Money
Shawn, Katy, Cory, and Topanga are leaving the rehab center where Maya is in rehabilitation for alcohol addiction. It's been a week since they last saw her. She's doing well enough that she asked them not to come and see her every day. It's not because she didn't want to see them that often, it's that she knows that seeing her that often was upsetting their normal lives and she doesn't want that. She knows for a fact that her dad, Shawn, had turned down several out-of-town assignments that would have been good for his career because he wanted to see her every day. And she knew that her mom had been taking a lot of time off from working at Topanga's, where she is not only the full-time manager, but as of a year ago, was made a partner of the little coffee & pastry bistro by Topanga and Cory. Katy was thrilled with this opportunity and had worked hard to improve the cozy little shop, and Maya knew these visits had added stress on her mom. And of course, Cory and Topanga were always busy with their jobs, so Maya implored them all to cut back on the visits. She told them she was working hard on getting her life back and the best way they could help her was to get their lives back to as normal as they could. They all reluctantly agreed after Maya insisted. She asked Riley, Josh, and the rest of her friends to do the same.
As the four friends enter the lobby in the main building on their way out, Shawn turns to Cory and Topanga and says: "You guys go on. Katy and I need to talk to someone here about what this is costing. We haven't talked to anyone yet and they've been nice enough not to bring it up, so we need to look into it."
Cory and Topanga exchange knowing looks, then Cory says: "We want to help with the expense. Topanga and I have talked about this. We know it's going to be a lot and we'd like to help out."
Shawn and Katy are shocked at their offer. "We can't ask you to do that," Katy says. "It's really sweet, but this is our problem to solve."
"You didn't ask," Topanga begins; "we're offering." When Shawn and Katy don't say anything, Topanga continues. "Look you two, we helped you pick out this place. We said it was the best place for her to go and we all wanted the best for her. And even though you agreed with us, we feel some responsibility in putting this financial burden on you and don't want you to bear it alone. So, we're offering and we won't take no for an answer."
Shawn is about to say something when Cory says: "I know that look from her Shawnie. And YOU know that look as well, so I wouldn't go against her on this. She has her mind made up."
"But guys," Shawn finally says, "this is probably going to be expensive and Maya is our daughter and therefore the cost of her rehab is our responsibility. So in spite of Topanga's insistence, we can't let you do that."
Topanga takes one of Shawn and Katy's hands in hers, smiles at them, and says: "Shawn, Katy, you are Cory our closest friends. We love you both and we love Maya as well. Our daughters are the closest of friends so Maya is like a daughter to us, just as Riley is like a daughter to you, even though she calls you uncle Shawn and aunt Katy." This brings a smile to all their faces. "All through high school and college, Riley loved hanging out with your family: you two and Maya. Both girls have referred to our families as 'blended.' And we can't argue with them on this. So, I'm going to offer one more time, politely, let us help with this expense. And if you say no again, then I'll get mean." Topanga says this forcefully but with a smile on her face.
Shawn and Katy exchange looks. Finally, Katy smiles at Shawn as a silent agreement passes between them. "Alright guys, you've convinced us and we know Topanga won't give in. So thank you, it's more appreciated that you can imagine."
"Good," Topanga says softly with a bright smile.
Katy then surprises them both by suddenly hugging their necks tightly and saying: "We love you both so much. You are the best friends anyone could ever have. When she releases them, an awkward silence ensues, until Cory finally says: "ditto." This brings a round of laughter for them all.
With that, the four head to the front desk to ask to speak to someone about their expenses. "Hello," Shawn begins. "We are Shawn and Katy Hunter and our daughter is a patient here. We would like to speak with someone about the costs of her treatment."
"Of course Mr. Hunter," the receptionist says politely. "I'll get one of our finance officers to talk to you. If you could wait here for just a second, one will meet you here."
"Thank you," Shawn answers her.
As promised, in a short few moments a young woman comes out to meet them. "Hello," she begins with pleasant smile. "My name is Jane Cunningham and I'm a financial officer here at the center. I'm told you have a daughter who is a patient with us and you'd like to talk about the costs of her treatment."
"Yes, that's correct," Shawn says. "And this is my wife Katy and our friends Cory and Topanga Matthews." When Jane looks at them questioningly, Shawn realizes he needs to explain why Cory and Topanga are here. "Cory and Topanga are our closest and dearest friends and they have insisted on helping us with our expenses."
"Oh, I see," Jane says with a surprised look, but then she smiles and goes on. "Well, they are truly good friends. It's nice meeting you Mr. and Mrs. Matthews." Cory and Topanga nod politely at her, acknowledging her complement. "If you all with follow me to my office, I'll be glad to answer any questions you may have. Shawn responds with a "thank you" as the four of them follow her down a hallway to her office.
Once in her office, Jane places four chairs in front of her desk and sits down in her chair behind it. After they all get settled Shawn says: "We four all live comfortably, but we're not rich by any means, so I guess I'm a little worried how we might pay for her treatment."
