For the next few minutes, the famous producer and director give an entertaining and informative tale of the obstacles and victories that led to the eventual making of this movie. I’m moved by the passion and dedication that they describe.
While not widely publicized, Stuart told me that many people stood in the way of getting the message out. You’d think that protecting the health and safety of people around the world would be a common goal for everyone. However, for somepeople the cost and trouble of making the changes outweighs their interest in doing what’s best for others. That saddens me.
In closing, the director and the producer take turns introducing the team that worked tirelessly behind the scenes, the sponsors who contributed funds, the actors who lent their talents, and of course, Stuart as representative of the Foundation.
Stuart stands, turning to wave to the audience as the people leave the stage, and the red velvet curtain goes up.
As Stuart sits, the theater goes dark, and the deep announcer’s voice says, “And now for the show.Water Everywhere, None to Drink. May everyone benefit from this experience.”
I’ve never been one to particularly enjoy documentaries or educational films, but this one is different. The message is conveyed through travel to countries around the world—some are poor, and some are wealthy. It doesn’t matter. They all have problems caused by not protecting the water supplies from agriculture and farm runoff.
Real people talk about the hardships they’ve endured. As a tear runs down my cheek, Stuart reaches for my hand, squeezing it. I can’t imagine not having safe food and water. Worse yet, I’m now questioning the sources of my own food and water.
The film turns more upbeat when scientists explain realistic changes that would be manageable if only enough people would speak out and insist that we solve this problem.
The last scene is a call to action as a well-known actor shares a message. “Leading the charge for change is not someone else’s job. It’s yours and mine. When this film ends, turn to your neighbor and tell them what you will do to help. Don’t wait to make a commitment. Do it tonight.”
The screen goes dark and the lights go up.
I turn to Stuart. My voice quivers from emotion as I vow, “I’ll help you fix this. I promise.”
He nods, searching my eyes for something, but I’m not sure what.
22
BROOKE
The crowd around us applauds loudly.
Eventually, the clapping subsides, and the emcee’s voice once again booms from the speakers, saying, “This concludes the premiere ofWater Everywhere, None to Drink. Have a good night.”
While the majority of the crowd heads to the exits, Stuart and I remain at the front, surrounded by VIPs congratulating him on the movie and telling him how they plan to help.
Clearly, the movie was eye-opening and moving. It managed to educate, raise awareness, and instill a need to become involved in the solution. At the same time, it didn’t come across as preaching or chastising society’s failures, which was impressive.
José from the PR firm approaches. “Lord Sandridge, it’s time for you to leave. Please follow me.”
“Thank you,” Stuart replies.
With a quick wave to the well-wishers, we follow José toward an exit. As we step from the main theater into an adjacent hallway, a bloodcurdling shriek cuts through the chatter.
“What was that?” I gasp, my head whipping toward the lobby on our left in search of the source of the scream.
“I don’t know, but it didn’t sound good,” Stuart responds.
Security guards rush our way and redirect us in the other direction, opening a door to a side room.
Stuart asks, “What’s going on?”
“Mr. Champion is dead,” one of the guards explains.
“Oh my god, that’s awful. He’s one of the Foundation’s board members,” I say, stunned as a shiver runs down my spine.
Stuart pulls me against his side as he asks, “Did he have a heart attack? Dad said he’s had issues in the past.”
The security guard shakes his head. “The cause isn’t clear, so we need to make sure you’re safe.”
“What makes you think it wasn’t a health issue or an accident?” I ask.
