Imagine Roger 20 years later. What would he be like?

I think that Roger would be fundamentally different because of his experience in "Thank You, M'am."

The story's title reflects how Roger's words have probably stuck with him over time.  He is barely able to communicate his gratitude to Mrs. Jones as she closes the door.  He is unable to directly communicate this to her.  I think that Roger would have taken the gratitude and generosity she showed him and made positive choices in his...

I think that Roger would be fundamentally different because of his experience in "Thank You, M'am."

The story's title reflects how Roger's words have probably stuck with him over time.  He is barely able to communicate his gratitude to Mrs. Jones as she closes the door.  He is unable to directly communicate this to her.  I think that Roger would have taken the gratitude and generosity she showed him and made positive choices in his own life.  In 20 years, I could imagine Roger being a community service organizer or someone who works with at- risk children. Roger experienced how one person could make a difference in his life by taking the time to guide him.  It had a profound effect, and I would think that he would want to do the same with other at- risk youth.  As a result, I think that Roger remains in the city.  He sees that the same challenges that plagued him to rob Mrs. Jones still impacts young people today.  He would be committed to making sure that they realize that there is another path, just as Mrs. Jones did with him.

Remember that Mrs. Jones told Roger that when she was young, she, too, did things of which she was not proud.  She shares her experience with him to make his life better.  This is why I think that he would share his experiences with other children in order to make theirs better, as well.