching the action – now goes over to sit down with Jim Gardner) Hey Jim, it’s sure good to see you. How are you doing?
Jim: I’m hanging in there, Pauly… kinda tough though.
Pauly: I’m sure. (pause) The girls? Have they been around?
Jim: Beth calls me every day. Guess she’s worried about her old dad. And April came over last week. She went through her mother’s closet – kept a few things and gave the rest to the Salvation Army box. (pause) Sure seems empty.
Pauly: The closet?
Jim: The closet, and everything else. (pause) I don’t know if I’ll be staying there for long. It just seems… I dunno… I feel a little lost in the house without her there. It seems awfully big. And it even smells different with Marilyn gone. Does that make any sense?
Pauly: Sure it does.
Jim: I’m not sure what I’m going to do, really. The home place has so many memories. I hate to think about leaving… but sometimes it hurts to have it all surrounding me.
Pauly: It’s early yet. You shouldn’t make any decisions right now. And listen to me. You have a lot of people in this town who care about you. I’m one of them. We’re here for you.
Jim: I know that. (he tears up) It’s just hard to talk about it.
Pauly: Have you thought about talking to someone… Pastor Hank, maybe?
Jim: I did - some. But I get so…it’s just hard for me.
Pauly: Don’t you be ashamed of what you’re feeling, Jim. You’re human. And you’ve had a huge loss. We’d all think it was unnatural if you didn’t shed some tears.
Jim: Thanks, Pauly. I don’t know… if I didn’t have that assurance that I’d be seeing Marilyn again someday… I don’t know how I could… (he’s really struggling to keep composed now)
Pauly: I know.
Tree: (comes over to pat Jim on the shoulder) Good to have you back, Jim. I’ve missed you.
(Enter Ed and Hank follows close behind. They both greet others as they enter.)
Pauly: Morning, fellas.
Ed: We’ve got weather on the way. I was scheduled to head out east this morning, but the radio says there’s an ice storm along the coast that’s causing all kinds of havoc. Weatherman says it’s headed this way.
(As Ed enters and makes his announcement to the diner, it works well if Ed has already been assigned a regular spot in the diner. Have a man setting in “Ed’s seat” when Ed enters and begins talking, then Ed can approach his seat and stand somewhat intimidating over the man until the man realizes he’s in Ed’s seat and scamper out of it so Ed can take his regular spot)
Rick: Just what we wanted to hear, Ed. Thanks. (some laughter)
Ed: Well I’m hoping it calms down some instead of gathering strength. It’s hard to make a living when I can’t go to work.
Stump: (sticks his head out from behind the counter) You can have my job, Ed. How about I trade ya? Pauly won’t mind, and I’ll be out on the open road, seeing the sights, meeting all kinds of people. (he makes big truck noises) King of the road!
Tree: Well you’d have to get an awful lot of handles for little ole you to climb up into that big ole truck… Or you could use the hydraulic lift on the back of the truck to lift you up so you could climb around to get in it, Stubbie!
Ed: Uh-oh…
Pauly: Now Tree, that’s not-
Stump: (huffing out into Tree’s path) OK, that’s it. (throws down a towel) How many times have I asked you politely not to call me Stubbie? My name is Stump!
Tree: (first bends over slightly to talk in Stump’s face, then turns away and tries to dismiss him) Stump, Stubbie, Shrimpie, Nubby… I have trouble remembering what I’m supposed to call you.
Stump: (grabs a chair and plants it in her path – he stands on the chair and sticks his pointed finger in her face) Now you listen to me, you… you… Jolly Green Giant! Is the air too thin up there for you to think straight? I ain’t been nothing but nice to you the past couple of days. Why do you always have to start something??
Pauly: Stump, get down off the chair. Tree, you know how that irritates him when you make up names – why do you feel you have to do that? (she looks around) Ed? Hank? Could you help, please?
Tree: Well we’ve already got law enforcement here. I think it’s obvious I’m being harassed and intimidated. Bob, don’t you think you should put the cuffs on the little fella here – take him down to the station for some interrogation? (Bob laughs and stands up as if he’s going to come after Stump)
Hank: I love coming here. You guys crack me up.
Stump: You haven’t begun to see harassment! (he gets off the chair) But you will if you keep calling me names!