Jane gives them a soothing smile. "I understand your concerns Mr. Hunter. But let me assure you, we're not going to help your daughter get well and then bankrupt her parents. That would help no one. We have several payment plans that you can choose from and I'm sure we can find one that will fit your budget." Shawn and Katy both let out a sigh of relief and relax a little. "Okay," Jane begins, "let's look up your daughter's file to see what fees have been charged to it and then we'll have a starting point. What is your daughter's full name?" She asks.
"Maya Penelope Hunter," Katy answers.
Jane begins to type on her computer in what the four anxious adults believe is her looking for Maya's file. "Here it is," Jane says, "Maya Penelope Hunter. My, she's certainly a beautiful young woman." When the four look at her with bewilderment on their faces, Jane explains: "We have two pictures of Maya; one we took of her when she arrived here, and one from before she started drinking excessively. We sometimes use the older picture to compare to how she is now as a reference. It says here that a Riley Matthews supplied the picture. I'm assuming she's some relation to you Mr. and Mrs. Matthews."
"She is," Topanga says, "our daughter and Maya's best friend. The two grew up together."
"I see," Jane says, "I bet I've seen her; tall brunet with a big smile and bubbly personality."
"That's our daughter," Cory replies. Jane notices the smile that brings to all four of her visitor's faces.
"Okay," Jane says, "let's see what we can find out." She types on her keyboard and then clicks her mouse a few times. "Hmmm," she says, "that's odd."
"What do you mean 'odd' Ms. Cunningham?" Topanga asks.
"Her file is showing a balance of zero," Jane answers her.
"That can't be right," Shawn says, "she's been here almost a month. There has to be some cost for that."
"I agree Mr. Hunter," Jane reply's, "it's probably a clerical error where someone just forgot to update Maya's file. Someone is going to be in trouble for this insight. Her file should be kept up-to-date for occasions just like this when we need all the information." The four sitting across from her can see she's annoyed with this. "Let me check somewhere else," Jane says and she types and clicks some more. When she stops, she says: "Oh, well this is unexpected. There wasn't an error. Your fees and expenses have been paid in full and Maya's account has been linked to an outside bank account with instructions that any further expenses come from this account and paid in full."
"What! That can't be right," Shawn says. There must be some kind of mistake. They've gotten our account mixed up with someone else's."
As Jane continues to search for more information, she suddenly stops and her eyes grow large in surprise. "No, it's no mistake," she says. "Maya is actually referenced in the transfer instructions."
"Who is it?" They all four ask in unison.
"Your expenses have been taken care of by one of our biggest benefactors: Stuart Minkus, CEO of Minkus International and head of the Minkus Family Foundation."
The four friends are stunned by this news. "Minkus," Shawn says is mock disgust.
"Farkle must have told him," Cory surmises.
"I know he's Farkle's father," Katy begins, "but did you three know him before you had kids."
"We did," Shawn tells her. "We were classmates in middle school and high school. Stuart is a wonderful father and husband, and a good friend. But we can't let him do this. As wonderful a gesture as this is, we need to stop it and return the money to him. Maya is our responsibility."
"Well, that's going to be difficult," Jane says.
"Why do you say that?" Topanga asks.
"Because, according to this file, Mr. Minkus left specific instructions NOT to terminated this link for any reason. And he specifically says, and I quote: 'Mr. & Mrs. Hunter and probably Mr. and Mrs. Matthews will insist that the money be returned and they pay for the expenses. But under no circumstances is that to be done,' unquote. Now I've learned that it's not a good idea to go against Mr. Minkus' wishes, especially when it comes to philanthropy. So you'll have to take it up with him if you want this changed."
"Yeah, sounds like him," Topanga says as she rolls her eyes.
"I'll call him tomorrow and see when we can all pay him a visit," Shawn says. "He can be stubborn, but he'll also listen to reason." The other three agree to Shawn's idea.
Two days later, Shawn calls Stuart. "I know why you called Shawn," Stuart begins when he hears Shawn's voice, "and the answer is no; I will not close the account and I will not accept a penny for you or Cory. And any other expenses that are accrued on Maya's behalf will be paid through my account."
Shawn is exacerbated by Stuart's response. "It is a kind gesture Stuart; it really is," Shawn says, "but why are you being so stubborn about this?"
"I have my reasons," Stuart answers quickly. Shawn sighs deeply, frustrated that Stuart won't budge on this. Stuart can hear Shawn's frustration and smiles. And he wants to ease his friend's frustration. "Shawn," he begins, "I want to explain why I'm not budging on this, but not over the phone. Why don't you & Katy and Cory & Topanga come over for dinner one night and we can discuss this further. Besides, we haven't seen each other in a while, so we should get together."
After a few moments of thought, Shawn says: "Alright, that sounds good. And we should get together more often. I'll ask Topanga to coordinate with Jennifer; they're both better at that than us. But I can tell you right now, I can't think of any reason why we should let you do this for us; as kind a gesture as it is."
