Bluebird Meadows of Stevensville, Michigan

In all her years of broadcasting, Lisa was having more difficulty with the Adam Sampson story than any other she had worked. Should the story be downplayed or should they do a special? What should they say to the home network? If all this was true, Lisa knew her career would really take off if she handled this the right way. On the other hand, if this guy was a crackpot and Lisa treated him with credibility, that could ruin her career.

Back at the cabin, the pastor emerged from the bathroom just as the news was coming on. Adam had already turned on the TV and sat down on the floor nearby.

The Long Lake story was the main news piece. Lisa did all of the narration. Her delivery was one of flatly presenting the facts, with very little opinion. The scenes from the morning’s camcorder, Pastor Kanger’s studio interview, and the mobile unit’s visit to the resort were artfully edited to go along with Lisa’s voice. She ended the piece saying that she hoped that it was all indeed a purposeful act of God, for that was something the world could use right now. She also promised to have more on the story tomorrow.

Adam turned off the TV. "Well, pastor, what did you think?" asked Adam.

The pastor felt like this was going to be some sort of trick question and hurriedly thought through all the responses he might make and was trying to select the best response.

"From the heart" interrupted Adam. "Don’t tell me what you think I want to hear, but tell me what’s in your heart."

The pastor felt guilty, getting caught this way. "I thought it was very good. Ms. Walters presented the facts without distortion . . . it was an accurate report about what happened here and what you said. She treated the issues fairly." The pastor looked up carefully to see if he had said what Adam expected.

"I agree" said Adam.