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I almost died today (car accident)

too late. I am taken now.

Should of listen the good advises.

Finished my history benchmark/journal. now i sleep.

After analyzing and comparing the opportunities of a girl living in morocco and a girl living in the United States, I’m satisfies to say that I live here. Almost 50% of the girls from morocco don’t enroll high school. What do they girls do? They go home and learn how to do the chores of the house. Why? Because they need to be ready, for when they get marry. This is a completely different life style, for them family is the only thing that matters. This is expected because a good amount of their population is Islamic (religion). I feel that by the time that little girl hits her 40s, she will become depended on her husband, because she won’t be able to do anything else.

 

 

So today I probably heard something that I will rarely hear in my lifetime... or well working with the pharmacy that I work at now... My boss had finally said "Good job Oliver." It was a bit surprising because she usually says "Make sure to do a good job!" but never actually coming back to acknowledge the hard work that I have done. I learned to get used to it and just do what my job is after all thats... well my duty. Shocked to hear just the words "Good job" come out of her mouth. Oh and the good job was about a notice that was sent from the city of Philadelphia for carding a minor for cigarettes. I felt pretty special. She probably just said it because they did not get fined a bunch of money.... 

I often forget to write stories.
I always have one to tell I just forget to tell it. 

I went to a story slam tonight at World Cafe Live with Freda, Robbie, Christine, and Harrison. It was very nice. The stories started off kind of bad but then Christine went after much pressuring and encouragement. She did fantastic and everybody in the audience was laughing at her jokes. After Christine Ms. Weinrubb went and her story was really good as well. I really liked being there I felt so adult like. I kind of wish we could drink, not so we could get a buzz going on, but more so we can just look cooler with our wine glasses.  I warned Harrison not to put a lemon in his water because lemons carry much bacteria and are pretty unsanitary. Don't believe me. Google it.

- En el principio del libro se conoce a Yara y a su familia de cuantro. El libro esta escrito como si fuera un diario. Se trata sobre la vida de Yara en medio de los problemas politicos que están sucediendo en Cuba en estos tiempos. En el principio ella habla sobre como su familia se esta tratando de mudar para Miami, Florida con el resto de su familia. Su papa esta asiendo esto para que su familia no tengo que tener que vivir entre todo este trauma politico.


- En la segunda parte que a leído está Yara en la escuela del campo. Ella esta sufriendo porque es la primera vez que no esta con su familia por mucho tiempo, también esta su hermana mayor pero no la ve por la diferencia de edad. También en esta escuela que supuestamente esta para poder educar sobre las tierras de Cuba, pero ella pronto de da cuenta que solo los usan a ellos como labor gratis. 



- En esta parte del libro Yara pierde a sú mejor amiga por los problemas del govierno, por que los padres de sus papa si los apoyan pero la familia de Yara va salir de Cuba a buscar refugio en un mejor pais, donde ahi van a poder ser mas libres, y muchos de sus vecinos no apoyan esta asi que tienen que tener mucho cuidado a quien le dicen y que tan intensa es.

I created my own audiobook!

A selection dedicated to the ever-going Israeli-Palestinian Conflict that has plagued those nations for all too long. In a battle of territory, it somehow refrains from ever growing old; this is a daily issue. From people on the inside and out, these pieces are here to inform of the depth and reality that goes down behind these borders.

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Act I, Scene 1

Character:
Lael, a Jewish female reporter who questions the essence of the problem.

Prologue: A woman with shoulder-length brown hair and confused eyes sits on love seat watching television, wondering where did it all go wrong.

LAEL
Colors, sounds, texture; none have reached my eyes because it doesn’t matter. It never mattered. The television in front of me couldn’t even keep my attention. What was the use? Sitting here, doing absolutely nothing. Waiting for the next day to come, to wake up, go to work, come home, make dinner, and fall asleep on this love seat only to wake the next day and repeat the process. But, what was the use? It all amounts to nothing in the end. It’s not like I’m helping anyone but myself. I’m being selfish without having the intention to be.

