If the passage had been told from the point of view of one of Mr. Romano’s friends from the hospital, it would most likely have emphasized Mr. Romano’s influence upon the friend in a personal way. This perspective would likely highlight how Mr. Romano’s optimism and dedication to volunteering have positively impacted the lives of those around him, fostering feelings of admiration and appreciation among his friends. The emphasis would be on the personal anecdotes and experiences that illustrate Mr. Romano’s character and the inspiration he provides, contrasting with Jonathan’s more distant admiration and giving depth to Mr. Romano's relationships with those he cares for.
1 A pair of binoculars hung from the back door hook, yet another reminder of Grandpa. Jonathan remembered how special the binoculars had been to his grandpa; they had been a gift in recognition for his designation as Community Citizen of the Year. Inscribed inside the case were the words, “Because of your generosity and wisdom, we see more clearly; your charitable efforts toward our community will never be forgotten.” On his way out the back door, Jonathan touched the binoculars, as if touching them could somehow draw Grandpa closer. Headed to soccer practice, he walked through the city park, now vibrant with the richness of fall’s colors. As he walked, he remembered sadly that fall had been Grandpa’s favorite season.
2 Jonathan and Grandpa had always shared a special affinity for each other, and Grandpa’s stories, always beginning with the words way back when, were an integral part of Jonathan’s childhood. Grandpa had an engaging way with words, and he lovingly insisted that his grandchildren develop the same inquisitive nature about life and learning that he possessed. “A grandkid of Thomas McKinion should never be content with learning just enough,” he would announce assertively. He would add, “We should never pass up the opportunity to teach and learn from each other.” With that comment, Jonathan would sit and listen to another of Grandpa’s lessons about life. “Your name and reputation cannot be taken from you,” he would say. “Take care of both of them, and never pass up the chance to show compassion for someone else.”
3 Those recollections seemed all too remote now, like fragments of a diminishing past. The last two years, Grandpa’s health had been in a gradual state of decline, and as Jonathan became a teenager, the two had grown farther apart. The once witty, energetic Grandpa, who had kept him in stitches with his imaginative stories, had gradually become a doddering and repetitive shell of what he once was. He had then fallen victim to a heart attack, and the grandpa who had taught him to fish and enjoy the outdoor life had barely ventured out of the haven that Jonathan’s house had become. Finally, his life had ended after a two-week hospital stay and the doctor telling the family that the time had come to “let him go.”
4 Jonathan returned his attention to soccer practice. Grandpa would have been so proud of me for finally making the team, he thought. Suddenly, he heard the piercing screech of brakes. Jonathan turned toward the noise and saw an elderly man lying on the sidewalk, waving a cane wildly in the air, as a reckless driver raced away, having barely missed him.
5 Jonathan rushed to the old man and was horrified with how close the man had just come to his death. Seeming embarrassed that he had fallen, the man simply dusted himself off as he struggled to get up. He said jokingly, “You know, you can’t keep a good man down.” Then, as if nothing at all had happened, he added, “I am Mr. Bert Romano. Pleased to meet you.”
6 Mr. Romano revived quickly and started talking incessantly, as though dodging speeding cars was a normal part of his day. Jonathan was intrigued by this man’s resilience and optimistic outlook. Still concerned about his welfare, Jonathan insisted that he escort him home.
7 As he stepped into Mr. Romano’s house, Jonathan was awestruck with what he saw. To his left, he saw massive bookshelves full of leather-bound volumes, all looking well-worn. “Oh, those,” he said, "those were left to me by my father, a first generation Italian.” Jonathan looked farther and noticed one wall covered literally top to bottom with photographs. “Those,” he said, “are family members. Some are still in Italy, but most have passed away; I am so lucky to have had such a huge family.” Finally, moving past the photographs, Jonathan stopped at a row of shelves beside the door. On these shelves were framed certificates and scrapbooks, all displayed prominently. “What are those?” Jonathan asked.
8 “Those,” he replied, “contain special memories from my volunteer work at hospitals; my visits there are my passion, almost my life-blood. So many patients just need a friend; I especially love working with the older ones because we share so many experiences. Besides, I can learn so much from them; the patients there teach me something new every day! My parents always taught me to take action when I see a need. I figure if I can help someone else, I’d better do my part.”
9 This man seems to be doing just that, Jonathan thought. He reluctantly left Mr. Romano for soccer practice, but he left with the feeling that there was much more he could learn from the man’s compassion for others. Maybe he can begin where Grandpa left off; I’d like to drop by and visit him again, Jonathan thought to himself.
If the passage had been told from the point of view of one of Mr. Romano’s friends from the hospital, how would it most likely have been different?
It would have emphasized Mr. Romano’s influence upon the friend in a personal way.
It would have created a sense of distrust at the truthfulness of Mr. Romano’s stories.
It would have indicated a level of uncertainty about the size of Mr. Romano’s family.
It would have created a sense of jealousy at the awards Mr. Romano received from his work.
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