Ursula's Candle.pdf

Ursula, an 87-year-old woman, is preparing for her day, organizing her small closet and choosing an outfit. She reflects on her life, from having an abundance of clothes to struggling and eventually prospering in the United States.

Charles Stewart Gray, a middle-aged man, is having a romantic encounter with a woman named June, but his mind is preoccupied with thoughts of another woman, Felicia Tafoya.

Reuben Montanez, a young man, is deciding what to wear for the night, considering a Dodgers jersey with his name on it, but ultimately choosing a different shirt. He thinks about his brother Julian, who died, and his father, who left when he was a child.

Ursula receives a nightly call from her daughter Deborah at 7:45, discussing their daily lives and family. Ursula's son Mike calls only once a week, on Sundays.

Reuben gets ready for the night, wearing an oversized shirt and baggy jeans, while his mother works at a liquor store. He thinks about his father's absence and his brother's stories about him.

Ursula answers the phone, trying to sound cheerful, but her mood has been declining since moving to the Los Angeles area after her husband Bernie's death. She reflects on her life, including her retirement in Sun City, Arizona, and Bernie's sudden death.

Reuben comes to terms with his father's absence at the age of 12, feeling angry but also grateful for his brother Julian's sacrifices.