I’m lucky. I’m on the other side of the border. The safer side, the richer side, the better side, the safer side. I’m married, I have kids, I have a job, I have a house - what more could any sane person ask for? But, people on the other side don’t have that. The luxury of sitting with nothing on their plate; without a care in the world. They don’t have that option. Instead, they wake up every morning and leave home - not knowing if the place they headed to is still there or their family will be there when they get back.

Palestinians are only miles from this house. What makes me better than them? Are their lives any less valuable than mine? I don’t understand. How can anyone, anyone allow others to live like that? To everyone else in the world, it doesn’t matter. The strikings, the destruction; we need change. I want it to change. People are blind, ignorant and just don’t care - it doesn’t affect them. Whether a child lives or dies in Gaza, won’t make a difference. Her death will just only spark more controversy, more tension and more death to those who don’t mean any harm. That little girl will just be another death, another causality, another number to add to the total death count.

It’s stupid, this whole ordeal. Officials argue or “have peace talks,” and accuse each other of wrongly accusing each other and so on and so forth. Militant groups return to violence as a way that appears to make a statement towards the government or in the Name of God, which I fall to recognize. The only thing they succeed in doing is killing innocent bystanders and getting blood on their hands because somehow, in their minds that gets there point across. And, we can’t forget the border crossing that is practically sealed shut to anyone getting in or out. Honestly, I find it funny. No one notices that it’s lives there playing with. The officials, the government, the U.N., the suicide bombers, the smugglers, and even the reporters, like me.

As easily as I flip through these channels and switch between shows, it reminds me of how lives are being treated. That world seems to be giving up on those who are faultless, turning off on their lives as easily as I turn off the T.V. I’ve seen things, but maybe, I haven’t seen enough. To make the right decisions, to actually look at all the facts, to take to take the time to choose a side.

But what can I do? I’m just lone person in a endless battlefield.  Maybe, if I see enough blood, I won’t be as disturbed. Maybe, if I watched someone being killed, it won’t have as much as of an affect. And, maybe if leave my job, I’ll be free. But, not blind. I’m trying to tighten my grip on reality, but I can’t let go of what is in front of me here. I have to keep reporting. I can’t stop now. I’m not going to be just another reporter. Maybe, I’ll save a life. Or, maybe, I’ll be just another death, but I’m okay with that. Because at least then, I’ll make a difference. Because I’m not gonna tune them out - the tears, the screams, the blood. To me, life is worth more and I’m not going to turn off the T.V.

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Act I, Scene 2

Character:
Noor, a child who does not understand the depth of the problem.

Prologue: A young child sits in her room - lights off, silence eerie. She plays a trinket.

NOOR
    (tracing the object)
Hey. I’m doing great. Mommy and Irfan are good, too. It’s kind of nice here. The shooting and the shells don’t come as often, which means everything must be getting better. I hope no more people will die because of them. I don’t want them to lose their biggest brother like I did.

I’m helping around the house now. Mom is kind of busy with work, so I have be a big girl and take charge and do what big girls do. Me and Irfan clean and dust and sweep and wash and dry and do all those things Mommy does. I feel like I’m helping a lot, so that way when she comes home, she won’t have much to do.

We go to school again now, me and Irfan. A different school. It’s a little farther because Mommy said we can’t go there anymore. I think it’s because it blew up but Irfan just shushed me. He said it didn’t matter, that it was ‘in the past,’ whatever that means. But, it’s nicer. I know some of the kids from our old school but a lot of them are new and I’ve never seen them before. But, I have some new friends now and that’s nice. I like them; they make me smile and I make them smile. There was this one girl. Her name was Raina. She was sitting alone. But, I went up to her and said hi. We became friends. Yesterday, she wasn’t there. The teacher said she would not be coming anymore. I asked why, but she didn’t say anything.

Irfan is changing now. He doesn’t talk to me as much but he’s just always there. He always in the room I’m in and if he’s somewhere else, he gets all sneaky-like and watches when he thinks I’m not watching, but I can see him because I’m sneaky-like, too. But, he’s always, always watching. It makes me feel like I have to be watched - that I can’t be trusted. me. He’s acting like he has to watch me, instead of liking to watch me, like he used to. I think he thinks that watching me is a chore and I don’t want to be chore. I want to be Irfan’s little sister, just that, only that.

