9 - Search

Carlos began to type the information into his search engine and to his surprise, before he could finish the entry, auto-complete suggested the exact phrase as Juan dictated. 

Psalms 30:5, “For his anger is but for a moment, and his favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.”(ESV)
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Juan went on to do something that he hadn’t done in ages; something he felt he never would again:  he told Carlos his story.  

He talked about his days as an investment VP.  He detailed his success, his fast-tracked promotions, and even his elaborately decorated office, which interestingly was only 4 blocks from their very location.  He passionately told him about the cars he used to own with great detail and accurate specificity for each make and model.  He talked about his accomplishments in such a powerful way that left Carlos mesmerized.

“So,” Carlos said, “forgive me for asking this, but…”

“…what happened?” they said in unison, an impressive coincidence that caused them both
to laugh. 

When the laughter died down, Juan asked, “Do you have a cell phone?” To this, Carlos replied, “Yes”, while pulling it out. 

Juan said, “Google ‘Juan Ramirez, Investment VP of Grace Financial, Inc.’ and tell me what you get.  Carlos began to type the information into his search engine and to his surprise, before he could finish the entry, auto-complete suggested the exact phrase as Juan dictated.  Carlos tapped the suggestion, hit search, and was definitely blown away by the many headlines.

They read ‘Juan Ramirez Terminated for Financial Fraud.’  ‘Ramirez Arrested for Drug Trafficking and Possession.’  ‘Juan Ramirez Sued for Millions by Investors.’  ‘Public Auction: Property of Juan Ramirez’ ‘Ramirez:  Released from Penitentiary after 7 Years.’  However, the last one he read was clarifying.  It was posted in the gossip columns 7 months ago:

‘Juan Ramirez:  From High-Roller to Homeless – Caught on Camera’
Carlos clicked the picture, and sure enough it was Juan.  The very Juan seated before him.

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