Seasonal Stories 2:Peace for Christmas

In July 2008, I decided to begin a series called Seasonal Stories. The idea of these stories is that they all take place in the same Universe and in only one season. For example, A Midsummer Nightmare takes place in the summer of 1954. Usually I finish these stories within the season, itself. However, Midsummer Nightmare took long to finish because of things coming up and lack of creative ideas.

This next story I began a little after Thanksgiving and just finished a few minutes ago. It is entitled Peace for Christmas. Unlike Midsummer Nightmare, this is less of a Dramatic Thriller but more of a coming-of-age story. It also doesn't take place in one year. The story is mostly told in a flashback.

It is about a 14 year old boy named Kevin Johnson who with his mother has returned to their grandfather's home in New York. Years earlier, the mother had ran off with her boyfriend to L.A. and just recently had gotten back in touch with her father. However, the boy isn't keen about the idea for he doesn't know his relatives and would rather spend Christmas in L.A. watching the Lakers. When they arrive he snubs his grandfather. Upon seeing this he decides to get alone with the kid and tell him of a Christmas he had when he was the kid's age.

Each conversation between the boy and the grandfather takes place in this year while the flashback takes place in 1968. The idea of the story is the show that despite people think this generation is much different than the Baby Boomer Generation their are many simularities like the Vietnam Conflict and the current War in Iraq. Along with that are changes that the U.S. was making socially at the time. Overall, Peace for Christmas is a fantastic tale of love, war, friendship, and baseball and really sends a good message to people. So here it is the latest in Seasonal Stories...Peace for Christmas.

Scene 1

Setting:2008 Flying on an Airplane

(We find Kevin Johnson and his mother Patricia on an airplane, Patricia is a 35 year old blonde woman wearing a jacket and a pair of jeans while Kevin is 14 years old wearing a Lakers jersey and gold shorts whilst listening to his I-Pod.)

Patricia:I wish you would just talk to me

Kevin:After what you've done?

Patricia:Look I feel that this trip is good for you

Kevin:Mom, its Christmas break I'd rather be home going to the Lakers game on Christmas and having fun with my friends, not going 3,000 to see someone who you haven't even spoken to years.

Patricia:Well you know that I've decided to go back on past mistakes I made in the past and fix my mistakes

Kevin:You said it yourself, grandpa was always overbearing and protective.

Patricia:Well now looking back, he was right. Just enjoy it, I mean you even get to see your aunts and uncles.

Kevin:Mom, you don't even know them and you haven't since you left.

Patricia:Thats something else I need to fix. Aren't you looking forward to your gifts?

Kevin(mumbling):They can't get me anything I want.

(The plane lands at New York International Airport and they get off. As they walk into the airport they see two men holding up signs for them, its Patricia's brothers Ben(aged 32, brown hair) and Roger(aged 22 short blond hair). She runs to them and they embrace.)

Patricia:Oh my gosh, its been too long, Ben you look great and Roger, oh how you've grown.

Roger:Good to see your in good health.

Patricia:Oh thank you, I'm just glad to see you both again, where's mom and dad?

Ben:He's at the house and she's in Albany visiting her mother.

Patricia:Will she make it home?

Ben:She should be, last time we checked she was still up there but looking to come home.

Roger:Say aren't you little Kevin?

Kevin:You got the Kevin part right, but I ain't little.

Roger:Heh, kid compared to me you are

Kevin:How old are you anyways? You look young for my uncle.

Roger:22

Kevin:Wow thats like what? 8 years?

Roger:I came too late, but its fun to be the baby, you get the most attention

Kevin:Isn't it boring though being the only child at the house?

Roger:Sort of, but it means free rides to school so it all balances out.

Ben:How's Tyler?

Patricia:He sent me a letter a few months ago saying he may not make it back from Iraq in time for Christmas but theirs a good chance for Easter.

Ben:Thats a shame I was hoping to see him.

Roger:Yeah we should get to dad's house, he's been talking about this reunion all week

Patricia:Well let's get going.

(They head outside and into a car with Patricia and Kevin's luggage)

End Scene 1

Scene 2

(We find Patricia, Ben, Roger, and Kevin in the car heading to the house when it starts snowing)

Kevin:Is that snow out there?

Ben:Yeah we get at least a foot a month of it here. Living in L.A. has ruined you, kid. You never seen a White Christmas and on your first attempt in a cold city you will.

Kevin:Anyone live in the neighborhood?

Ben:Plenty of people

Kevin:I mean of my age

Ben:Well not too many its more of a retirement area for older people.

Kevin(to self):...And this trip gets even more boring.

Patricia:Don't worry, when your cousins arrive in 2 days you'll have some fun. Some are a little older but in this family age makes no difference we keep everybody involved.

Kevin(to self in a sarcastic tone):Maybe we can play Monopoly or foosball.

(They arrive at the house and enter)

Ben:Dad, we're here!

(Steve Nelson, a 54 year old male with grey hair enters the room)

Steve:Ah Ben, Roger welcome home and oh Patricia how you've grown

(Steve and Patricia embrace)

Patricia:Oh dad you look great I'm so glad to see you its been too long

Steve:I am very glad to see you again(Kevin enters). Ah-ha this must be the young boy, Kevin.

Kevin:Yeah I am...you got any sodas?

Steve:Haven't had any for years in this house

Kevin:You're kidding me right?

Steve:I kid you not son

Kevin:Well ain't that great...I'm just going to head in the car for a few minutes and chill...literally.

(Kevin heads out to the car and lays down in the back seat)

Patricia:I'm sorry dad

Steve:The boy seems troubled.

Patricia:I really don't know whats been wrong with him. He has been like this for a while now. I just wish he'd be okay with this and just relax.

Steve:I'll tell you what tomorrow you, Ben, and Roger can go out for a few hours and I'll sit down and have a talk with the boy

Patricia:Are you sure he's going to listen to you.

Steve:Truth be told I'm only going to need to keep his attention for 4 hours. I had to keep yours for 18 years til you left.

Patricia:Trust me I have raised to be more obediant to his elders.

Steve:By the time I finish talking with him he'll be alright.

Patricia:Thanks dad

Steve:Anything to help the family.

End Scene 2

Scene 3

(It is the next day we find Kevin walking downstairs where he finds Steve cooking breakfast)

Steve:Ah nice to see you up grandson

Kevin:Wheres everybody at?

Steve:They all went out for some last-minute Christmas shopping.

Kevin:Is Grandma here yet?

Steve:No, she's still in Albany. She called earlier and said theirs a good shot she'll make it.

Kevin:So what do you got on TV around here?

Steve:Ah don't worry about the TV just sit down here and lets have a talk over some pancakes, eggs, and sausage and a nice glass of O.J.

Kevin:I don't really like Orange Juice

Steve:Well I can't attack your opinion but its really good for you especially in this time of the year.

Kevin:Yeah but I'm heading back to L.A. next week I'm pretty sure I won't catch anything just by being here for a week.

Steve:Heh, its funny..

Kevin:What is?

Steve:This is the first time we ever really met and I can't see a difference between us.

Kevin:What do you mean?

Steve:We're not so different you and I

Kevin:What are you saying?

Steve:Theirs no real difference between the both of us.

Kevin:Gramps, I hate to break it to you but theres a big difference between you and me.

Steve:Trust me, contrary to what people in my generation say, their is no difference between my people and yours.

Kevin:Theirs plenty of differences.