"We'll see," Stuart says with a smile. "And please invite Riley and Josh as well. And I'll ask Farkle and Isadora to join us also."
"Okay," Shawn answers, "It'll be good to see you and Jennifer again, even if you are being so stubborn."
Stuart couldn't help but laugh at Shawn's statement; then said: "We look forward to seeing you all too Shawn."
A few days later, after Jennifer and Topanga had coordinated everyone's schedules, the Hunters and Matthews find themselves on the private elevator to the penthouse of the Minkus International building in New York. When the doors of the elevator open, the little group is welcomed by Stuart, Jennifer, Farkle, and Isadora. "Welcome friends," Stuart says with a big smile, "It's good you all could come." After the two groups exchange greetings, Jennifer says: "Stuart, why don't you take everyone into the den where they'll be more comfortable, while I go check on dinner, and then I'll join you."
"Yes dear," Stuart says with a smile. He knows his beautiful wife is in her element when she's entertaining and she's been looking forward to this evening. Usually she's panning big galas and extravagant parties for her husband's business interests or to benefit the Minkus Family Foundation. And while she enjoys doing that for her husband, she enjoys hosting a small dinner gathering with close friends more. "If everyone will follow me," Stuart prompts as he leads the way to another part of his suite. As they walk through the apartment on their way to the den, the six visitors marvel at the opulence of it all. Everywhere you look there are beautiful paintings from well known artists, antique furniture, the collection of which is a passion shared by Stuart and Jennifer, and of course the latest is electronic wizardry. The isn't the first time the little group has been to the Minkus penthouse apartment, although it's been a while since they were all here, but the four older friends of Stuart and Jennifer still marvel at how Jennifer seems of perfectly blend the old and new together.
After Stuart makes sure everyone has some refreshments and comfortable places to sit, Shawn decides to speak up about why they are at the Minkus', but is cut off by Stuart. "Please Shawn," he begins, "I promise we will talk about what originally prompted your visit, but Jennifer has requested that we spend at least the first part of your visit enjoying the dinner she's prepared and to give us a chance to catch up on each other's lives. She has to deal with those in our sphere of influence all the time dealing with business and philanthropy, and does a wonderful job. But she misses talking to friends, both old and new," Stuart nods at Katy with his last words causing her to smile, "and wants to enjoy an evening with them. And I must say, I've looked forward to this evening as well." After knowing looks are exchanged between the two visiting families, Shawn acknowledges that they would enjoy that as well.
Jennifer joins the little group in the den a few moments later as they begin their evening together. The conversation between the old friends flows easily as they catch up on each other's lives. Katy is particularly impressed with the Minkuses. Even though they are obviously quite wealthy, Stuart and Jennifer seem to be genuinely interested in what the rest of them are doing now. Both Stuart and Jennifer asked her several questions about her running of Topanga's and were impressed at how well she does her job at the little café. They were also interested in Shawn's job and where it took him. They also revealed they enjoyed reading his articles and are interested in going to some of the places he's written about. They asked Cory and Riley about their teaching jobs and remind them about what a huge positive impact teachers can have on students' lives, like Mr. Feeny had on theirs. And they enjoy talking with Topanga about her work, especially about the pro bono work she does throughout the city. Josh is surprised at their interest in his work. He always felt like his accounting work was boring to everyone except him and other accountants. And he's very surprised when Stuart tells him he can always use a good accountant at Minkus International.
After checking on dinner one last time, Jennifer informs everyone that it's ready and leads everyone into the dining room. There, they sit down to a beautifully decorated and arranged dining table. They are served by a maid and butler who go out of their way to see to the guests needs. Because of the way they seem to enjoy their jobs, Riley is overcome with curiosity and discreetly asks them after dinner if they enjoy working for the Minkuses. They both give her broad smiles as they answer "yes, we do." They tell her how Stuart and Jennifer pay them well and treat them as part of their family. The butler tells her that his youngest daughter became very sick with meningitis and that Mr. Minkus saw to it she got the very best of care and paid all expenses and his daughter recovered completely. He went on to tell Riley that it goes without saying they are both devoted to Stuart and Jennifer. The maid then tells Riley that Mr. Minkus talked to them both specifically about this evening and how special the people were to him and Jennifer that they would be serving. Stuart told them that the Matthews and Hunters were much more important to him and his wife that even the most important businessmen they had served in the past which prompted her and the butler to be especially attentive to them, which they were happy to do.
When dinner was finished, the little group of friends returned to the den for after-dinner coffee and more conversation. "Alright Shawn," Stuart began, "I know what you're anxious to talk about. So let's get into it."
Shawn gives Stuart a smile, then exchanges looks with Katy before returning to Stuart. "First of all," Shawn begins, "thank you for that wonderful meal. We all enjoyed it very much. Jennifer, you are a wonderful cook and host." Everyone nodded in agreement with Shawn as he told them this. "But most of all, we all enjoyed our conversations with you."