Pauly: (points a finger at Ed) I don’t know why, but somehow your presence sets these two off.
Tree: (smiles sweetly at Ed) He does bring out the best in me, doesn’t he?
(enter Jasmine-making her presence known to all, as usual)
Jasmine: Hello, hello, good morning everyone… Bob, Rick… Ohh-h-h-h…looks like I just missed all the fun. What’d I miss, Pauly? What’d I miss?
Pauly: Just a little horseplay, is all. It’s over now.
Jasmine: Well hello, Pastor Hank. (gushy) How are you? (she heads for Hank, greeting others as she goes) Hi Ginny. Hey Ernie, that flu-bug is going around again – might want to stock up on my Merle-Fay supplements! Tree, I’ll just sit here with Pastor Hank for a while.
Hank: Good morning, Jasmine. (to Tree) I’ll have my usual, Tree.
Jasmine: Well now, Pastor, how ARE you? And how is your lovely Sarah?
Hank: Fine, we’re both fine.
Jasmine: We haven’t had a chance to chat much lately, and there’s a few things I want to be sure you’re aware of.
Tree: (approaches with coffee for them both) Here you go. What would you like today, Jasmine? Corn meal mush is the special.
Jasmine: O-h-h-h…. that sounds good to me. Oh Tree, do you have your Merle–Fay order ready? I don’t know if you noticed, but there’s a new scent available from the catalogue. It’s called Toasted Almond Extract of Hazelnut. It’s heavenly - (turns back to Hank) If you don’t mind me using that ｅxpression, Pastor. (laughs at her own stupid joke) Here’s a sample, Tree.
Tree: Thanks, Jasmine. I’ll get you my order.
Jasmine: Well, I have a few concerns that I just what to share with you, Pastor Hank. I wanted to be sure you were aware about Eric Reed – he just got a diagnosis of cancer – I guess Alice isn’t taking it too well. And Eileen Wilson got picked up in Marshall County for DUI – it’s gonna be all over town and I thought you should know about it before everyone else. I got a postcard from Carmen and Maria Sanchez –they were having a high old time in Florida, but now Maria’s back has flared up again. I don’t know what that will do to their trip… (pause) Oh and my neighbor, Joanne Rosewood… you know Joni, don’t you, Pastor? (she doesn’t wait for a response) Well the poor woman is about run ragged. Her elderly father has been in poor health for some time and Joni has just learned that her daughter that’s in college is pregnant. If you ask me, the girl didn’t get the kind of upbringing children need, what with Joni always being gone to take care of her father. She’s not home half the time. And now Joni’s son is running with a no-good crowd at the high school. I think he’s using drugs, though I have no solid proof of that. I just read between the lines of what Joni does tell me, if you know what I mean. And I can’t help but notice the kind of hours he keeps. So I just think there must me some way that you and Holy Trinity Church could help Joni… Lord knows we desperately need a youth program for the teens here in Cedar Grove. There’s nothing for them! Will there be one anytime soon? (doesn’t wait for an answer) Hey, maybe you could go talk to Joni sometime – or your Sarah could take her a meal or something like that…
Hank: Well Jasmine, I don’t believe I’ve met your friend, but I’m sure she’s thankful to have a neighbor like you to confide in. Maybe you could take her a meal like you suggested – and invite her to church.
Jasmine: (caught off guard) Me? Well I never thought about… I do just want to be a blessing. You know that - don’t you, Pastor?
Hank: Of course, Jasmine. I’ll pray for your friend. (he tries to turn away)
Jasmine: I’m not finished. There’s one other very important item I feel I must share with you. I’ve heard from a very reliable source that there is a man who holds an important position in Highpoint who regularly meets a young woman friend here in Cedar Grove.
Hank: Your point being?
Jasmine: Well the only way to say this is to just say it. (big sigh) He’s married. And I thought you would want to be aware of this immoral behavior that is going on right under our noses in our peace-loving little community.
Hank: I’m not sure that I really –
Jasmine: Now look here, Pastor, I think it’s your responsibility to.. to…
Hank: To what, Jasmine? Be a detective? I think you’ve got that one covered. I’m not the spiritual police department. Do I know these people? Do you?
Jasmine: I just assumed that you would want to be informed -
Hank: Of course I don’t condone that sort of thing – and I would love to help those people – IF your information is accurate and IF they came to me for help. But it would hardly be appropriate for me to form a posse and drive them out of town!