Steve:Like what?

Kevin:Clothing

Steve:I wore jeans and a shirt when I was your age

Kevin:Well...it was different.

Steve:Such as?

Kevin:TV

Steve:Whats so different about that we had Dragnet and you have CSI.

Kevin:Look for someone like me to be hangin around with someone like you is just absurd. We're two totally different people.

Steve:Son to me 2008 might as well be called 1968 and you're exactly like me. You just don't show it. I want to tell you a story from my childhood. Its a real good one.

Kevin:How about you tell me later and I'll just go and watch TV.

(He gets out of his chair and walks away)

Steve:Whats there to watch? You got to understand December day-time TV isn't exactly anybody's cup of tea.

(Kevin comes back and sits down)

Kevin:Touche

Steve:Let me tell you a story about a time just like now.

(Flashback to 1968 where Jimi Hendrix All Along the Watchtower is playing)

Steve(narrating):1968 was a year of turmoil and a turning point for America. As the leaves turned brown and the sky grey the country was fighting two wars, one in Vietnam and one here. Bobby Kennedy had died just a few months earlier and before him Martin Luther King passed away. As the musical Hair would say, we were facing a dying nation. However, people were trying to find ways to stay happy.

One way of staying happy was music. In '68 "The Beatles'" album The White Album was released, "The Yardbirds" performed for the last time and "Led Zeppelin" for the first, and suddenly musicians who were previous just that started to form and express their beliefs. Meanwhile at home all of this had caused some turmoil within my family. My father was a World War II veteran and felt that the people fighting for "peace" were a bigger enemy than the Vietcong. My sister had dropped out of High School and ran away from home just a few years earlier only returning when she needed money or(at mom's request) visiting for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

My brother Roger was a hero to me. When I was younger I would always hang around with Roger. We would play football together, go to movies and he was just a great person to know. I felt he was invinceable for he was a Varsity Letterman for Football and Basketball and at the same time always got the most beautiful women this side of Manhatten. However, this times were over and he was now stationed in Saigon fighting the Viet Cong and fulfilling my father's generation's goal of containing communism and establishing the United States as THE power of the world.

Me? I was just a 14 year old boy who was just as confused as what was really going on as everybody else was. At age 14, I was a Freshman in High School and for once I felt like an adult. I wanted to grow up but at the same time I wanted to stay 14 forever. I knew the day was coming where I would have to grow and move on from the baseball games, the toys, and the comics to working a 40-hour week and supporting a family. Til then I just wanted to live high and forget the worries and the world and more about my own future.

(We see younger Steve reading a Spiderman comic)

Douglas(Steve's father):Steven

Young Steve:Yes, dad?

Douglas:What are you reading?

Young Steve:Its Amazing Spiderman #45

Douglas:Son, when are you going to learn that comic book heroes aren't real and the real heroes are the people fighting the war both here and in Saigon.

Young Steve:I understand dad

Douglas:Well, help your mother and I with putting up the decorations, we must get ready for your brother's return

Young Steve:Can it wait? We got plenty of time

Douglas:Any longer of a wait and I'll make sure that "Spiderman" goes into the trash can.

Young Steve:I'm going, I'm going

(Young Steve proceeds to get up and help with the decorations)

Older Steve(narrating):My father never really cared for anything beyond reality. He was sort of a realist. He was never big on movies or television or even stories. To him the only things that were real were the U.S., it's Army, it's President, Vice President, Senators, Government, People, its war, along with the key things, the father, the son, and the Holy Ghost. He had fought in World War II and saw the horrors of war and since he had criticized the entertainment business as "fake and useless" and only would watch Documentaries or the news on television.

Mary(Steve's Mother):Steven can you hold this?

(She hands him thumbtacks to hold while she positions and puts the stockings up)

Older Steve(narrating):They say opposites attract and I guess you can say this applies to my mother and father. Whereas my dad was a hard-nosed military man who spoke from a "realist" perspective, my mother was the sweetest woman in the world. She grew up dreaming of a big star and perhaps singing on broadway but the war came and with nothing going on broadway my mother became a factory worker. When my father returned from Europe, they married and got to work on a family. My brother came first then their was me...at least thats how they made it seem like.

(Their is a knock on the door)

Mary:Can you answer that, Douglas?

Douglas(sitting on his chair reading the newspaper):Sure, I'm going

(While Mary and Steve put up the stockings their is a dispute at the door)

Douglas:What do you want?

(We see Steve's sister, Anna)

Anna:Look, dad, I just want to talk to mom.

Douglas:Oh no, you're not speaking to her.

Anna:What do you mean I can't?

Douglas:Look just get out!

(They continue arguing)

Older Steve(narrating):This seemed to happen every week. My sister would come home from whatever and usually ask for money or to see mom. She had been expelled from High School after taking part in a protest for the Vietnam War that occured on campus. If that wasn't enough my dad caught her smoking marijuana and that was the final straw. He kicked her out and she hadn't been welcomed back since. I never felt it was her fault. After all, when you consider the time period and the amount of the people in the school it was hard to find someone who wasn't doing it.

Anna:Look I just want to see Mom.

Douglas:Fine, you got 5 minutes and thats it.

Anna(walking away):Thank you

(She walks over to Mary while Douglas sits down on the chair with the paper again)

Mary:Oh Anna, how are you?

Anna:I've been a feeling good

Douglas:Must be that L-S-D

(Anna gives Douglas a mean look)

Mary:So what have you been up to?

Anna:Well I've been traveling around with Robin

Douglas(looking up):Who's Robin?

Anna:Just a friend

Douglas:What kind of friend?

Anna:Just a friend, dad

Douglas:Why can't you tell me?

Anna:Because now is not the time.

Douglas:What do you mean it's not?

Anna:It's just...

(Before she finishes their is a knock on the door)

Young Steve:I'll get it

Douglas:Why be secretive about this. Why won't you just tell me?

(As they continue arguing, Young Steve answers the door where an African-American man in his early-20's with an mini-afro, headband, jean jacket, and jeans on)

Young Steve(sort of surprised):Yes?

The Man:Is Anna busy?

Young Steve:Not really just come in

(He enters once he is seen the arguing stops)

Douglas:Who the hell are you?

The Man:Sorry for the entrance, I'm Robin

(He goes out to shake Douglas' hand but Douglas just looks at him then turns to Anna, with an unconcerned look on her face)

Douglas:I see how this is.

(He leaves the room)

Robin:Umm...I'm sorry to disrupt but um I needed to use the phone.

Anna:It's understood

Robin:So is it alright if I can?

Mary:Sure

(He goes to another room)

End Scene 3

Scene 4

Older Steve(narrating):Home life was always something going on everyday. However, in school the "revolution" presence had not been quite felt by my class. In Junior High, it seemed like the change wasn't occuring. The teachers had a 1950's mindset and seemed to ignore the current issues when it came to us. Once I entered High School I experienced a different atmosphere. We were just lost.

Johnny Davis was my best friend. Him and I were just alike. His dad was like mine except he was a little nicer and wasn't really keen on the war. His feeling towards Vietnam was that communist wasn't the biggest threat to America but it's own paranoia threatened the nation. I always wished I was Johnny, it seemed easier being him.

Then there was Dana Gooden. Dana was a very good friend of mine. Her mother and mine grew up together in the city and were always close. Dana and I, however, for the longest time wasn't exactly good friends and I really blamed myself for that. I was sort of a playground bully growing up and I would always do some mean things like shove her in the mud while she was wearing her best dress.