"You were right Stuart," Topanga says, "we all should have gotten together sooner. We've let our busy lives interfere with our friendship and this was way overdue." Then Topanga laughed slightly and said: "Our children get together more often than we do and that should never happen."
They all shared a laugh then and Stuart and Jennifer agreed. After that, Shawn felt it was time to get serious and discuss what they'd originally come for: Stuart paying for Maya's stay at the rehab center. "Look Stuart, Jennifer," he begins, "it was an incredible kind and generous offer to pay Maya's expenses, but this is not your burden; it's mine and Katy's. Maya's our daughter and while paying for her rehab will be a financial hardship for us, we can manage it, and it'll be totally worth it to get her back safe and healthy. So I must insist...again…that you take back the money you've spent and let us take over the expense."
"You're planning on letting Cory and Topanga help out, aren't you?" Stuart quickly responds, "Why not us?"
"Because you're not family Stuart," Shawn responds to him. "You and Jennifer are wonderful and kind friends and we all cherish your friendship. But this is a family matter and shouldn't be your burden. So please, take back your kind offer and let us handle this. Now I know what you're about to say Stuart: 'Cory and Topanga aren't family either.' But your wrong, at least in my line of thinking. You see, Cory, Topanga, and I have known each other since we were five years old. Alan and Amy Matthews practically raised me because my real parents were rarely there for me. And I'm a better man for it."
"And Cory and Topanga helped raise Maya," Katy adds. "When I was a single mom, I struggled to keep my act together. I knew how wonderfully lucky Maya was to have Riley and her family in her life. And Riley and Maya's bond is stronger that any sibling bond could ever be. And also because of that strong bond, I met Shawn, who became my husband and Maya's father, her real father. And together we built a life together, the three of us, and later of course more that the three of us." Shawn and Katy smile at one another as they think about Maya and her siblings that came along later.
Stuart and Jennifer exchange smiles, then Stuart replies to Shawn: "We understand your concerns regarding this Shawn, we really do. So let me make a deal with you. Let us explain the reasons we want to do this, and after we do, if you still want us to withdraw our help, then we will."
Shawn contemplates Stuart's offer for a few seconds, then responds: "Alright, we'll go along with that if it'll get you to take your money back, but I have to warn you, I can't imagine anything you could tell us that would change our minds."
Jennifer and Stuart exchange smiles and Stuart begins: "We actually have two reasons. First of all," Stuart began by addressing Katy, "as you know, Katy...Shawn, Topanga, Cory, and I have known each other since middle school. What you may not know is, I was that kid who was always running around with his nose in a book. The word 'nerd' was used a lot. As a result, I was picked on by a lot of the kids I went to school with. We'd call in 'bullying' now. But Shawn, Cory, and Topanga never did that to me. Oh, Shawn tried to prank me a few times, but I always seemed figure it out before it happened and turned the tables on him." This caused Shawn to snort-laugh. "Cory, I don't think, ever understood me back then, but that didn't matter to him. I always got the feeling he believed all people had the right to be who they wanted to be and no one had a right to interfere with that. He got that from his parents and Mr. Feeny I believe." This invoked a smile from Cory. "And Topanga and I were rivals academically, but friendly rivals, although some might not have believed that. I used to tell everyone that we were destined to be together one day, but actually, I knew where her heart was, and I was happy for her; and still am. But then I got involved with Jennifer and she told me to marry her, which I did, and it was the best thing anyone ever did for me." This got smiles from everyone in the room, especially Jennifer. "But the point I'm trying to make here, is that these three wonderful friends helped me make it all the way through high school and made me a better person. If a nerd like me could be friends with two of the coolest kids in school, Shawn and Topanga, then all things were possible I believed."
"Hey, what about me Stuart," Cory piped in, "I was cool to."
"No you weren't," Shawn and Topanga chimed in. Which made Cory frown and all the others laugh.
"But to get Topanga Lawrence to fall in love with you," began Jennifer, "and then marry you, well you had to become at least a little cool at some point." This brought laughter from the group again, this time including Cory.
"Stuart," Shawn said, "that's all nice of you to say, but that still…."
"I'm not finished Shawn," Stuart interrupted. "There's a second reason Jennifer and I want to do this. And it's by far the most important reason." Shawn and the rest settled down to hear what else Stuart had to say. "It concerns Farkle." Stuart says. "Ever since grammar school, Maya and Riley have been Farkle's closest friends, and still are, even today. And Farkle told us about them quite often. It was obvious to Jennifer and I that those two had a profound positive effect on him. Farkle has the same since of empowerment, if you will, that I had when the coolest kind in grammar, middle, and high schools, Maya, was his best friend. She and Riley stood beside him and defended him no matter what. When someone was bullying him in middle school, it was Maya and Riley along with Lucas Friar, who came to his aid. When it was thought he might have Asperger's Syndrome, they told him time and time again that it doesn't matter to them. They will love him no matter what. And they showed that same love and commitment to Isadora, who we've grown to love as one of our own. And finally, Farkle told us how Maya was always the first one to come to his aid when anyone tried to do him harm in any way. One of the most amazing and funny stories he told us was when they were sophomores in high school and Maya cornered a senior football player in the hall who had been making fun of Farkle and in front of the entire school threatened and scared the guy so much that he, and I quote: 'almost peed his pants.'"
