In 1930, I was a student at East High School. I had emigrated in 1927 with my parents from England. At this time, I decided I would like to earn my own living by helping in a home, so asked the school counselor to help me get a position close by. She kindly did this. It was Dec. 1.

I worked for a young couple with a 2-year-old boy. My duties were to clean house, wash dishes, help cook, serve dinner and take the little boy for a walk after school. I earned my room and board and $2.50 a week.These people were very kind to me and showed me the ward house so I could go to Sunday School. One evening, I served dinner to their relatives and noticed one old man wore a little black cap on his head at dinner. When I mentioned this to my brother later, he said, "Didn't you know they are Jewish?" No I didn't, and I have often thought how kind they were to let me sing all the Christmas carols I loved while working around the house.

The lady would smile and never protested. And she gave me a Christmas gift and permitted me to spend Christmas Day with my family.

I hope this adds a happier note to one of our recent local problems.

D. Jacob

View Comments

Salt Lake City

Join the Conversation
Looking for comments?
Find comments in their new home! Click the buttons at the top or within the article to view them — or use the button below for quick access.