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

She moaned. “They’re busy and I feel guilty making them take time for me.”


Brian said nothing. Family shouldtake care of each other.


Mrs. Guardino pulled them close again and kissed their cheeks. “You want to know what happened, right? Well, I had a stroke, but not too bad and I’m healing. The doctor said I’m lucky. I’ll be out of here in a week, go to some rehab place for a week or three, then back home, although my family wants me to go into an old people warehouse.” She sighed and rested back, pointing to her water glass with a straw.


She pulled him close and whispered, “Does Jim know?”


Brian nodded. “He’s my boyfriend.”


Chapter 46