This brought laughter from the group. "I remember that," Riley says, "that guy never came near Farkle again.
"I remember it too," Cory says. "I had to publicly talk to Maya about not doing that again to keep the principle happy, but while I was doing so, I had to turn my back to the rest of the students so they wouldn't see the huge grin on my face. I was very proud of her."
"So, getting back to our original problem Shawn," Stuart says, emphasizing that word, "the kindness that Maya has always shown our son; loving him as a friend no matter what, being there for him no matter the obstacle, helping to make him into the wonderful young man he is today; you see Shawn, these things can never be repaid adequately. What Jennifer and I want to do for you and Maya, is just a small thank you for what's she's done for our son for the past twenty something years."
For the next several minutes, Shawn and Katy think about what Stuart and Jennifer have just told them. And as they do, they both come to the same conclusion: that while they were initially uncomfortable with the idea of Stuart and Jennifer covering Maya's expenses while in rehab, and still are somewhat, to refuse their offer of generosity would insult their friends who are only trying to repay a debt they fell can never be adequately repaid. Shawn and Katy look at each other and smile. Then Katy slightly nods her head at Shawn, silently telling him he should do what they're both thinking. Shawn says to Stuart and Jennifer: "Alright you two, I didn't think it possible, but you have convinced us to let you cover the expenses Maya's rehabilitation will accrue. And please know, we are humbled and overwhelmed with this kindness you've shown us."
"Good, that's settled then," Stuart says with a broad smile. "And thank you for allowing us to partly repay Maya who we've come to love as our very own." There's a lot of watery eyes in the room including Riley and Josh's. Jennifer produces a tissue box for them all to use. After all regain their composure, they return to the conversations they were having before for the rest of the evening. Stuart is particularly interested in the activities Topanga is perusing such as saving decades old businesses and charitable endeavors such as orphanages. He tells her he would like to provide some funding for her through the Minkus Family Foundation. He's also interested in the areas Shawn has visited and written about in upstate New York. He tells Shawn that the area looks beautiful to him and Jennifer and they might be interested in purchasing a vacation home in the area. Of course, Shawn tells him he'll help as much as he can.
Too soon, they all conclude, it's time to for their evening to come to an end. They all have work the next day. Many warm hugs are exchanged before the guests leave and promises are made to do this more often. As the Hunters and Matthews are about to step into the private elevator that will take them to the ground floor, Riley throws her arms around Stuart and Jennifer's necks and hugs them tight. She suddenly realizes that in her excitement, she may have violated some protocol in dealing with the upper-class couple. But she hadn't. "I'm sorry Mr. and Mrs. Minkus. I guess I got a little carried away, but I just wanted to tell you how appreciative I am for what you're doing for Maya and her family. And I can tell you for sure, that when Maya gets out of rehab, she'll want to thank you personally."
Stuart and Jennifer give Riley warm smiles. "Nothing to apologize for Maya. Your affinity for affection when you're excited is well documented with us." When Riley's eyes begin to widen with embarrassment, Stuart smiles at her and says: "It's okay Riley, your affection is always welcomed in our home." When Riley breathes a sigh of relief, Stuart continues: "Let's do this, when Maya gets out of rehab, we'll have a big 'Welcome Back Maya' party right here. We'll invite all of you of course and all of Maya's close friends. We'll make it a big celebration."
"Oh Mr. Minkus," Riley gushes, "that would be wonderful and it will make Maya so happy; thank you!"
"Happy to do that Riley," Stuart says. "We'll make sure Maya knows how happy we all are to have her back." With that and another round of goodbyes and well wishes, the evening finally comes to an end.
Art
Riley and Josh exit Josh's car and head for the entrance way of the Zachariah Rehabilitation and Recovery Center. They're on their way to visit Maya during her evening free time. As they enter the reception area of the main building, they're once again reminded of the grandeur of the rehab center they put Maya in. Everything about the building projects positivity and a hope for a bright future. As they head to the reception desk to check in as visitors, they are met by Dr. Beverly Anderson, head of the center. "Good evening Riley; good evening Josh," she greets them with a warm smile.
"Good evening Dr. Anderson," Riley and Josh reply, "It's good to see you."
"And you as well," she returns. "Could you come to my office for a few minutes after you've checked in? I want to talk to you about Maya."
"Is there something wrong Dr. Anderson?" Riley asks with unease. "Is Maya okay?"
"Yes, she's fine Riley," Dr. Anderson answers her, "she's had some setbacks as you know. Alcohol addiction can hit one hard sometimes even after the patient seems, at first, to have beaten the addiction. But she's fighting back and doing much better, but she still has a way to go. I'd like to talk with you about something else concerning her for a few minutes if you don't mind."
"Of course, Dr. Anderson," Josh replies, "We'll be in to see you as soon as we check in."