(smiles) You know something, Sami. I still didn’t give it to Irfan. I wanted to, the day you died, but I couldn’t. I wanted it, I wanted something - anything - to remember you by. He had your clothes, your chores, the rest of your room, your everything but all I had was memories. Nothing real, memorable. I needed it. I needed to remember you. But, I am losing you. (voice breaks) Your voice, your face. I can’t remember you. This (clutches the object) is all have and I’m not going to give it. I won’t. I just won’t.

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Act I, Scene 3

Character:
Irfan, a twelve year old who is a both an older and younger sibling.

Prologue: Two young boys sit in an alleyway, side by side. The shadow rests upon them, making their figures indescribable. They are both silent, waiting for the other to start. In the distance, the bustling of a market can be heard.

IRFAN
Yup.
Mom’s good.
Rana’s fine.
School’s...
    (pauses)
School. You?
Doing all of your homework?
That’s good.
So, Avi... It’s been a while, hasn’t it?
What happened? You just kinda disappeared for a few weeks there.
Your dad? Again?
I know. Your house isn’t that far from here and it’s not like we  o anything but sit here and talk... Except for that one time.
    (laughs)
What? You don’t remember?
But it was so funny.
How did you even manage to shoot the soccer ball that high? The third floor, how was that possible. Honestly, the managers of that building should have praised you instead of chasing us down.
Yeah, because I didn’t do it.
Fours years. But, your face when your dad stopped us from running all of town. (pauses) Priceless.
    (grins and laughs. the boy sheds a fake tear, then pauses)
Life is life. Me and Noor are going back to school, so that doesn’t take up most of the time, then helping around the house will.
Oh, yeah. You don’t know. Mom got a job.
I know. I never thought she get one too, but she landed the job a few weeks ago. So, money isn’t that big of an issue now. It’s just that she’s not around as much, so I have to watch Noor. But, I don’t mind because she’s happy. And, she hasn’t been this happy since dad died. And, since she happy, I’m happy.
Yeah. But, some people don’t like her having a job.
Like the neighbors. The women used come around the house and talk about her. They say she needs to get married. That “a woman like her shouldn’t be trying to get a job.” That “she could get that she could get married easily.” But, Mom said she isn’t interested in getting married. She has a job now, so she doesn’t need anybody except us.
People keep saying that she should get married because she needs a man in her life.
I don’t know. But, they say she will have a hard time without a husband.
She doesn’t mind.
She said that she can deal with anything people throw at her. She believes in herself. And, I have to believe in her, too. You know, for support. Anyway, how’s your family?
Wow. Really?
I never pictured your mom as a reporter. But, I never picture my mom as a reporter either, so...
My mom is a reporter, now.
Yeah, maybe they’ll work together. And, search for stories together. And, report crime together. That would be cool.
    (sigh)
    (awkward silence)
Yup, today’s the day.
It’s okay. It’s been two years now, if I’m not over it by now, I never will be.
Yeah, it seems like just yesterday, he was teaching me how to play soccer. (sighs)
I told you it’s not your fault. It’s not your fault he died.
I know, okay. It’s just that I don’t like talking about him.
Because he’s dead.
Because he’s not.
Because he was killed.
Because he’s was in the wrong place at the wrong time.
    (looking down)
Because the bag he was carrying looked suspicious and when they called him, he didn’t stop walking. Because he didn’t here them call his name. Because it was busy and the soldiers calling his name probably got mixed in the rest of the noises. Because it was late. Because he was a young teenage boy. Because he was a young Palestinian teenage boy. Because he wanted to get home to the rest of us. Because we were hungry and Mom had stay us and Sami was the only one who could get it. Because, we were young. Because Dad was working that night. Because, he went to the store across town to the best pick. Because he wanted the best for him and his family. Because the bag looked to be stuffed to the rim as the soldiers say. Because milk, bread and chick peas that were covered his blood could have been “carrying explosives” as the police put it.
Because it was my birthday. Because we were suppose to celebrate. Because it was suppose to be safe and fun and safe. Because nothing bad was should have happened.
(jumps to his feet, eyes moist with unshed tears) Because I know. Because I’m his brother. Because I still remember my father yelling and my mother crying and my confusion when I saw Sami, my big brother, my role model, my savior, my Sami laying on the living room, deathly still, bloody to bits, so pale I thought he was a ghost.
Because, Avi. Just because.
    (walks off)

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Act I, Scene 4

Character:
Imad, a teenager who sells newspaper in the cit of Cairo, Egypt.

