So the wife and I have decided to take a short vacation. It will be during the Memorial.
I know that the wife HAS to attend that, of course.
SO, I call around and get the phone number for the city overseer for the city we plan to
go to. I ask about the language group- he gives me a phone number for the PO of the group.
I leave a message "We will be visiting [your city] during that week and we need the time and
location of your meetings- especially the time and location of the Memorial." Never hear from
him, doesn't return the call after 3 attempts.
Next, my local cong. secretary says "Here's a text number for a sister in the group."
I send her the complete text message, clearly asking for just the time and location of those
meetings. A day passes by and she texts back, "Memorial is on April 2nd."
I type back, "Yes, what specific time and specific address?"
"I'll get back with you."
4 days go by. I send another message. She types back "I will have someone contact you."
Another 3 to 4 days (Good thing I started early) and the phone rings.
"This is Sister XXX from the [foreign lang. group]. You were going to visit us. Can you tell me
your address in Chicago?" (I give it to her.) "When are you visiting?" (I tell her.)
"Are you an elder?" (I pause slightly, but say the single word NO.)
LONG PAUSE, I am about ready to break the silence when she speaks "Well, maybe we can
help you, anyway."
"Why, what's the difference?"
"Give me your PO's phone number, I will pass it on to my PO."
"I am sorry, what's that about?"
"We just have to be careful."
"What is it you are afraid of- if you don't mind me asking? All I want is the time and location
of the Memorial and other meetings during that same week."
"OH, okay, I will mail it to you, then."
"But what was that other stuff about?"
"I thought you were asking for a place to stay. Most elders do."
"You mean the ones who come to give the public talk?"
"Yes, but others too."
Was that just so bizarre? Had to type it out.