Jasmine: (ponders this for a moment) I see. Well, Pastor Hank, it appears our conversation is over. I need to speak with a few others here. (looks around) It’s been a pleasure. (her voice gradually gains volume now) And I do want you to know that I am well aware of your recent trials and tribulations.
Hank: I beg your pardon?
Jasmine: (now nearly shouting) You and Sarah and your marriage problems and your depression and all… and don’t you worry, it’s going to all work out just fine. (she’s off and running now) Heather, have you seen the new Merle-Fay catalogue? I happen to have one with me…
Hank: (to himself) Really? Does everyone in this town know my personal business?
Pauly: (comes over to Hank) Just consider the source, Hank. Consider the source. So how are you doing?
Hank: (still slightly agitated) I’m really doing OK.
Pauly: Ok, Ok.
Hank: I’m just trying to be patient… You know, waiting on God for some answers.
Pauly: Good for you. You’re in a tough place, but I admire the perseverance you’ve shown.
Hank: I just feel so sure that this is the place God wanted Sarah and I.
Pauly: Maybe it still is – or maybe God wants to use you in some other place or some other way. He’ll show you.
(Enter Ashley. Tree goes to greet her)
Tree: Good Morning. Table for one?
Ashley: For two, please. (she is seated)
Tree: Can I bring you something to drink?
Ashley: Juice, thank you.
Tree: Would you like to order or wait on your friend?
Ashley: (checks her watch) I think I’ll wait.
(a family or a few people leave while Ashley waits. Then her cell-phone rings)
Hello? Hi. No, I just got here. Uh-huh… Uh-huh… How long? (big sigh, shakes her head) No, I don’t think that will be necessary. (she looks around at the surroundings, then gets up and moves away from the more crowded section to continue her conversation. She moves close enough for Hank to take notice of some her dialogue) because. (pause) Because I planned to tell you this morning that I don’t want to see you anymore. (pause) No, listen to me. That’s not what it’s about anymore. I just can’t keep doing this. (pause) No, you’re not listening to what I’m trying to tell you. I can't continue like we have been. It’s no longer about promises or not knowing when I’ll see you the next time… It’s me… and it’s me and you together… Our relationship and what it’s built on is killing me on the inside. I… This is not what my life was meant for. (pause) Caleb, it’s been wrong from the start. (pause) No. It’s too late for that. That doesn’t matter anymore. (pause) Insane? No, I think I’ve had my first moment of sanity in a long time. (pause) No. Do not come here. There’s nothing more to talk about. (pause) I’m absolutely sure. Good-bye. (she pauses to collect herself, and then returns to the table to sit down. She then begins to cry softly)
Tree: Here’s your juice. Do you still want to wait… (she sees the tears) You OK, honey?
Ashley: (tries to compose herself) I’ll be all right. But I’ve decide to just drink my juice and go. My friend can’t make it after all. (she gets tearful again)
Tree: Anything you’d like to talk about?
Ashley: No. I’m fine, really.
(Tree walks away, unsure if she should do anything else. Hank has been observing Ashley. Tree gives Hank the nod and look, indicating he should do something)
Suggested Song: My Heart Goes Out by Warren Barfell. The song can be acted out and/or sung by Hank. At the end of the song, Hank approaches Ashley)
Hank: You seem upset, miss. I couldn’t help but notice.
Ashley: No. I’m OK. Thank you.
Hank: Pardon me for saying so, but you’re not very convincing.
Ashley: (laughs a little through her tears) I never was a very good actress.
Hank: I’m a pretty good listener. (pause) I don’t know what has you upset, but I can tell you that God knows. And He wants to help you with whatever you’re going through.
Ashley: Really?
Hank: God loves you. I do know that. (He pulls out a chair and sits down)
Ashley: (big sigh) Well, would you like to sit down ……?
Hank: I’m Hank. (extends a hand to shake hands with her, then sits)
Suggested Song: Spoken For, by Mercy ME While the song is sung, we watch Hank and Ashley converse, look at scripture, and toward the end of the song, pray together. Lights the fade to black out as the song ends)
Scene IV
(Lights up on the diner. Pauly and Hank are the only ones present. Pauly is preparing the diner for closing)
Pauly: So what did she say then?