Prologue: An Egyptian teenager sells newspaper though he doesn’t see a need to buy one.

IMAD
    (hands a paper away, smiling)
Thank you.
    
        (turns, facing a crowd)
Paper! Paper! Get your paper! Only three pounds! The best news! The newest news! The only news! Only three pounds! Get your paper!  
    (crowd surrounds him, asking for the paper)

    (the crowd slowly walks away, satisfied)
The news gets old quick. It’s the same thing everyday. Someone dies everyday. It’s a part of life - you’re born, you grow and you die. It’s simple. You can’t expect death. It’s a daily occurrence.

Something that I wonder why people even bother to read about.

“A suicidal bomber killed a man, and two children - one six, the other four. Hamas has taken responsibility for the bombing and the police begin to investigate. The U.N. says that it will not stand for such...” Or something of the like. The cover of the newspaper is always something depressing about how someone died. It’s obvious. If you already know that death, mayhem and destruction conclude what’s inside of those pages, why buy the paper in the first place?
Sure, I feel sorry for those individuals trapped in Gaza, but death happens. I know that they are stuck inside with the borders surrounding their country and I feel sorry for them. But, there is nothing I can do. I’ve excepted it and the people need to to Gaza need to as well.

But, what about us? The people of Egypt. Sure, the Palestinians have dealing with that issue for so long. But here we are, being portrayed as the bad guys? Because somehow, Israeli taking Gaza soil is my problem. Because apparently, those who are dying, there blood has written my name. And, there’s a way, just a way, that ties in all the world’s problems back to me.

The thing is, though, I never asked for any of this. Truth be told, I’d rather have the Palestinians have a way out. I’d rather not have their blood spilled for the cause of “all of” Egypt’s apparent stupidity. He doesn’t speak this government does not speak for me. Heck, this country doesn’t even speak for me anymore. The people don’t have a say. We’re stuck, too. We want change that will never come. Just like Palestinians, however, we’re seen as the bad guys. The people of Egypt are stuck in the in between. Our voice has no voice. So, why should theirs, the Palestinians, matter?

    (turns)
Paper! Paper! Come get your paper!

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Act I, Scene 5

Character:
Harrison, a activist in his later years.

Prologue: A middle-aged man is paces his office, in search of his glasses.

HARRISON
    (lifts a book)
Where did I put those blasted glasses?
When did Mitchell said?
    (rubs temple)
At least, no later than 10.
    (glances at clock, groans)
    (sits down)
I need to finish this and soon. Eliza expects home before then.
(looks at computer in front of him, squints)
What is this? Ancient Greek? And, these pictures? Just how many pixels is this?
    (sighs)
I work with amateurs.
(types, squints, and resumes typing)
I feel sorry for these people, the people of Gaza. They live with everything they need, but never can access their wants or desires. The want to get out of that hellish excuse for a country. For Pete’s sake, half the population is under the age of nineteen. It’s like this conflict is being waged with kids. Young, unlucky kids who are stuck inside those walls for some apparent reason that is bigger than the whole lot of us.
    (hunches)
Sure, those people have water and food and medicine, but what about the things that matter even more. How about a stable home, a safe environment, an ideal education? What about those things are so deadly that people should deprived of?
    (growls)
And, where are those damned glasses? I need them. I need to see to clearly. I need to see the shapes and figures, the symbols and the words. I need to see the poster before it begins to cover the lampposts and bulletins of the city. So, it informs and shows these people, the outsiders, those who don’t belong, what is really happening. That reminds them that the world isn’t perfect and that somehow, someway, if we band together in the justice and equality, then maybe, just maybe, my life, our world will be a brighter one for the years to come.
    (scratches his neck, feels something against his chest)
    (removes the object and smiles)
My glasses.

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Act I, Scene 6

Character:
James, a reporter who has not seen the affects of war.

Prologue: A man stares at himself in the mirror, his partner in the other room.

