The Blind Beggar: Part XVI

The next day at work, Boulos learned more about using the iPad from the Muslim businessman’s son, Khalid.  Boulos believed it could add a new dimension to life but, due to its limitations, he decided not to use it unless he needed to contact Daiwik.  What he wanted was the ability to communicate with Amal.  Boulos asked, “The iPad knows who Mr. Daiwik is but doesn’t know my family members.”

“You want to contact your family.”

“Why not?  Say I wish to contact my mother, Amal.  How would I do that?”

“Your mother is still alive.”

“No, she died when I was young, but my point is, why doesn’t the iPad recognize people I wish to contact.”

“Oh, once you add the contact information for anyone, the iPad can help you contact them.  This iPad only uses wifi so there are some limits but you can send texts or emails to people in your contacts when you have their email or phone numbers.  There are other apps that would allow you to make phone calls too.”

“How do I get this information?”

“You mean contact information?”

“Yes.”

“Just ask for it.  I can help you add people once you get their information.”

“Thank you.  It is that simple?”

“Yes, it is pretty easy.”

While it was nice to know communicating with Amal was still possible, how could he get this information?

Amal and Madhura sat talking and sipping coffee.  As usual, they discussed their herb gardens.  Then the conversation turned to weather.  A cold front had moved into the area.  Madhura was certain Amal would want news of Boulos.  She began, “You know, Boulos has moved into an apartment that is part of the Christian group downtown.  That must make you happy since the weather has been cold.”

Since seeing Ali and actually speaking with him, Amal’s mind was consumed by the thought of being with him again.  She couldn’t betray her feelings.  She simply said, “Yes, it is good he has permanent shelter.  I am very happy for him.” 

Madhura smiled and added, “Daiwik gave him an iPad to contact him if he needs something.” 

Amal reacted to this information.  “Really, can he use it?  How does a blind man feel the smooth screen and use it.”

“Daiwik, showed him how to use the iPad’s assistant so they can send messages.  Boulos can dictate messages and the assistant will read messages.”

“That was very nice of your husband to give the iPad.”

“It was my daughter’s but she doesn’t use it.  At least someone can make use of it.”

Amal pondered the possibilities of communicating with Ali via the iPad.  To be able to talk with him as they did when they were children thrilled her.  She thought to herself how sweet it would be to know his thoughts and share hers. 

Amal’s husband sat at his desk at work thinking about recent events.  He noticed his wife’s unusual behavior.  At first, he only noted she was more quiet than normal.  She was also moody.  It wasn’t until he suggested she take the children to meet the blind man at the maintenance man’s apartment he began to suspect something.  It was then he remembered the approximate start of her odd behavior.  It began when the blind man appeared.  Blind beggars aren’t a normal sight.  Therefore, the timeframe stood out to him.  Still, he couldn’t imagine how the blind man could have caused such problems.  He felt the need to watch his wife closely.