Hank: She told me a little about having grown up in church – how she had strayed away from faith in Jesus as a teenager and young woman. She believes now that God was speaking to her about her poor choice in relationships almost as soon as it began. But she tried hard to ignore that still, small voice. Then when I approached her and began to talk to her about the love of God, she knew it was time to give her heart to Jesus Christ. She knew God had sent me to talk to her.
Pauly: Oh Hank, that is so exciting. I love to hear those kind of stories.
Hank: I wish you could’ve gotten a good look at her face, Pauly. Her whole countenance seemed to change. As we talked and prayed together, it’s like I watched as the light of Jesus began to shine in her and through her. She prayed the prayer with me to receive Jesus.
Pauly: Praise be. (pause) That’s got to give you a little bit of encouragement, too, Hank. Surely you know God used you today.
Hank: It’s the kind of thing I’ve prayed for… longed for. But I still don’t know… I just want God to make it clear where He wants me. This town, these people feel like home to me. But if this is God’s will, then what do I do, Pauly… about Sarah and the baby and… I have to be able to provide for my family.
Pauly: Hank, don’t you worry. If God wants you here in Cedar Grove, He’s big enough to take care of all the angles. Just trust Him and keep seeking Him.
Hank: I think I’ve prayed more in the past three months than I did in all my years in seminary.
Pauly: Prayer is a wonderful thing. Just don’t forget to listen, as well as talk when you’re praying.
Hank: H-m-m?
Pauly: Any good conversation requires some talking and some listening. A one-sided conversation really isn’t much of a conversation at all.
Hank: Yeah… yeah, Pauly… of course.
(Pauly goes on about the business of cleaning up. Hank pulls out a bible and begins to read and pray. Suggested Song: Word of God Speak, by Mercy Me. This song could be sung by Hank, or by another as Hank reads and listens for God)
Scene V
(Lights up on a sparse crowd at Pauly’s. Tree and Stump and Pauly mill about, a little bored. Ed is there, and one or two others. Sarah is there in a nurse’s scrub uniform)
Ed: I’ve never seen it so dead in this place.
Tree: You know it’s the ice storm. (looks outside and shudders) Most people with good sense are buckled down at home. Guess that leaves us out, huh?
Pauly: I doubt we’ll see much business today or tomorrow. You know, (to Tree and Stump) one of you could probably go on home if you wanted.
Stump: Don’t have to tell me twice. Hey Sarah – you want a ride home? It’s not much out of my way.
Sarah: No thanks. Hank is meeting me here. He should be here anytime.
Tree: (to Sarah) Did you have a hard day at the office, honey?
Sarah: No. The hospital’s really quiet. Census is low and not much incoming.
Tree: Must be even too cold for germs! (laughs at her own joke)
Stump: You’re about as funny as a heart attack, you know that, Tree-top?
Pauly: Stump, don’t spoil the peace and quiet. It’s kinda nice for a change.
Hank: (enters, seems excited, takes off coat, greets others, etc) Hey, honey. (kiss) O-o-o-h it’s cold! Can I get something hot to drink, Tree?
Tree: You got it.
Sarah: So how are –
Hank: We need to talk, Sarah.
Sarah: I know. There’s things we need to sort out.
Hank: Yes, we do. But first of all, I need to apologize to you. I need to –
Sarah: No, you don’t need to apologize, Hank. I should be the one doing that. I’ve placed enormous burdens on you – when you were already carrying so many.
Hank: No, no. In many ways, it was my own fault. I wanted so much to see God do a work here in Cedar Grove that I was trying to… help Him, you know?
Sarah: But I –
Hank: No. Listen to me, Sarah. I believe that the vision that God gave me… gave us… was genuine. This little community has so much ahead. God is at work in the hearts and lives of people here.
But I wanted to see things happen now. You know I’m not always patient… Somewhere along the line, I began to take on way too much personal responsibility to make it happen. And in that process I let my priorities get out of order. I was running ahead with my plans and asking God to bless them, instead of seeking His will and waiting on His timing. And I should have know better.
Sarah: It’s OK, Hank.