However, to call me the bad one would be a little bit of an understatement. Dana would always find ways to look like an angel while wearing the devil horns. She did her own things like gluing my chair to my jeans(shot of a really young Steve sitting down and standing up with the chair attached to his butt) and bringing all sorts of pain(shot of Dana catching the ball at home and nailing Steve in the um...personal area with the glove and ball). The whole feud, itself was no secret to our mothers. Every Saturday they would meet at either mine or her house to play bridge and every Saturday we would try to get along only for hair being pulled and constant pinching and biting the arguing between us got to the point where are mothers said we were destined to be together.

Now, of course, my six year old self thought "Ew", but things were about to change.

(Johnny, Dana, and Steve sit down at the lunch table)

Young Steve:I am really getting tired of mash potatoes and broccoli.

Johnny:Eh, get over it Stevie, its better than our Junior High lunch.

Dana(eating):Oh, it ain't that bad

Young Steve:You like anything

Dana:That is not true

Young Steve:What do you not like?

Dana(sarcastically):You

Young Steve(clinching heart):Ow that really hurt

Johnny(eating):She got ya their Stevie

Young Steve:So are you playing baseball today, Johnny?

Johnny:I always play

Young Steve:How about you, Dana?

Dana:Nah, not today its too cold.

Young Steve:Too cold?

Dana:Yeah its a bit chilly out.

Young Steve:When has that ever stopped you?

Dana:Today

Young Steve:Oh come on Dana, whats the real story?

Dana:Fine, if you really must know, I'm going out with David Cutler

Young Steve(seemingly upset):Oh

Dana:Yeah we're going to see a movie together

Young Steve:W-what movie?

Dana:The Odd Couple

Young Steve:How ironic

Dana:He said it looks really good but I'll be the judge of that.

Young Steve:Well enjoy yourself

Dana:Oh I will

(She gets up and leaves)

End Scene 4

Scene 5

(We show Steve and Johnny walking outside)

Young Steve:I can't believe she ditched us.

Johnny:What can ya say? The girl is crazy for him

Young Steve:Yeah but we've been playing uninterrupted since the 3rd grade every day.

Johnny:I can see what you mean, but this isn't going to last forever. I mean you had to know that she would grow away from baseball and get interested into other things.

Young Steve:I just wish she would've told us so we didn't have to play a man down

Johnny:Now come on its not that hard to play 3rd and Short Stop.

Young Steve:It is when you got Brett Johnson playing.

Johnny:Don't sweat it Stevie, we'll get em tomorrow

Young Steve:I hope so

(As they keep walking they bump into Dana and David exiting the theater)

Young Steve:Speak of the devils.

Dana:Oh hey Stevie, hey Johnny.

Young Steve and Johnny:Hey

David:Ah who are these fellows?

Young Steve:Ugh, Dave its us Stevie and Johnny

David:You might have to refresh my memory

Young Steve:You played baseball with us for the longest time.

David:Its Nelson right?

Young Steve:Yeah

David:I remember you guys, dang we were a pretty good triple threat the three of us

Johnny:Very good, what made you quit?

David:Eh, I couldn't stand playing everyday. I applaud your efforts to keep the 6 year old rivalry going between you guys and the Radicals but playing baseball everyday gets really boring I prefer weightlifting. You should try it.

Young Steve:We don't need weightlifting in baseball its all about good reads, speed, and dirt.

David:You need to do something else. How about this, we do a triple date on Friday, I take her and you two take each other

(David and Dana laugh)

Young Steve:Ha ha, funny but we don't go that way.

David:I only kid, how about this, you take my cousin, Renee, she's our age and goes to Midsummer High. She's really shy but she should like you.

Johnny:What about me?

Dana:Johnny I think its clear that you and Miss Madeline Combs would be good together.

Johnny:I agree

David:Alright then, it'll be the three of us this Friday. This should be fun. I'll tell you all tomorrow where we meet. Well fellas, I'll see you all later.

Young Steve and Johnny:See ya

(David and Dana leave in a taxi)

(We go back to modern day where we find Steve and Kevin still talking while Steve is pouring coffee)

Kevin:Baseball everyday? How did you manage that.

Steve:It was easy. We all grew up in New York and back then baseball was practically the king of all sports. I remember back in '61 when Roger Maris broke the single-season record. I was in the stadium and was a bit torn because while I thought it would be great to see history I didn't want Maris to break Babe's record. Babe Ruth was a practical in the god in our eyes.

We really loved baseball. However, its no where near as good today as it was then. Back then you had real ball players. Nowadays, its just a bunch of muscleheads who care more about their wallet then team unity and winning.

Kevin:Thats all sports are gramps. Money is everything.

Steve:Money doesn't buy championships. Hard work and trust always prevails.

Kevin:I just can't see who you can even watch baseball.

Steve:What's wrong with it?

Kevin:It's boring

Steve:I can see where you can say that. What sport do you enjoy?

Kevin:Basketball

Steve:Your crazy

Kevin:How?

Steve:Basketball is probably one of the most boring sports I ever played.

Kevin:How can you call it boring?

Steve:Easy no intensity, no thinking. Its just all jumping and running. Whats so boring about baseball

Kevin:Its just it takes too long and literally goes nowhere

Steve:Like basketball?

Kevin:No

Steve:Ha ha ha, kid just relax. I only kid with you.

Kevin:So what happened on the date?

Steve(returning to narration):It was interesting. Johnny and I arrived at Dave's house around 6 and we were in for one interesting night...

Young Steve:Alright, are we ready?

Johnny:Most definately now

Young Steve:We can not let them know its our first time dating.

Johnny:Stevie, I'm pretty sure they've never been on dates either. Besides, its like David told you Renee is shy. Things should be alright

(We show the 6 of them standing in line at the movies)

David:Alright, how about Night of the Living Dead?

Johnny:I'm game

Dana:I don't really think its a good idea how about something romantic like Romeo and Juliet?

Madeline:I agree

Johnny:You girls are cowards. It's not scary

Madeline:I just don't wanna see it.

David:Fine we'lll take a vote. Its 2-2 right now. Stevie, Renee you vote.

Renee:I really don't care.

David:Alright its down to you Stevie. Make your choice

(Steve looks at David and Johnny then to Dana back to David and Johnny, back to Dana then the floor)

Young Steve(softly):Romeo and Juliet

Johnny:You have got to be kidding me...

David:Well its settled by a vote of 3-2-1 we will see Romeo and Juliet. I knew it was a triple date but not that their was 4 girls and 2 guys.

Kevin(interruping):Wait, you chose that piece of junk story?

Steve:Its not a bad story, its really good for getting ladies.

Kevin:Yeah but girls like the "scary" stuff they literally get all over you.

Steve:Maybe the girls you know but back then we had classier women, to get them into your arms was tough alone let alone even date them. Besides I enjoyed the movie.

Kevin:Well what happened?

Steve(returning to narration):After about 2 and half hours at the movies we traveled over to the down town hall where their was a dance going that night

(We see Johnny and Madeline dancing along with Dana and David, Renee and Steve are sitting down having a soda)

Young Steve:So how long have you been living in the area?

Renee:I'd say about a few years.

Young Steve:Why don't you come over to our school?

Renee:I have more over at Midsummer.

Young Steve:Well whats different their than at good ol G.W.?

Renee(hastily):Friends...