A few minutes later, Riley and Josh enter Dr. Anderson's office. "Please shut the door and have a seat," she says to them. After they're seated, Dr. Anderson just looks at them intently, not sure where to begin.
Finally, Riley asks: "Are you sure there's nothing wrong with Maya, Dr. Anderson." Her momentary silence has caused Riley to be a little worried. It was obvious to her that Dr. Anderson had something she felt was important to tell them about Maya and was trying to find a way to say it.
She smiles at the pair sitting across from her. "Maya's doing fine Riley. I can assure you. In fact, what has happened to her or what we've discovered about her is quite remarkable we think." The two younger adults look at each other as if to ask: "Do you know what she means?" After giving the them a little time to take in what they've just been told, she asks: "Did either of you know that Maya can paint? And I don't mean a tradesman job like painting walls, but beautiful paintings of landscapes, portraits, and scenes of ever day life." Riley and Josh exchange knowing looks and smiles before turning back to the head of the rehab center. "Well, apparently you do," she states with a smile.
"Painting, drawing,…..art is who Maya is," Josh says seriously.
"Maya found out she could draw when she was thirteen," Riley continued. "After that she took art in middle and high schools; then studied art at NYU where she graduated near the top of her class with a degree in art. Because she had done so well in art school, she was noticed by local artists and studios in New York and they began showing her work. From there she was offered a job in an art gallery near SoHo. She loved that job. She told me several times that it was her dream Job. I've never seen her so happy and content. He room, in the apartment we shared, was stuffed full of paintings, drawings, and sketches she was either working on or had completed. And that's not to mention all the blank canvases she had, waiting to be used, as well as sketch pads, inks, paint brushes, and whatever else she needed to draw and paint. Her room was always in shambles, which normally I couldn't stand, but with her, I said it was a 'beautiful mess.' However, I would make her carry the dirty plates and glasses that would accumulate in her room and put them in the dish washer. I have my limits." Dr. Anderson and Josh smiled at that. "Then, she started drinking more and more. I was shocked but thought she was going through a stage or something and would get over it. Then she quit her job at the studio. I believe she was about to be fired anyway. And finally, she sold all of her art supplies that were in her room, including her finished paintings and drawings, canvases, paint brushes, everything. Then, I knew something was bad wrong with her. But it was too late. When I tried to talk with her about it, she just stormed out of the apartment and told me she never wanted to see me again. It was awful. I had lost her." Riley bows her head slights as she remembers those events and it saddens her.
Riley's eyes filled up with tears as she told her story, then her voice broke slightly as she finished. Josh put an arm around his niece to comfort her and says: "Riley, you know what the good people here told us about this. We can't blame ourselves for what happened to Maya. She's even told us several times herself that it was all on her and we weren't to blame in any way."
"I know," Riley says; finally smiling slightly. "It just hurts remembering what happened."
"I know," Josh answers. "It was painful for all of us. But she's getting better now. So let's keep being positive." Riley nods her head, hugs her favorite uncle back, then they both look at Dr. Anderson. "How did you find out she could paint?" Josh asks Dr. Anderson.
"We have a rec room for our patients use in any spare time they have," Dr. Anderson begins. There's a TV for them to watch, video games to play, board games, cards, and books and magazines to read. In one corner of the room, we have set up what we call our crafts corner. We encourage our patients to get creative if they want to. We have needlework, macramé, scrapbooking, clay modeling, and even Legos blocks. We also have painting supplies: easel, canvases, paints, brushes, and so forth. All of this in inexpensive, like what you might buy for a child, because we don't expect to have any real artists with us. When the painting supplies are used by our patients, it's little more than finger painting. But that's okay, it's what they want to do. Well, one day we noticed Maya painting on a canvas. At first we didn't think anything about it, but Chrissy noticed that Maya would paint ever chance she had. And she would throw herself into it with total concentration. A lot of times, recovering addicts have trouble concentrating, but when Maya was painting, she was totally absorbed in it. She had been painting with the back of the canvas facing us, so we didn't see what she was painting at first. We usually leave the patients alone in the rec room and let them entertain themselves as they wish. But after a couple of days, it was obvious to us that this was more than recreation to Maya. We saw passion in her eyes as she painted. So one day Chrissy walked over to Maya while she was painting to see what she had done. She immediately called me over to her when she saw Maya's painting, and we were both stunned by what we saw. She had taken simple, cheap, water colors and brushes and created something incredibly beautiful. Here, I'll show you the picture I took of it with my phone."
Dr. Anderson pulled out her phone, found the picture she wanted them to see, and handed her phone to them. There on that simple paper canvas was an interpretive painting. It showed what was obliviously the main greenway park of the rehab campus. There was a large, bright sun in the back ground, depicting a sunrise. To one side, several people were walking toward the sunrise. And even though the figures were in silhouette, one was clearly Maya. Others seem to be patients from the rehab center. And if you looked closely, superimposed in the sun, was the word "Hope."
