Both were interested in the life Melton McLaurin led. However, Jerry was particularly interested in social life; while Miss Carter was more interested in her academic career. Their interest caused a strong and deep connection with the two. They taught him many life lessons. Like being an honorable man and respecting others. Many of them were instilled by his grandfather. But, the realization that segregation was a problem that some couldn't overcome was when Melton came home from college and saw Jerry and was called "sir." McLaurin had respected them far more than any other black person in Wade, and upon hearing this respect, he found himself in a drunken state.