Young Steve:Well looking at Johnny, Madeline, David, Dana, and I, you're looking good with friends.

Renee(nervously):I really don't know you guys that well.

Young Steve:Stick around and you'll know us real well.

Renee:I wish I could but I really don't let anyone down at Midsummer.

Young Steve:How about they meet with us. The more the merrier.

Renee:I don't think you all and them would get along.

Young Steve:Johnny and I get along with everybody.

Renee:Well I don't know they're just...different.

Young Steve:What? Are they hippies or something?

(She gets up and pulls his arm)

Renee:Come on

Young Steve:What?

Renee:Lets dance, I don't wanna sit here all night

(She pulls him up and they dance nearby Johnny/Madeline and David/Dana. We go to after the dance where we find them outside the building where a car arrives and Johnny and Madeline leave as David/Dana and Steve/Renee stand together with arms around each.)

David:Well that was a fun night.

Young Steve:I fully agree

David:Most definately, you got your gal and I got mine.

Young Steve:Yup

(Another car arrives, David, Dana, Steve, and Renee fill in and they ride down the road to Renee's house. Once they arrive at Renee's house, her and Steve exit. He walks her to her house)

David:Stevie, I got all night, take as long as you can.

(He winks at Steve)

Renee:I really had fun tonight.

Young Steve:I did too.

Renee:You're a really good dancer.

Young Steve:Thanks, you know what? I think we should do this again next week.

Renee:I don't think we should.

Young Steve:Why not? I felt a real connection back there between us.

Renee:You might have but to me their is no real connection. I don't want to break your heart or anything but it just won't work out.

(She enters the house and shuts the door)

End Scene 5

Scene 6

Steve(narrating):Dating problems with Renee was one of many headaches I had in 1968. I felt like America in the 2nd World War fighting two fronts, the home front and the social front. Days after re-appearing and shocking my dad, Anna had decided to stay around this time and live with us under the condition that their were no drugs, alcohol, music, sex, and Robin had to be hidden. I never understood what my dad's deal was with racial issues. He had grown up in New York City which while was still segregated was a big cultural area even in the 1930's. His deal with Robin I could see because in those days the mixing of skin colors was practically a crime in the eyes of many.

Each day you could literally feel the tension in the room.

(We see Anna and Robin sitting on the couch watching TV when Douglas enters the room)

Douglas:Split, you two

(He sits down between them with Anna to the right and Robin to the left)

Douglas:So when exactly did you two meet?

Anna:It was several months ago, dad.

Douglas:Ah really, where at?

Anna:It was at Jefferson Airplane concert.

Douglas:Jefferson Airplane? Whats that some kind plane trip you took?

Anna:Its a band dad.

Douglas:I don't even think you can even consider anyone today a real musician.

Anna:Just because theirs no trumpets or pianos doesn't mean its garbage. It speaks to me.

Douglas:How can it speak to you?

Anna:Through the rhythm, the beat, and the lyrics. These musicians today understand this generation and write songs about feelings, life, and dancing. Like at the concert when Grace Slick started singing Somebody to Love and it was there I saw him. We gazed into each other's eyes and...

Douglas(interrupting):Erm, thats enough. What exactly is your story, Rob?

Robin:I'm from Georgia.

Douglas:Ah I heard it's nice down there.

Robin:Sometimes

Douglas:Your father fight in the war?

Robin:Yeah he served the last two years of it.

Douglas:Ah, you think he'd be a little upset with your choice of lifestyle?

Robin:Wouldn't know, he's dead.

Douglas:Did he die in the war?

Robin:No, got lynched by a bunch of guys who looked like you because just cause he looked like me.

Douglas:Now no need to get an attitude boy.

Robin:Boy? Who are you calling boy?

Douglas:You because thats what are you a boy to me.

Robin:I hate to break it to you, but I'm 20 years old, I'm a man just like you.

Douglas:Well I hate to break it to you but I'm 44 years old and I don't need to here any talk from some kid. You should be taught some respect.

Robin:Before you teach me anything I think you should learn some respect yourself.

(He walks out of the room)

Douglas(angrily):As long as you live in my house you abide by my rules so get back here!

(Robin keeps walking and heads up the stairs where Steve is sitting, Robin goes into his room and starts playing the guitar. Steve enters the room)

Young Steve:Is it alright if I can come in?

Robin:Sure, kid.

(Steve enters the room as Robin keeps strumming)

Young Steve:I uh heard what my dad said and I'm sorry.

Robin:Its alright kid, I heard a lot worse when I was living in Athens.

Young Steve:How bad was it in Athens?

Robin:It was like night and day. Some days it can be really fun because my friends and I would always go out play some ball, and go to dances. Life can be fun but there was always that fear of the racists breathing down our necks. I personally experienced it.

When I was 2 my dad was working as an informer for the government on klan activites. He was light skinned and as a result passed for white. He would attend meetings undercover and alert the CIA of activites. Well soon the klan was getting suspicious of what was going on and they found out he was part-black. The story goes that one night they came to our house and busted the door down and took him.

As they took him they poured gasoline all over the room and through a match on the floor lighting the house on fire. Mama and I managed to escape that night but my father wasn't so lucky. They took him to an open field, smashed his skulll and hung him. The Klan assumed we were dead but to stay in public as ourselves was too risky. My mother decided to give me up to adoption to my uncle and aunt and bolted far away as she could.

It wasn't until I was about 13 or 14 that I found out what occured. I do not know where my mother is and never really got to know my father. The only things I learned about him were from my uncle and everything he said about him was good.

Young Steve:What got you out of the South?

Robin:Hell broke loose and thats just figuratively speaking. It started in '64 when my friends and I went to a Ray Charles concert. We were on our way home when we ran into a couple of guys that didn't quite like us. They said to us, "Hey boys, just where do you think you're going". I responded by saying, "Look we're just going home, we don't want any trouble".

He turned to his buddy and said, "Look Bucky a nig who doesn't want trouble, how different for a change". A friend of mine wasn't quite the calmest and he responded by saying "If you want to come here and say that trash to us, you better be ready to back it up". He responded by saying, "Oh yeah, well lets see what you got black boy". Thats when it started, my friend shoved him to the ground and next thing I know the other one pulls out his gun nails my friend and another one of my buddies tackles him and starts beating on him.

Thats when the cops came and I didn't want to get in trouble because at the time I was working to getting a college scholarship perhaps to Grambling State or even some school up north. I ran all the way back to my house and was releived to have escaped. I, however, felt bad for my friends especially the next day when I found out that they had arrested both of my friends. Within days their families started rallying people including Dr.King. It was the very last day I was ever in Athens.

The protest started in the morning. We all arrived their around 11am at the bridge nearby the University of Georgia. From their we marched about 15 miles to the local police station. As we drew close to it thought we got ambushed by a fire hose. We just kept trying to march on when next thing I know one of the good ole boys nearby grabs my cousin...I snapped.

I ran over to the guy and soon I found myelf beating down on him, kicking him in the ribs, and giving him two black eyes. Two cops apprehended me but let go'd of me after the hose struck them. The next I knew I was running for my life and I kept running until I was out of the South. I never returned to Athens at the fear of being arrested upon arrving. Up North things have been a little better but theres still ignorant people up here who just feel that its still the 1800's and I should be working in a field.

