Seth’s Courage

Seth was walking down the school hallway when he saw a group of boys huddled in a corner. The boys were laughing and joking around. He wondered what was so funny, so he walked up close to listen.

Sam, one of the boys, noticed and said, “Seth, old buddy. What are you doing in social studies?”

Unsure what to say, Seth replied, “Listening to Mr. Oldham’s lecture.”

“No, I mean during the lesson,” said Sam.

“I don’t think I get what you mean,” replied Seth.

“I dare you to put gum on Franklin’s chair,” whispered Sam.

“I’ll think about it,” responded Seth. He knew that if he didn’t do what the group said, they would turn on him. On the other hand, Franklin was a kid who had mental disabilities. He seemed nice and was always smiling.

“How could I do that to Franklin?” wondered Seth.

Just then, the bell rang, and the boys filed into class. Sam slipped Seth a stick of gum. Seth knew he was supposed to chew it up and put it in Franklin’s chair.

At that moment, Franklin entered the room with some commotion. Seth could hardly believe it when Franklin sat next to him. Sam kicked Seth’s chair and started laughing.

Seth took the piece of gum and handed it to Franklin, “Franklin, would you like a piece of gum?” Seth turned back just in time to see Sam’s scowl. He couldn’t help smiling to himself.