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

Jim’s mom tried to take the screwdriver, but Jim refused to surrender it, and Brian knew he would be justified to stab the jerk.


“No one is getting kicked out,” Jim’s mom said. “We all need to calm down.”


Jim stood his ground. “Brian, call the police.”


A woman answered. “San Jose Police. How can I help you?”


“I need the police. My friend’s mom’s husband is hitting her.”


“It just stopped and my friend’s holding a screwdriver to keep his stepfather away from his mother.”


George tried to get to the phone, but Jim thrust out the screwdriver to hold him at bay.


“Not yet,” Brian said, “but he threatened to kill my friend. Again. The police were here earlier.”


“Okay, son, we’ll send someone right out.” Brian heard talking in the background. “Okay, two officers are on their way.”


George glared at Brian, who wondered what Mahatma Gandhi would do.


Chapter 25