Your father is just one in a million. Hell for all I know he's a really good guy whose only real problem can overshadow that. I don't know maybe one day he'll learn to accept me. Until that day comes and I hope its soon, he's just another brick in a wall. I'm not going to let it bother me, he's just got to accept that his daughter and I are together and that it's always going to be like that.

I'm just glad that you and your mother have accepted it. However, I would like to win your father's approval. However, its like what my uncle said, "some men, you just can't reach".

Young Steve:I'm sorry to hear.

Robin:It's alright kid, thats all behind me now. The only things I have is your sister, this guitar, and hopefully love from your family.

Young Steve:I like ya, your pretty cool

Robin:Thanks kid.

Young Steve:You know any songs on guitar?

Robin:I've been practicing some. I was reading up on how to play some Hendrix and the Beatles. However, I'm mainly a blues guy.

Young Steve:What exactly are the blues?

Robin:The blues is music that comes from your heart. Its never usually a happy ending but it can be fun.

Young Steve:Can you play a blues song for me?

Robin:Sure, I call this one Life on the Road

Came home from the show
(Guitar Strum)
Had the time of my life
(Guitar Strum)
Little did the know
(Guitar Strum)
There was fellas who wanted to start a fight

(Guitar Strum)

One by one
(Guitar Strum)
They fell down
(Guitar Strum)
The cops came with a gun
(Guitar Strum)
And arrested my buddy cause he's brown

(Guitar Strum)

We were all mad
(Guitar Strum)
So we went out and spoke for peace
(Guitar Strum)
They took all they had
(Guitar Strum)
And told us all to cease

(Guitar Strum)

I looked over to the side
(Guitar Strum)
Saw this man
(Guitar Strum)
Saw what he tried
(Guitar Strum)
Knocked him out and I ran

(Guitar Strum)

Came up to the city
(Guitar Strum)
Met some girl
(Guitar Strum)
She was pretty
(Guitar Strum)
She had curls

(Guitar Strum)

We fell in love
(Guitar Strum)
Came to her house
(Guitar Strum)
Her dad shot me like a dove
(Guitar Strum)
And treated me like a mouse

(Guitar Solo)

(Steve claps)

Young Steve:That was really good.

Robin:You should try it sometime.

Young Steve:Can you teach me?

Robin:I can do that.

Young Steve:Alright, when can we start the lessons?

Robin:Anytime

Young Steve:Can we start now?

Robin:Sure kid

(He chuckles)

End Scene 6

Scene 7

(We're back to Kevin and Older Steve at the kitchen table)

Kevin:You play the guitar?

Older Steve:Yeah

Kevin:Can you play me a song right now?

Older Steve:I'd love to but I only remember one song and I'm saving it for tomorrow.

Kevin:So what exactly happened with you and the girl?

Older Steve:Well she had a reason...

(We cut back to 1968 with Steve, Dana, Johnny, Madeline, and David sitting in the school before classes)

Young Steve:You going to play today, Dana?

Dana:It's up to David.

David:Its alright by me just make sure you drop by when you're done.

Dana:I will

David:So Stevie, have you talked to Renee?

Young Steve:Not really she told me that it won't work.

David:What do you mean it won't work? You two looked great together.

Young Steve:I don't know she just said that it wouldn't work.

David:She does this to every guy. Everytime any of us try to get her someone she leaves them high and dry. I'm not letting her kick anyone else to the side. Her number is 555-0868, call her tonight and try to get her back.

Young Steve:I don't think this is a good idea.

David:Do you like her?

Young Steve:Well yeah I do.

David:Then take my advice, pick up the phone, and call her, you will not regret it. She's the type you got to be assertive towards in order to get her. You two will hit it off just fine.

Young Steve:If you say so

(Later that night we find Steve on the phone in his room. It rings and Renee answers)

Renee:Hello?

Young Steve:Is this Renee?

Renee:Yes

Young Steve:Renee this is Stevie, I...

Renee:How did you get my number?

Young Steve:David gave it to me.

Renee:David?

Young Steve:Yeah

Renee:*sigh* Look, Stevie I made it clear the other night...I do not want to be in a relationship with you. You're a nice guy and everything, but it just wouldn't work.

Young Steve:How can it not work?

Renee:Stevie, you and I are two completely different people with completely different views and ideas.

Young Steve:Whats your opinion on the war?

Renee:I'm indifferent

Young Steve:Same here, what about baseball?

Renee:Its fun

Young Steve:I can't find anything we disagree on yet?

Renee:Its not that Stevie, you wouldn't understand

Young Steve:I don't, I want to go out with you and you think I'm nice and cute. Yet you don't want me? I really don't get it.

Renee:Fine you want to know why, Stevie?

Young Steve:Come on Renee, tell me.

Renee:I'm gay, Stevie, I'm gay!

Young Steve(stunned):W-what do you mean?

Renee:I don't like guys Stevie, I like girls.

Young Steve(frantic):How long have you been like this?

Renee:For a while now. Look theres a reason why I always turn down a guy my cousin tries to hook me up with and that is the reason.

Young Steve:Why didn't you just tell me?

Renee:I didn't want to break your heart. That night I thought you woudn't get too attached to me because you might find me boring. However, I accidently led you on and I had to drop you by the end of the night. I am very sorry Stevie, but it can't happen. I think you're nice and cute, and that says alot considering I'm not big on guys.

Their are a lot more girls out there for you Stevie and you'll find someone. I think I already know who you got a sweet eye for.

Young Steve:Who?

Renee:Dana

Young Steve:Dana?

Renee:Yeah Dana

Young Steve:What do you mean?

Renee:You like Dana

Young Steve:No I don't

Renee:Stevie, don't lie to me. I can tell you like her.

Young Steve:We'lre just friends.

Renee:Stevie, I may be a lesbian but I know a lot about connection on terms of relationships then you think I do. The reason why you picked Romeo and Juliet was to satisfy her.

Young Steve:Wow you're good.

Renee:I know these things. How much do you like her?

Young Steve:A lot

Renee:Go for it Tiger

Young Steve:But what about David?

Renee:I know this may sound dumb but from the way she looks at you and him she seems to show more for you.

Young Steve:She can't theirs no way.

Renee:You can't deny anything your whole life, Stevie. Trust me.

Young Steve:What should I do?

Renee:Go for her

Young Steve:I don't know if I can.

Renee:You can do anything if you put your mind to it, Stevie. I got to get some rest, I'll talk with you another time. Good luck, tiger.

Young Steve:Bye

(They hang up we fade out as Steve sits on his bed thinking)

End Scene 7

Scene 8

(We find Older Steve and Kevin still sitting at the table)

Kevin:Wow, that must've sucked.

Older Steve:Well, initially it did. It didn't do any good for my self-esteem. At the time I never had a girlfriend. For once it appeared I would finally get one but she throws a curveball and tells me she's a lesbian.

Kevin:Never had a girlfriend? How old were you at the time again?

Older Steve:14 years old, and never had a girl. I would go to school dances just without and date and I usually just hung around talking to Johnny and Dana.

Kevin:So did you go after Dana?

Older Steve:Your about to find out.(he begins narrating again)Christmas Eve 1968 came up to me faster than I expected. My father was anxious in the anticipation of the arrival of Roger. He had been in Vietnam since June of 1967 and we were all ready to see him. The U.S. Army had promised us that he would not be sent back to Vietnam rather come home and stay home.

It may've been Christmas Eve but that didn't change things in my family.

