Help Available

"You're home early," said Mom when Marlee came in after school. "I thought you were going to stay and try out for your class play today."Marlee shook her head. "I changed my mind. The play sounds really fun, but I'm not sure I'd be able to say lines in front of an audience--it makes me nervous thinking about it.""I'm sorry, Marlee," said Mom. "Have you prayed about that problem?""Prayed? Not really." Marlee hesitated. "I don't knowit just seems like I should be able to solve my problems myself."Before Mom could answer, Marlee saw her cat rolling on the floor, tugging at her collar. "I think something's wrong with Gertrude." She bent down to see what was wrong, but Gertrude jumped up and scooted away on three legs. "Help me, Mom!" Marlee exclaimed.Mom joined her. "One of her claws is stuck in a slit on her bell. Come on, Gertrude. Be still so we can help you."But Gertrude would not be still. Each time Mom or Marlee came close, she managed to dodge their hands."I think we'll have to wait