JAMES
Come on. Let’s go.
Josh, we haven’t have all day.
    (waves hands, frantically)
Shots are being fired as we speak and we, as reporters, must well, report this. We have to get down before anyone else does.
    (turns around)
We haven’t much time until word gets out.

Bloody hell, Josh.
    (sighs)
Just leave it, then. I have a smaller camera. It’s not as advanced, but it’ll do.
    (fixed cuffs)
Well, hurry on then.
    (exits the room)

[James and his partner, Josh drive through rubble on what used to be a road.]

There’s blood. So much blood. I’ve been doing this for years, and yet... It still gets me every time. I can’t- My God. That building was just standing there three seconds ago. And, it’s now been torn to pieces.

That was a federal building?

People are probably still inside there. Dead and wishing they were dead. I would. If I were them. Being stuck underneath the rubble, rasping for another breath of air. I couldn’t do it. I don’t have the strength nor the soul to be able to survive a catastrophe such as this.

There were children?

To think that it is located next to a school for children. What were they thinking? They are innocent, naive and have no right to be put into a warped condition such as this one. They count for more than of population and it’s as though this whole conflict is being shoved into the hands of mere children. They have no right. To be stuck. To be under.

The building is silver?

Then, why is it so red?

Those people are terrorists?

Then, why are kids dying?

This isn’t a war?

Then what is it?

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Act I, Scene 7

Character:
Haniah, a woman who speaks on the behalf of Palestinians.

Prologue: A young women sits alone at a coffee shop.

HANIAH

This war; it's stupid really.
    (stirs)
The fact that no one takes action against this conflict is disgusting, cruel and furthermore, inhumane. It's as if these people lives don't matter.
    (opens and pours cream)
Look I'm not saying we shouldn't, however we cannot ignore that fact that this is a lost cause. No matter how hard we try and despite how much most of us want it to end, it won't, Both the Israelis and the Palestinians are too consumed in removing each other that they are blinded from the right of way.
    (stirs; plays with spoon)
I'm am only here to give my thoughts as a women, reporter and civilian of the strip of Gaza. Whether my voice reaches your ears is up to you, but as long as I know I have had my voice heard... At least then I can sleep at night.
    (lets go of spoon, hand gestures)
Ma'am, I understand that, and forgive for sounding reeducate, but this war, this conflict, their lives will not change just because we want it to be. The U.N. is powerful, but this is issue has been going on for more years than we have been alive. You nor I can fully comprehend the depth of it and surely we never will. However, going in and making it better with our hands won't solve anything.
    (picks up spoon and continues to stir)
If anything it will make worse. How would you feel if a person, let's say, working at Starbucks decides to prance in here, telling us that everything we are doing is wrong, and that we need to be saved. I wouldn't accept that and neither would anyone else in this conflict.
    (pauses)
The Israelis, the Palestinians, the surrounding countries, even the outsiders know. We all know that in this conflict, there are the evil doers and there are the victims, just like always. But, the question is who are the heros, who will swoop in and save the day. It certainly isn't the U.N., the U.S. or any other super power that feels the need shape the world to fit their imagination. We are in over heads; this is far bigger than the both of us.
    (stirs)
The moral of the story of the story is that there is nothing that we can do. It needs to play out on its own, without any interference as to how to fix it. It doesn't to be fixed, only time. Just give it some time.
    (sips)

Reality, As Is

A selection dedicated to the ever-going Israeli-Palestinian Conflict that has plagued those nations for all too long. In a battle of territory, it somehow refrains from ever growing old; this is a daily issue. From people on the inside and out, these pieces are here to inform of the depth and reality that goes down behind these borders.


Act I, Scene 1

Character:
Lael, a Jewish female reporter who questions the essence of the problem.

Prologue: A woman with shoulder-length brown hair and confused eyes sits on love seat watching television, wondering where did it all go wrong.

LAEL
Colors, sounds, texture; none have reached my eyes because it doesn’t matter. It never mattered. The television in front of me couldn’t even keep my attention. What was the use? Sitting here, doing absolutely nothing. Waiting for the next day to come, to wake up, go to work, come home, make dinner, and fall asleep on this love seat only to wake the next day and repeat the process. But, what was the use? It all amounts to nothing in the end. It’s not like I’m helping anyone but myself. I’m being selfish without having the intention to be.