Douglas(walking into Steve's room):Rise and shine sun, today is a beautiful day. It's only a matter of time before your brother arrives and I want him to see us and the house at it's best so get and go and let's go.

Young Steve(half asleep):Dad, can't you just give me at least 2 more hours of sleep?

Douglas:Absolutely not, we got to get ready Steven.

Older Steve(narrating):Over anxiety can be harmful to anyone who was about to cross a line on terms of friendships with someone he had known for years. I had been thinking about Dana that entire week and whether or not I should go with it. It was Christmas Eve and the feeling of love was in the air that day especially with my sister and Robin. Something my dad didn't quite like for the occasion.

Douglas(walking by Robin and Anna):You think can stop that for a while?

Anna:Why dad? Its Christmas time, it's a time of love.

Douglas:I just don't think it's in good taste for you two to be having your love time while your brother is around.

Anna:Dad, I don't think Roger will have a problem with Robin and I.

Douglas:I'm just saying he might not feel comfortable with it.

Anna:Whatever, dad. Robin and I are going to see a few friends of mine today.

Douglas:Will you be back before 6?

Anna:Yes, dad we should.

Douglas:Is the banner done?

Anna:Yes, Robin and I finished it an hour ago.

Douglas:Alright, you two can go. Be back around 6.

Anna:Alright dad, let's go Rob.

(Anna and Robin exit as Steve enters the room in a jacket and jeans)

Douglas:Where do you think you're going?

Young Steve:I'm probably going to head to Johnny's house.

Douglas:Not until you clean the house.

Young Steve:I really don't have the time

Douglas:If you want to, call him over and ask him to help. I'm sure all he is doing is sitting around reading his comic books and listening to "music".

(Theres a knock on the door)

Douglas:I'll see who it is

(Steve starts dusting the furniture)

Douglas(in another room):Ah, you're just in time.

(Johnny enters the room with Douglas)

Douglas:Look who it is, Steven.

Young Steve:Thank god he's here.

Johnny:You ready, dude?

Douglas:He will be as soon as you sweep the floors, clean the windows and as soon as he vacuums the floor and dusts the furniture you two can leave.

Johnny:You know Mr.Nelson, I would love too but I got to(backing away toward the door)...um...fix the the screen door on the submarine.

Young Steve:I'll give you my Joe DiMaggio rookie card.

Johnny(walking forward):On second thought, my sister can do it.

(They start getting to work. A little bit over an hour later, they finish and head outside)

Johnny:So whats the deal with the money? Are we going to buy some gloves, balls, or bats or something?

Young Steve:I need to go do some shopping today.

Johnny:I thought we were going to get a game started?

Young Steve:Nah, we can do it another day.

Johnny:I don't really want to go shopping on Christmas Eve, Stevie.

Young Steve:Come on just do this for me, it's important.

Johnny:Why exactly are you doing this?

Young Steve:Do I really have to tell you?

Johnny:If you want me to come, you have to tell me what it is.

Young Steve:Fine, I'm buying something for a girl.

Johnny:Who is she?

Young Steve:I can't tell you.

Johnny:Then I won't help.

Young Steve:Fine, it's...(low voice)Dana

Johnny(at the top of his lungs):Dana?!?!??!

Young Steve:Shh....Shh...

Johnny:Are you crazy?

Young Steve:A little

Johnny:Stevie, you can't do this.

Young Steve:What do you mean?

Johnny:She has a boyfriend, and besides why would you want to diss Renee for her?

Young Steve:Oh please, get Renee out of your head, she's definately not interested in me. She even said so the other night.

Johnny:Now, how can you be so sure?

Young Steve(putting hand on his shoulder):Trust me Johnny, I know.

Johnny:Wh-what are you going to get her, exactly?

Young Steve:Thats the problem, I really don't know.

Johnny(putting his hand on his shoulder):Stevie, let's hit the mall.

End Scene 8

Scene 9

(We find Stevie and Johnny at the mall leaning on the wall eating pretzels)

Johnny:We really should get to work on this.

Young Steve:Ok you got a point, I'm just a little nervous.

Johnny:Relax buddy, let's hit the stores.

(They walk into a J.C. Penny's)

Young Steve:What do you think I should buy her? A shirt, some shoes or something?

Johnny:Wow, you're out of touch with what women want. You got to get her some jewelry.

(Steve looks across the room and sees Robin and Anna shopping)

Young Steve:Get down!

(He grabs Johnny by his shirt and they're both hiding behind dresses)

Johnny:What? What's wrong?

Young Steve:Anna's here

Johnny:Your sis?

Young Steve:Yeah

Johnny:So why are we hiding?

Young Steve:She can't know about this.

Johnny:Maybe she can help us.

Young Steve:This is supposed to be secretive.

Johnny:You already told me, what's the worst that can happen telling another?

(He gets up)

Johnny:Anna!

Young Steve:No!

(Anna and Robin turns around)

Anna:Oh, Johnny, how are you?

Johnny:I got your brother over here.

Anna:Is he?

Johnny:Yeah come over here

(She comes over and sees him hiding his body behind a dress.

Anna:You know, Stevie, I always said you look cute as a girl.(She laughs) What brings you here?

Young Steve:Just ugh shopping for...baseball gloves.

Robin:At J.C. Penny's?

Johnny:Stevie, just tell them.

Anna:Tell us what?

Young Steve:Fine, I'm shopping for a girl.

Anna:Dana?

Young Steve:Wha? How did you know?

Anna:I've been saying it for years, you two are going to be married one day.

Young Steve:Can you be kinda quiet about it.

Anna:Why?

(Out of nowhere Dana and David appear out of the corner)

Anna:Hey wait a...

(Johnny puts his hand over Anna's mouth)

Dana:Hey, how are you guys?

Young Steve:We're good, Anna and I and her boyfriend are trying to buy some jewelry for my mom.

David:What brings Johnny?

Young Steve:He's pretty good with Jewelry and stuff like that?

David:How good?

Johnny:They call me the best.

David(leaning over and whispering):Perhaps you should help me later on, I'll give you a call.

Johnny:Okie dokie.

Dana:Well we got to be going, David and I are going out to lunch. We'll see you all later.

(Dana and David leave)

Anna:Wait, I'm confused.

Young Steve:Well, thats the problem, she already has a boyfriend.

Anna:And you're trying to break them up so you can get with her.

Young Steve:I know its kinda stup...

(Anna interrupts him)

Anna:Aww, that's so cute. I'm positive that you're going to get her.

Young Steve:Really?

Anna:Yeah

Young Steve:Can you help me pick out the necklace for her?

Anna:Sure

Young Steve:I'm going to need some help writing a love note for her.

Anna:Robin can do it, he's good with poetry.

Young Steve:Alright let's go then.

(Later we find Steve and Johnny exiting Anna and Robin's vehicle at Dana's house)

Anna:Good luck Stevie

(They drive away)

Young Steve:Alright, what should we do?

Johnny:How bout I sit in the tree and look out for people and you put it at the door.

Young Steve:Good idea, someone should notice it, later.

(Johnny goes to to the tree and watches the street, Steve walks to the door and places it in front of it. Just as he turns to walk away Dana comes around the corner and sees him about to leave)

Dana:Oh hey Stevie

Young Steve:Dana!

Johnny(in tree):Dana? Uh oh

Dana:What brings you here?

Young Steve:I was...uh...

(She looks at the doorway and sees the gift)

Dana:What's this?

