The Bully

At the time, we didn't know he was a replacement. Not that it mattered much on the front end ~ we were too busy trying to find the nonexistent building that was clearly marked as the address on the audition sheet. Thankfully, I had built in a time cushion that served us well.

The building loomed tall on the hustling street. Sunglasses, skirts, tiny dogs on leashes; a business suit or two, and a cigarette out on the veranda were our visual markers of destination.

Entering the building, and taking our seats, Keller suddenly became quite a handful. Very unusual for this young lad, who loves to take in his surroundings in quiet fashion. I utilized every momma trick in the book to keep him content.

The hallway was a busy one. Boys, moms, even a grandma; students and a docent. Offices with tall skinny windows gave evidence of life on the other side of each wall.

One by one, the boys were called into the room. One by one each boy exited the room, gathered his parent, and walked toward the elevator. Finally, Israel's turn.


He had been quietly intent on the script before him, studious, and prepared. I whisked Keller away, on yet another attempt to keep him satisfied for just a few more minutes.

Around the corner, Israel came. I locked eyes with him, surprised. He knew the question without me verbally recounting it.

"They gave me the wrong script."

My face flushed white, and my eyes widened. This was a first.

The actor was lost in readjustment.

*********

The casting director reread her list, detailing those who were to be in attendance. The young man before her had no place among the names. She made a decision to keep her mouth shut, and see what he could do.

***********
The freeway was bumper to bumper, but moving. Finding a steady position, I dialed Israel's manager. An incorrect address was one thing. But two incorrect pieces of information in one communication? At the very least, the company needed to know. Detailing our difficulty, our conversation was cut off.

"There is a call coming in. I've got to take it. I'll call you back." she said.

**********
The phone rang. "Angi, that was casting. If you only knew what a miracle this whole audition has been. On your side, the wrong address, the wrong script; on my side - I had sent Israel in as a replacement, and was only able to leave a voicemail. The casting director took him in as a wild card ~ all of that . . .and Israel has BOOKED IT!"

*******
Just a day ago, a major television project had slipped through Israel's fingers, all while receiving glowing reviews. As disappointing as it had been, he gave God the glory, win or lose.

The Lord saw fit to honor his upright heart attitude, and grant my son, the actor, placement in a short film.

His role? A lead part: The Bully.

Next weekend? On location.

Celebrate with us!

John answered and said, A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven. John 3:27