Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones from the short story “Thank You Ma’am” is a tough yet motherly and empathetic character. These three contradictory character traits show in her actions, thoughts, and words. Mrs. Jones exemplifies empathy when she can relate to Rodger’s situation and when she doesn’t want to ask him about things that could possibly be embarrassing to him. “The woman did not ask the boy anything about where he lived, or his folks, or anything else that would embarrass him.”(3) this shows that Mrs. Jones is motherly as well because she cares about the boy’s feelings and doesn’t want to make him uncomfortable. On page one Mrs. Jones says “You ought to be my son. I would teach you right from wrong. Least I can do right now is…
