Growing up is hard enough, but it’s worse as a pacifist whose country is at war. Jim and Brian are neighbors, best friends, and high school graduates heading for college. In 1970 the Vietnam War raged, and Brian and Jim, both pacifists, worry about being drafted. To make matters worse, both men are gay and far from out. When Brian finally admits his feelings for his friend, he’s surprised and pleased Jim feels the same. Brian’s father teaches jujitsu, and the two men learn the ancient art, though neither believes in fighting. They struggle to overcome their pacifist tendencies amid racial tension and homophobia that threatens to tear their lives -- and their love -- apart. Can Brian and Jim turn fear into courage and learn to defend themselves, and each other, to create a life of love?

Fear and Courage

Once, a dock manager had made a comment under his breath that it was better when all the truckers were white. Brian’s dad had said a lot of mankind’s history came from Africa.


Now, they finished washing the truck and put away the cleaning stuff. “Start the engine, son. I need to check the pressure lines and gauges.” When he finished, he nodded for Brian to turn off the engine.


Yelling from Jim’s house next door grabbed their attention and they traded glances. Oh, no. They were at it again.


Brian winced and asked, “Can’t you do something?”


“Not unless Jim says it’s okay, and you know he never does. I know what I want to do, but that’s sort of illegal.” He gave a sad smile.


Dad reached low to wrap an arm around Brian’s shoulder. “Come on, let’s get out of this heat.”


Inside, Brian lovingly bumped his dad. “I’m glad I got you as a dad.”


Chapter 3