I’m lucky. I’m on the other side of the border. The safer side, the richer side, the better side, the safer side. I’m married, I have kids, I have a job, I have a house - what more could any sane person ask for? But, people on the other side don’t have that. The luxury of sitting with nothing on their plate; without a care in the world. They don’t have that option. Instead, they wake up every morning and leave home - not knowing if the place they headed to is still there or their family will be there when they get back.

Palestinians are only miles from this house. What makes me better than them? Are their lives any less valuable than mine? I don’t understand. How can anyone, anyone allow others to live like that? To everyone else in the world, it doesn’t matter. The strikings, the destruction; we need change. I want it to change. People are blind, ignorant and just don’t care - it doesn’t affect them. Whether a child lives or dies in Gaza, won’t make a difference. Her death will just only spark more controversy, more tension and more death to those who don’t mean any harm. That little girl will just be another death, another causality, another number to add to the total death count.

It’s stupid, this whole ordeal. Officials argue or “have peace talks,” and accuse each other of wrongly accusing each other and so on and so forth. Militant groups return to violence as a way that appears to make a statement towards the government or in the Name of God, which I fall to recognize. The only thing they succeed in doing is killing innocent bystanders and getting blood on their hands because somehow, in their minds that gets there point across. And, we can’t forget the border crossing that is practically sealed shut to anyone getting in or out. Honestly, I find it funny. No one notices that it’s lives there playing with. The officials, the government, the U.N., the suicide bombers, the smugglers, and even the reporters, like me.

As easily as I flip through these channels and switch between shows, it reminds me of how lives are being treated. That world seems to be giving up on those who are faultless, turning off on their lives as easily as I turn off the T.V. I’ve seen things, but maybe, I haven’t seen enough. To make the right decisions, to actually look at all the facts, to take to take the time to choose a side.

But what can I do? I’m just lone person in a endless battlefield.  Maybe, if I see enough blood, I won’t be as disturbed. Maybe, if I watched someone being killed, it won’t have as much as of an affect. And, maybe if leave my job, I’ll be free. But, not blind. I’m trying to tighten my grip on reality, but I can’t let go of what is in front of me here. I have to keep reporting. I can’t stop now. I’m not going to be just another reporter. Maybe, I’ll save a life. Or, maybe, I’ll be just another death, but I’m okay with that. Because at least then, I’ll make a difference. Because I’m not gonna tune them out - the tears, the screams, the blood. To me, life is worth more and I’m not going to turn off the T.V.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Act I, Scene 2

Character:
Noor, a child who does not understand the depth of the problem.

Prologue: A young child sits in her room - lights off, silence eerie. She plays a trinket.

NOOR
    (tracing the object)
Hey. I’m doing great. Mommy and Irfan are good, too. It’s kind of nice here. The shooting and the shells don’t come as often, which means everything must be getting better. I hope no more people will die because of them. I don’t want them to lose their biggest brother like I did.

I’m helping around the house now. Mom is kind of busy with work, so I have be a big girl and take charge and do what big girls do. Me and Irfan clean and dust and sweep and wash and dry and do all those things Mommy does. I feel like I’m helping a lot, so that way when she comes home, she won’t have much to do.

We go to school again now, me and Irfan. A different school. It’s a little farther because Mommy said we can’t go there anymore. I think it’s because it blew up but Irfan just shushed me. He said it didn’t matter, that it was ‘in the past,’ whatever that means. But, it’s nicer. I know some of the kids from our old school but a lot of them are new and I’ve never seen them before. But, I have some new friends now and that’s nice. I like them; they make me smile and I make them smile. There was this one girl. Her name was Raina. She was sitting alone. But, I went up to her and said hi. We became friends. Yesterday, she wasn’t there. The teacher said she would not be coming anymore. I asked why, but she didn’t say anything.

Irfan is changing now. He doesn’t talk to me as much but he’s just always there. He always in the room I’m in and if he’s somewhere else, he gets all sneaky-like and watches when he thinks I’m not watching, but I can see him because I’m sneaky-like, too. But, he’s always, always watching. It makes me feel like I have to be watched - that I can’t be trusted. me. He’s acting like he has to watch me, instead of liking to watch me, like he used to. I think he thinks that watching me is a chore and I don’t want to be chore. I want to be Irfan’s little sister, just that, only that.

