Hi LaDonna: Okay ... here's my Breifcase Story.
When I first became a JW, I noticed that the Congregation Servant [PO] had a Big Briefcase with nice piano hinges. It was about 18" high, 12" wide, and 24" long. When he opened it, he had a virtual Library in it. Then in time, I noticed that the Asst. Congregation Servant, Bible Study Servant and the TM School Servant all had these same Big Briefcases. I was afraid to ask where they got it, so I continued to use a standard business breifcase.
Then about three years later when the Elder arrangement started, I noticed that several of the prospective new Elders started carrying the Big Briefcases like the old Congregation Servant had. And sure enough, they were appointed as Elders.
Sooooo ... I was "reaching out' like all the rest. And thought that maybe I might get a bigger breifcase. I worked in San Francisco and found a store called Harband's that sold the exact model that the Elders carried. It was waterproof, sturdy, the same nice piano hinges, and double flap. Had a bunch of cool compartments too. So, I said to myself that this was a good thing ... I will look like Elder material. I got a really good deal on it too. And all my stuff fit with room to spare for my future Elder's manual, etc.
I immediately started using the Big Briefcase. I did not say anything to anyone, because I figured that way I would fit in gradually. Then, about two months later we had our Circuit Assembly. Lo and behold ... one of the parts on the program was about younger Ministerial Servants reaching out to be Elders. The Society was trying to show how "Immature" MS might try to become Elders, but not have a good grasp of spiritual maturity. One of the comments made from the JW playing the MS role in the drama was that he even bought a "Big Briefcase" to look like an Elder.
I was so damned embarassed I could have vomited. I wondered if the Society spotted me coming and designed a part in the program specifically for me. So, during break, I took my nice Big Breifcase out to my car, and pulled out just a few things I really needed. I found a small carrying case I kept with extra things, and placed a few things in it. I didn't even tell my wife because I was so ashamed.
After the Assembly, I unpacked the Big new Breifcase, and tucked it away in the shed for a long time. I didn't use it again until I was actually appointed an Elder. Then, I enjoyed it for a number of years, Flock Book, Judicial Notes, all tucked away with the other Elder junk.
When I left the religion in May 1992, I retired the Briefcase. I tried a few times to use it in business, but somehow, everytime I looked at the Big old Briefcase it reminded me of Elder days ... and I just put it back in storage where it is to this day.