"Hope," Riley said, clearly moved by the painting. "Maya has hope again."
"Yes, she does Riley," Dr. Anderson says. "She titled the painting 'Hope.'
"Maya used to say 'hope was for suckers' before her dad, Shawn, came into her life," Riley says. "Then she realized: 'Hope isn't for suckers after all. With hope you can do anything.' Her drinking destroyed her hope I think, and she was lost. But now she seems to have it back."
"She does Riley," Dr. Anderson tells them. "She's also told me that with hope, all things are possible. So many addicts never understand that. But Maya does. And she's expressed that in this painting and others. And she's helping her follow patients to understand that. Other patients were amazed at Maya's paintings. It uplifted their spirits. Maya saw an opportunity to help and asked if she could start an art class for the other patients. She's helped others before, even when she was detoxing and hurting so much herself, she still wanted to help others. That just reinforced our efforts to help her get well. She's such a good person, but we had to remind her that it's her health she should put first and not others. She told us she realized that, but now that she was getting herself back, she couldn't help it, 'Dorothy makes her.'" Riley and Josh smile. They know what Maya meant. "She told me who Dorothy was," Dr. Anderson said with a smile. You've had a powerful influence on her Riley; a positive influence. I hope you realize that."
"I do," Riley answers. "She's had a positive influence on me as well." Dr. Anderson smiles, realizing how the two close friends have influenced each other is a positive way.
"We wanted to do this art class as well, but we needed supplies. When Maya gave us a list of things she needed for the class, we had to hesitate after seeing how much this was going to cost. Even though she gave us a list of only moderately priced but good quality items, it was still more than we could spend, given the budget we had for rec room supplies. Then Crissy suggested we call Mr. Minkus to see if he'd be willing to pay for the supplies through the account he set up for Maya's treatment. I had my doubts because that account is for Maya's recovery as you know, but I called anyway. I actually talked with his son, Farkle, who Mr. Minkus put in charge of managing Maya's account. I understand you know him Riley."
"Yes I do," Riley says with a smile. "He's one of Maya and mine's oldest and dearest friends."
"Well, as soon as I told him what I was proposing," Dr. Anderson said, "he immediately told me to buy whatever Maya said she needed. When I asked him if he was sure, that I didn't want to abuse this privilege that the Minkuses have given Maya, he assured me that it was fine. He told me the same thing you did Riley: that if Maya is painting again, then it's a sure sign she's healing and becoming herself again."
"That's remarkable," Josh says. "How long has this been going on? When did she start painting again?"
"About a week and a half ago," Dr. Answered answers. "She said she didn't want anyone from outside of the center to know while she was finding herself, at least for now. One of her classes is going on right now and since she knew you were coming this evening to visit her; she must be ready for you to know."
"Then what are we waiting for?" Riley asks excitedly. "Let's go see her!"
"Yeah, I can't wait to see her paint again," Josh says. With that, the three leave Dr. Anderson's office and heat to the rec room.
As they enter the rec room, the first thing they notice is Maya walking around to each of her students, offering encouraging words and helpful advice on techniques, colors, brush strokes, and anything she can think of to help each of them. Riley and Josh had never seen Maya teach before. In fact, Riley remembers Maya telling her that she wasn't interested in teaching, even though she loved all the art teachers she's had, but she just wanted to paint. But as Riley watches Maya she thinks: "She really seems to be enjoying teaching." As they continue to look around, Josh and Riley notice that not all of the fifteen or so of Maya's students are fellow patients. Josh recognizes two or three of them to be staff members. He and Riley also notice three children in the class as well. Josh asks Dr. Anderson about them.
"Oh, they're children of two of our staff members," Dr, Anderson explains. "At first, the class was just for patients, then one of our staff members asked Maya if she would give him and his daughter private lessons if something could be worked out. Maya suggested he and his daughter join the class. After some discussion with our staff psychologists, I decided to okay her idea. She was delighted. She said she wanted it to be a family affair because she considered everyone here, both staff and fellow patients, to be part of her recovery family." Dr. Anderson gets Riley's attention now, "I think that's because of what you've meant to her Riley. She believes that family isn't always just blood relatives. And we think that's a good thing." Riley smiles from hearing what Dr. Anderson told her and even turns a little red from slight embarrassment at her comments. Josh just smiles at his niece and nudges her with his elbow, both teasing her and letting her know how proud he is of her.
As the three continue talking amongst themselves, Maya notices them. And after checking on all her students one more time, she walks over to them. "Riles, Josh," she begins, "I'm glad you both came. What do you think?" She asks, indicating her art class.
"I think it's wonderful," Josh says.
"Maya, you've started painting again," Riley states flatly with a big smile.
"I have," Maya says back simply, with a look of relief and pride on her face. "And it feels really good, like having an old friend back." The two lifelong friends share knowing looks at each other. Josh understands her meaning too and adds a smile of his own.
"Oh Maya, I'm so happy for you!" Riley says excitedly as she throws her arms around her old friend's neck and hugs her tight. "The Maya I know and love is a painter and an artist. It was like a part of you was missing and now you're whole again."