(smiles) You know something, Sami. I still didn’t give it to Irfan. I wanted to, the day you died, but I couldn’t. I wanted it, I wanted something - anything - to remember you by. He had your clothes, your chores, the rest of your room, your everything but all I had was memories. Nothing real, memorable. I needed it. I needed to remember you. But, I am losing you. (voice breaks) Your voice, your face. I can’t remember you. This (clutches the object) is all have and I’m not going to give it. I won’t. I just won’t.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Act I, Scene 3

Character:
Irfan, a twelve year old who is a both an older and younger sibling.

Prologue: Two young boys sit in an alleyway, side by side. The shadow rests upon them, making their figures indescribable. They are both silent, waiting for the other to start. In the distance, the bustling of a market can be heard.

IRFAN
Yup.
Mom’s good.
Rana’s fine.
School’s...
    (pauses)
School. You?
Doing all of your homework?
That’s good.
So, Avi... It’s been a while, hasn’t it?
What happened? You just kinda disappeared for a few weeks there.
Your dad? Again?
I know. Your house isn’t that far from here and it’s not like we  o anything but sit here and talk... Except for that one time.
    (laughs)
What? You don’t remember?
But it was so funny.
How did you even manage to shoot the soccer ball that high? The third floor, how was that possible. Honestly, the managers of that building should have praised you instead of chasing us down.
Yeah, because I didn’t do it.
Fours years. But, your face when your dad stopped us from running all of town. (pauses) Priceless.
    (grins and laughs. the boy sheds a fake tear, then pauses)
Life is life. Me and Noor are going back to school, so that doesn’t take up most of the time, then helping around the house will.
Oh, yeah. You don’t know. Mom got a job.
I know. I never thought she get one too, but she landed the job a few weeks ago. So, money isn’t that big of an issue now. It’s just that she’s not around as much, so I have to watch Noor. But, I don’t mind because she’s happy. And, she hasn’t been this happy since dad died. And, since she happy, I’m happy.
Yeah. But, some people don’t like her having a job.
Like the neighbors. The women used come around the house and talk about her. They say she needs to get married. That “a woman like her shouldn’t be trying to get a job.” That “she could get that she could get married easily.” But, Mom said she isn’t interested in getting married. She has a job now, so she doesn’t need anybody except us.
People keep saying that she should get married because she needs a man in her life.
I don’t know. But, they say she will have a hard time without a husband.
She doesn’t mind.
She said that she can deal with anything people throw at her. She believes in herself. And, I have to believe in her, too. You know, for support. Anyway, how’s your family?
Wow. Really?
I never pictured your mom as a reporter. But, I never picture my mom as a reporter either, so...
My mom is a reporter, now.
Yeah, maybe they’ll work together. And, search for stories together. And, report crime together. That would be cool.
    (sigh)
    (awkward silence)
Yup, today’s the day.
It’s okay. It’s been two years now, if I’m not over it by now, I never will be.
Yeah, it seems like just yesterday, he was teaching me how to play soccer. (sighs)
I told you it’s not your fault. It’s not your fault he died.
I know, okay. It’s just that I don’t like talking about him.
Because he’s dead.
Because he’s not.
Because he was killed.
Because he’s was in the wrong place at the wrong time.
    (looking down)
Because the bag he was carrying looked suspicious and when they called him, he didn’t stop walking. Because he didn’t here them call his name. Because it was busy and the soldiers calling his name probably got mixed in the rest of the noises. Because it was late. Because he was a young teenage boy. Because he was a young Palestinian teenage boy. Because he wanted to get home to the rest of us. Because we were hungry and Mom had stay us and Sami was the only one who could get it. Because, we were young. Because Dad was working that night. Because, he went to the store across town to the best pick. Because he wanted the best for him and his family. Because the bag looked to be stuffed to the rim as the soldiers say. Because milk, bread and chick peas that were covered his blood could have been “carrying explosives” as the police put it.
Because it was my birthday. Because we were suppose to celebrate. Because it was suppose to be safe and fun and safe. Because nothing bad was should have happened.
(jumps to his feet, eyes moist with unshed tears) Because I know. Because I’m his brother. Because I still remember my father yelling and my mother crying and my confusion when I saw Sami, my big brother, my role model, my savior, my Sami laying on the living room, deathly still, bloody to bits, so pale I thought he was a ghost.
Because, Avi. Just because.
    (walks off)

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Act I, Scene 4

Character:
Imad, a teenager who sells newspaper in the cit of Cairo, Egypt.