(She picks it up and reads the note)

Dana(reading):
I know that you are already taken
But my heart cannot wait no more
For my love has been awaken
So I place this on your door

Not to get you alarmed
But to show my love for you
I hope this gift makes you charmed
For no will break my heart in two.

(Surprised)Stevie, you wrote this?

Young Steve(lowly):Yes

Dana:Why?

Young Steve:Because, Dana...I love you

Dana:You...love me?

Young Steve:Yes, I do

Dana:Uh um...wow I really don't know how to react to this.

Young Steve:Before you say anything let me just state what I want to say. Whats on that note is not what I wrote. I am not a good writer, all of that was written was by my sister's boyfriend who is a really really good poet. However, the truth is, for the last few years I've been living in a self-denial world. Deep down I have came to the realization that I have felt this way about you for the last few years.

When we were younger, it was there. When we were always trying to pull tricks on each other, it was there. When we were fighting, it was there. Hell, even when you got with David...it was there. I can feel it and I can see it in you and I don't really want to sound rude, but you can't deny that.

I know that I look and sound a little crazy, but I'd give up my comic book collection, baseball, and even my baseball cards just to be with you.

(There is a long pause, Dana looks up)

Dana:I...I...I can't do it...

(Steve's face gets long)

Dana:You have to understand, this just cannot work. You've been a great friend to me but the whole idea of me being in a relationship with you is just completely...out of the question. *sigh* I'm sorry Stevie, but it just can't happen. We can keep playing baseball and talk to each other at school but the whole thing of you and I being together and going out on dates just doesn't seem right. David is more of a better fit for me.

He does a lot for me and overall...he's just a really good man. I don't want to take a shot at you but its just...your not the one for me. I don't think it can really happen.

Young Steve:I guess if you feel that way...I can accept it. *sigh* I really have to go, Merry Christmas.

(Steve walks away, as he does Johnny jumps out of the tree and follows him as they leave Dana turns and we see a tear in her eye)

(We go back to Steve and Johnny walking down the steet)

Johnny:I heard what she said.

Young Steve:Yeah

Johnny:I'm sorry

Young Steve:*sigh* There's nothing you could've done about it. It was a decision she had to make. Now she has to live with it. I just wish I hadn't spent all that money on that necklace.

Johnny:Well it's Christmas time you're supposed to give people gifts.

Young Steve:But not when they respond by giving you a swift kick in the head.

Johnny:Look, Dana wants to be your friend. She just doesn't want to be a friend friend.

Young Steve:Why? What exactly is wrong with me? It seems like everybody has a problem with me. My dad thinks I'm not a man, David just laughs at me, his cousin won't date me, and Dana just doesn't want to see me as more than a friend.

Johnny:Stevie, you're going to find someone one day. This is just one bad experience. Remember what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. You may not find a girl now but soon you'll find someone. Just look at Dana as preparation for your next relationship.

Young Steve:I guess you're right.

Johnny:I'm always right, now let's get you home. In about an hour or so, your brother's coming home and you'll feel better.

Older Steve(narrating):Johnny was always kind of there for me. For the first time of my life I actually began to see him as a true friend. The guy always had my back and this was one of the times. He could've said just forget it and stop your complaining like my father would but he actually cared about how I felt on certain things. I guess that's just what true friends do.

(While Older Steve is narrating we see Young Steve arriving home and entering the house when everybody jumps out of nowhere.)

Steve's Family:Surprise!

Douglas:Nevermind, it's just the other boy. Well glad to see you home, son, now can you reset everything? I want to give your brother the best "welcome home" gift anyone can give.

Older Steve(narrating):We set things back up and began to wait on Roger's return. However, as time went on that night there was no sign of him. By 10pm we were all half asleep and by close to 1am we were still up.

Mary:Honey, if you don't mind. I think we should all go to bed.

Douglas(half asleep):Huh? Oh, y-you can go, I think Roger will understand.

(Everybody except Douglas exits the room to bed)

Mary:Are you coming, dear?

Douglas:No, no, I need to stay here for him.

Mary:Alright, good night dear.

Older Steve(narrating):While we were all sleeping, dad stayed up throughout the night 2am, 3am, 4am, 5am, night turned into day and Roger had yet to arrive. It was around 10 or 11 that I had woken up and yet their was still no sign of Roger. That day we all sat there, my dad on the couch, my mother cooking meals, my sister and Robin just laying back, and me reading my comics. Around 8pm my father decided to call the Army the next day and see what the status was on Roger's return...(there is a long pause)

Kevin:Then what happened?

(Steve looks down at his feet and a tear runs down his eye)

Kevin:Wh-what exactly happened?

Older Steve:The next day around 10am we had a knock on our door.

(We return to 1968 where we see Douglas heading to the door he opens it and two men in military outfits are standing at the door)

Douglas:Yes?

1st Man:Are you Douglas Nelson?

Douglas:Yes I am, what is this about?

2nd Man:Mr. Nelson, we are from the U.S. Army.

Douglas:What seems to be the problem?

1st Man:Is your son Roger Nelson?

Douglas:Yes he is, as a matter of fact.

2nd Man:Well Mr. Nelson their appears to be a mistake.

Douglas:What do you mean?

1st Man:Last month we had your son on the list of people returning from Vietnam this Christmas. It appears we have it wrong. Your son will not be returning home.

Douglas(concerned):Well when exactly is he coming back then?

1st Man:He isn't.

Douglas:What do you mean?

2nd Man:Mr. Nelson, 6 months ago there was an attack on one of the regimes your son was in that regime.

Douglas:What are you trying to say?

1st Man:There was a mix up. Mr. Nelson, your son is dead.

(Douglas' face drops and initially he is sadden then angered)

Douglas:Get away from my house and never come around me again.

1st Man:We're very sorry, Mr. Nelson.

Douglas:Sorry? Thats what you are? Sorry? It was your people that told me that my son was coming home after a year and half of fighting for this country. Then you come to my door a day after Christmas and you tell me that there was some kind of mix up and that he's been dead for 6 months but you idiots can't identify his body so you tell someone just like me that there son is dead?

2nd Man:Mr. Nelson, we understand what you're going through right now.

Douglas:Let me ask you, do either of you have kids?

2nd Man:We do not, but we understand what....

Douglas(interupting):Thats my point exactly. You really don't get it. They send to bums like you two whose never had kids, whose probably never suffered as much as I have. I grew up with literally nothing. You two look like you just walked out of the best fancy hotel in New York City.

I spent 3 years in Europe fighting for this god damn country. I came home and married my dream girl and we had 3 beautiful children. I sent my son over to Vietnam to help repay the country for the good it's done for me and in response they lie to me and get my son killed. I never want to see any of your dispicable...(he breaks down, falls to his knees and begins to cry. The two Army Men and Mary try to comfort him).

Older Steve(narrating):For the first time in my life...the world looked less like a place of fun, joy, and life but as a cruel place. For the first time in my life I saw my father, who was probably the strongest man I've ever known, fall to pieces within seconds. The harsh reality was there. I had lost Dana, my brother, and my faith in the world. It felt as if the sun had just gone down on me.

(We return to 2008)

Kevin:I'm...I'm sorry.

Steve:There is nothing you can really do about it. It is just something that happened

(He gets up and pours a cup of orange juice. As he does this Patricia, Ben, and Roger enter)

Ben:Hey we're back!

Steve:Ah welcome home.

Patricia:Did you two have fun today?

Kevin:It was interesting.