"I know Riles," Maya tells her. "It doesn't mean I'm completely well yet, but I think it does mean that I'm getting there. Right Dr. Anderson?"
"That's what I think too, Maya," Dr. Anderson answers.
Maya turns to Josh now and asks: "What do you think Josh?" She's anxious to know what the other person in the room who means so much to her thinks.
Josh smiles and tells her exactly what he told Dr. Anderson earlier: "Painting, drawing,…..art is who you are Maya. When you stopped painting, Riley told me she was afraid that we'd lost you. I agreed, but we all wanted to hope, hope you'd come back to us. And this is proof you have. Welcome back Maya."
Maya is overcome with emotion at Josh's words. She puts her arms around him and pulls herself to his chest. And with her face pressed against his chest, she whimpers slightly and says: "Thank you Josh," she says as her voice cracks a little. "Thank you for rescuing me. Thank you for being my guardian angel. Thank you for being my friend."
Josh is touched by her words. "You're welcome Maya," he begins, "but as Riley always says" 'it's easy being your friend, because you're great."
"Thank you," Maya says so softly that only he and Riley could hear her as her face was still buried in Josh's chest.
The three give Maya a few moments to compose herself. After she does, she wipes her moist eyes with a tissue which Riley has somehow produced, and releases Josh. Back to herself again, Maya smiles at them broadly. She thinks to herself that this is the best she's felt in over a year, and that makes her smile broaden more.
"Maya, your art class," Riley begins, "you've always said you weren't interested in teaching." Riley phrases this in the form of a question.
"I know, but this just seemed like the right thing to do," Maya says, "and I've enjoyed it more than I thought I would."
"How much painting have you done since you started back?" Josh asked.
Maya smiles at his question and says: "My class is almost over, if you'll give me a few minutes to close things up, I'll show you." Maya heads back to her students for a few final bits of encouragement, then ends the class. After everything has been put away, she asks Riley and Josh to come with her. Dr. Anderson and now Chrissy follow them. Maya walks over to a door in the rec room and opens it. "This is a storage area for the rec room," she tells them. "I have most of my new paintings in here and a few in my room."
Riley and Josh's jaws drop. In the room they see several paintings. Josh does a quick count and comes up with eleven in all. The paintings vary in subject. Some are simple landscapes and still-lifes. Some are portraits. And some are abstracts. But all seem to be similar in one way; they all have bright colors which seems to indicate Maya is happy with her life right now and is hopeful for a happy future. "This is incredible Maya!" Riley exclaims. "You've done all this in the past two weeks?!"
"Yeah," Maya begins, "I guess I had all this pent-up creativity in me that I'd suppressed because of my drinking, and it just had to come out."
"I'll say," Chrissy says. "We caught her several times painting late at night either in here or her room and had to make her go to bed and get some sleep. She needs to maintain her health and a good night's sleep in an important part of that. But at least we knew she was doing something she loved. And that was a good thing." Chrissy said with a laugh: "We still have to keep an eye on her though."
"Maya can be stubborn sometimes," Riley says as both her and Josh laugh. Then she added: "But that's a sign she's becoming herself again."
"We agree," Dr. Anderson says. "And speaking of sleep, I hate to run you two off, but Maya's bedtime is approaching and she has some more chores to do."
"Oh mommy, can't I stay up and play with my friends a little longer?" Maya asks Dr. Anderson in a little girl's voice; clearly joking with the center's head.
"No you may not young lady," Dr. Anderson answers, going along with Maya's joke. "Now tell your friends goodnight and off to bed with you." Maya pooches out her lower lip in mock disappointment; then they all share a laugh at their joke with one another.
Maya hugs Riley and Josh; thanks them for coming to see her; wishes them a goodnight; and tells them both she loves them. "Chrissy," Dr. Anderson begins, "make sure Mays gets to bed and I'll see these two out."
"Yes ma'am," Chrissy says. Then turns Maya toward her dormitory and says: "Get moving young lady," as the two head out the door while laughing.
In the lobby of the main building, Dr. Anderson pauses to tell Riley and Josh goodnight. But before she does, she tells them something. "We try not to get involved emotionally with our patients. We practice compassion and kindness toward all of them, but try to maintain an aura of professionalism. But occasionally we get someone in here who's so special, that we can't help but get involved with them a little more deeply. Maya is one of those. It's easy to see why she has parents and friends who love her so much. We do our work because we want to see people get well and get their lives back. But in some cases, like Maya's, we also want to see them get better for ourselves as well. I'm sure you two can understand that."
"We do," Josh says. "I think most of us, including me, didn't realize how much Maya meant to us until we almost lost her. I don't think she's ever realized what an effect she has on those who know her."
"I agree with Uncle Josh," Riley adds. "And we need to make sure she knows that when we get her back." The other two agree with what Riley said and vow to make sure that never happens again. The three exchange goodnights, and Riley and Josh leave.