Hank: No. It’s not OK. I’ve been putting all my energy and focus on work. It’s not supposed to be like that. But now, the past couple of days have been good… really good. God has confirmed for me that this is where we are supposed to be, Sarah. This is our home. And God is using both of us here. But I need to get my priorities back in line. God first. You and the baby – next. Work at church comes after that. I’m convinced that if we sincerely seek God with all of our hearts individually and as a family, everything else will fall into place. God will bless our efforts here in Cedar Grove. He’s already begun.
Sarah: I’m with you, Hank. We’re a team – in this for the long haul.
Hank: I love you, Sarah, more than I ever have.
Sarah: I love you, too. And I’ve wanted to tell you… I’ve had such a peace that has just settled on me… I know everything is in God’s hands – that everything will work out.
Hank: Funny you should say that… (Sarah looks at him questioningly) I was busy at the church today – looking at what ministry hours I could cut back on so I could get a paying-job, but I just kept getting interrupted
Sarah: Yeah?
Hank: I had a couple of visitors. The first one was Jim Gardner. We had a god talk – a long talk. He really opened up to me, Sarah. And I think he got a few things settled with God.
Sarah: Oh, I’m so glad.
Hank: He still has a lot of healing to do, but he’s on the right track – I’m sure of it. And right after Jim left, someone else stopped in. (to all) I think everyone might like to hear this. (they all turn toward them or gather in) I was telling Sarah that one of our local businessmen came to see me today. He had several things to say. The most important was how much faith he has in what we’re trying to accomplish at Holy Trinity, Sarah. He believes God is at work through us – and he wants to be a part of it. We talked a long time about the needs of the church and how he can help, and we came up with a plan.
Pauly: A plan?
Hank: Yes, a financial plan, that he will implement. He is going to set up a fund on behalf of Holy Trinity, including some solid investments that he will oversee. Bottom line is – this plan will basically supplement the financial needs of the church for the next two–to-three years, including a full-time pastor’s salary.
Sarah: Oh, Hank! (she hugs his neck)
Hank: This will give us time for several of the things we’ve started to get off the ground, God willing.
Pauly: Well, who? Who is it?
Tree: Yeah, you’re killing us here. Who’s the generous fella?
Hank: I’m afraid I can’t tell you.
All: What? (exclamations from several)
Hank: That was one of the stipulations he gave me. He insists that he remain anonymous.
Stump: No way!
Sarah: I can’t believe it! This is wonderful!
Pauly: That Lord! Oh, and just wait until Jasmine gets wind of this. It will kill her not knowing!
Tree: What a merry Christmas!
Stump: God bless you two!
(people begin to congratulate Hank and each other, slaps on the back. Tree and Stump face each other, begin to hug, then hesitate and decide to go ahead and hug after all. The crowd backs away and leaves Hank and Sarah alone again)
Sarah: This is so wonderful, Hank.
Hank: There’s one more thing I have to say. I haven’t been very vocal about this baby... I just want you to know how happy I am. I know it’s kind of caught us by surprise, but I’m so excited about this child. You are going to be a wonderful mother – you already are. And I want so much to be good father… a godly father for our baby.
Sarah: You’ll be a wonderful father, Hank. I know it. (touches her tummy) Our baby… our little child..
(Suggested song: Welcome to Our World, as performed by Chris Rice. The first two verses of the song are sung by Hank to Sarah and baby. (I changed the lyrics slightly) The remaining verses can be sung by a random diner customer, or Ed, or Pauly – sung either to a nativity set that decorates the diner, or to a live Mary and Joseph and baby Jesus that enter downstage as lights dim on the diner.
At the end of the song, there is freeze-frame as Pauly addresses the audience for the final time.)
Pauly: one of the things I’ve come to love about running this place is that I get to share in peoples’ lives – their sorrows and joys and everything else in between. My life has become intertwined with theirs. Many are like family to me, and I love them dearly.
And of course, I can’t help but remember the reason for all this hustle and bustle of the Christmas season (she gestures toward baby Jesus) Several here in the diner have welcomed Jesus in somewhat the same way they have welcomed me. They’ve welcomed Him into their grief and sorrow. They have welcomed Him into their struggles and pain. And they’ve welcomed Him into their joyful celebrations. one thing I can tell ya, those who welcome Him are not disappointed. It’s why He came, you know. Remember, you’re always welcome at Pauly’s – where the coffees’ always hot and the smiles are always warm. Merry Christmas to you all.
(Black Out)
댓글