Steve:Well what are we waiting on lets get dinner ready and watch James Stewart.

Patricia:Have you heard from mom?

Steve:Yeah she said she'll be home tomorrow and she has a big surprise.

Patricia:I can't wait

End Scene 9

Scene 10

(Its Christmas morning, we find everyone downstairs including Roger's Girlfriend and Ben's wife and son unwrapping presents)

Kevin:Awesome, a new Kobe jersey!

(Steve walks down stairs in a robe with a cup of orange juice)

Steve:Ahh, did you all love your gifts?

(They nod there heads yes)

Steve:Only the best for my children and grandchildren.

Kevin:Where's your gift, Grandpa?

Steve:My gift is coming soon.

(Theres a knock on the door)

(Steve opens the door where Johnny, now 54, enters)

Steve:Ah Johnny boy!

Johnny:Stevie, my friend, how is the family?

Steve:We're doing good, come on in.

(Behind him Madeline enters)

Steve:Maddy, how have you been?

Madeline:I've been alright, Johnny and I just had breakfast and the family is coming over around 3.

Steve:Thats good, how is your boy?

Johnny:He is doing fine, just hired by ESPN to cover baseball. He also got to meet Robert Lysander.

Steve:The Pitcher?

Johnny:Yeah, he told me that he'll be giving me my old card of Robert signed by him. I'm pretty excited. You got your whole family around?

Steve:Yup, including my daughter and grandson

Johnny:Ah, let me see everyone.

(Steve, Johnny, and Madeline walk into the Living Room)

Steve:Patricia, you remember Johnny?

Patricia:Oh Johnny, how has life treated you?

Johnny:Its been alright, had its ups and downs.

Patricia:How has Joe been?

Johnny:Journalism has gone well for him, I was hoping he'd stick to baseball but its his choice and so far its been a good one.

Patricia:Thats good to hear. Oh Madeline, you still look great.

Madeline:Thank you, I never wanted to get old but things just happen but I still look great.

Johnny:Ah, is this your boy(pointing at Kevin).

Patricia:Yes, it is. Kevin introduce yourself to Mr.Davis.

Kevin:Hi, Mr. Davis, I'm Kevin, Kevin Johnson.

Johnny:Pleased to meet you and please call me Johnny.

(Kevin gets a surprised look. There is another knock on the door)

Patricia:I'll get it

(She goes to get it)

Patricia(from another room):Oh yes! Now the party can begin!

(Kevin looks over where Patricia has entered with a now-58 year old Anna and 60 year old Robin)

Patricia:Oh Aunt Anna, how have you been all this time?

Anna:Still kickin' and enjoyin life.

Patricia:Uncle Robin, are you still doing concerts?

Robin:You betcha, your aunt and I recorded an album for Valentine's Day. Its scheduled to be released next month. We're doing covers of a few good love songs and recorded one I wrote called Love Over Time. It's about our relationship from around '68 to now.

Patricia:Oh thats beautiful, Uncle Robin. Have you had a chance to meet my son, Kevin?

Robin:Bring him over.

(Kevin enters the room)

Patricia:Kevin, this is your Uncle Robin and Aunt Anna. They're...

Kevin:Musicians, Grandpa told me about them. He also told me that Robin taught him how to play Guitar.

Robin:Is very much true.

Kevin:Maybe you can teach me sometime. Are you going to be in L.A. anytime soon?

Robin:I'll be promoting on the West Coast for the album next month. I'll stop by and help you out.

Kevin:Awesome, I mean thank you.

(A few hours pass by and we find everyone together at the dinner table)

Steve:Has everyone enjoyed their Christmas?

(All nod their heads)

Steve:Well whenever your mother or in some cases grandmother arrives we can start dinner.

(Theres a knock on the door)

Steve:Speak of the devil, herself.

(He goes to answer)

Patricia:Kevin, have you enjoyed it.

Kevin:I guess, I just..

Patricia:Just, what?

Kevin:I really miss dad, this is the 2nd Christmas without him

(Steve and his wife re-enter the room)

Steve:Patricia, Kevin, we have a surprise for you.

(Behind them enters Tyler Johnson, Kevin's father and Patricia's husband wearing his uniform)

Kevin:Dad!

Patricia:Tyler!

(They go over and embrace him)

Tyler:I am glad to see you both again.

Patricia:What exactly happened, I thought they weren't allowing you to come home?

Tyler:Well I appealed to the commanding officer who appealed to the President who agreed to allow me to come here for Christmas to be with all of you.

Kevin:How long will you staying this time?

Tyler:At least for 6 weeks.

Kevin(a little dissapointed):Oh

Tyler:Don't feel bad, my son, I will make sure I'd be back for your birthday in the summer and for Christmas. Instead of being upset for the short term we should celebrate us being together again.

(After dinner we find everyone in the living room watching TV. Steve heads out into the kitchen and Kevin follows him)

Kevin:Grandpa?

Steve:Yes?

Kevin:I hope you don't mind, but how did everything turned out.

Steve(narrating over clips of what he is saying):Christmas 1968 changed a lot of us forever. Initially, Anna and Robin were going to split up because they didn't want to upset my father any more. However, as you can see they didn't for my father would begin to accept the relationship and Robin as his son-in-law(clips of Anna, Robin, and Douglas talking and Douglas shaking his hand). In 1970, they would finally marry. My father, himself would experience a political change.

After years of vouching for the war, my father's tune began to change as he began speaking out against the war and even attended a few anti-war rallies. Later he would tell me that losing Roger wasn't worth it when it came to this war. He and my mother would soon leave New York for Florida where they spent the rest of their lives, although he moved back to New York after my mother's death in 1993. He spent the final years of his life living next door until his death four years ago.

Johnny and Madeline would stay together throughout High School and would marry in '75. From there they had one son, Joe and two twin daughters, Kay and May. Johnny wanted to play Professional Baseball but a knee injury forced him to settle for being a Little League coach and Manager of our alma mater's baseball team. The baseball games, itself, would come to an end by '72. Our final daily game was our first night game.

With permission from the local minor league team at the time, we were allowed to play our final game at their stadium at night. The local ABC affiliate was told of our story and offered to televise our game locally and have highlights of it on Wide World of Sports. In our final game we knocked off Midsummer 4-3. It was one of the saddest days of my life.

Kevin:What ever happened with you and Dana

Steve(narrating as his wife enters the room):Well, a few days after rejecting me she apoligized to me. David and her would break up a few months later and officially on Valentine's Day 1969, her and I would get together. We would graduate high school together and in 1973, we had our first child, a beautiful girl named Patricia. A few years later our son Ben and in 1986, your uncle Roger, named for my brother was born. Close to 40 years later her and I are still together(he puts his arm around his wife, who is now revealed to be Dana) and our family is united.

(Steve and Dana turn and kiss as Kevin gets a smile on his face. Robin enters the room)

Robin:Hey Stevie, I was just thinking, maybe for the Holidays, me, you, Anna, and Dana can do a song for everybody.

Steve:I'm all for it, how about you, Dear?

Dana:I'd love too

(Steve and Dana enter the living room as it ends they perform Jingle Bells for the rest of the family)

The End

I hope you enjoyed this story. Stay tuned in May for my next Seasonal Story entitled, Spring Fever. I hope you enjoy that. I also recommend, if you haven't, read Midsummer Nightmare along with other stories on here such as Blue Denim and Sex Has Consequences.

Happy Holidays.