Prologue: An Egyptian teenager sells newspaper though he doesn’t see a need to buy one.

IMAD
    (hands a paper away, smiling)
Thank you.
    
        (turns, facing a crowd)
Paper! Paper! Get your paper! Only three pounds! The best news! The newest news! The only news! Only three pounds! Get your paper!  
    (crowd surrounds him, asking for the paper)

    (the crowd slowly walks away, satisfied)
The news gets old quick. It’s the same thing everyday. Someone dies everyday. It’s a part of life - you’re born, you grow and you die. It’s simple. You can’t expect death. It’s a daily occurrence.

Something that I wonder why people even bother to read about.

“A suicidal bomber killed a man, and two children - one six, the other four. Hamas has taken responsibility for the bombing and the police begin to investigate. The U.N. says that it will not stand for such...” Or something of the like. The cover of the newspaper is always something depressing about how someone died. It’s obvious. If you already know that death, mayhem and destruction conclude what’s inside of those pages, why buy the paper in the first place?
Sure, I feel sorry for those individuals trapped in Gaza, but death happens. I know that they are stuck inside with the borders surrounding their country and I feel sorry for them. But, there is nothing I can do. I’ve excepted it and the people need to to Gaza need to as well.

But, what about us? The people of Egypt. Sure, the Palestinians have dealing with that issue for so long. But here we are, being portrayed as the bad guys? Because somehow, Israeli taking Gaza soil is my problem. Because apparently, those who are dying, there blood has written my name. And, there’s a way, just a way, that ties in all the world’s problems back to me.

The thing is, though, I never asked for any of this. Truth be told, I’d rather have the Palestinians have a way out. I’d rather not have their blood spilled for the cause of “all of” Egypt’s apparent stupidity. He doesn’t speak this government does not speak for me. Heck, this country doesn’t even speak for me anymore. The people don’t have a say. We’re stuck, too. We want change that will never come. Just like Palestinians, however, we’re seen as the bad guys. The people of Egypt are stuck in the in between. Our voice has no voice. So, why should theirs, the Palestinians, matter?

    (turns)
Paper! Paper! Come get your paper!

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Act I, Scene 5

Character:
Harrison, a activist in his later years.

Prologue: A middle-aged man is paces his office, in search of his glasses.

HARRISON
    (lifts a book)
Where did I put those blasted glasses?
When did Mitchell said?
    (rubs temple)
At least, no later than 10.
    (glances at clock, groans)
    (sits down)
I need to finish this and soon. Eliza expects home before then.
(looks at computer in front of him, squints)
What is this? Ancient Greek? And, these pictures? Just how many pixels is this?
    (sighs)
I work with amateurs.
(types, squints, and resumes typing)
I feel sorry for these people, the people of Gaza. They live with everything they need, but never can access their wants or desires. The want to get out of that hellish excuse for a country. For Pete’s sake, half the population is under the age of nineteen. It’s like this conflict is being waged with kids. Young, unlucky kids who are stuck inside those walls for some apparent reason that is bigger than the whole lot of us.
    (hunches)
Sure, those people have water and food and medicine, but what about the things that matter even more. How about a stable home, a safe environment, an ideal education? What about those things are so deadly that people should deprived of?
    (growls)
And, where are those damned glasses? I need them. I need to see to clearly. I need to see the shapes and figures, the symbols and the words. I need to see the poster before it begins to cover the lampposts and bulletins of the city. So, it informs and shows these people, the outsiders, those who don’t belong, what is really happening. That reminds them that the world isn’t perfect and that somehow, someway, if we band together in the justice and equality, then maybe, just maybe, my life, our world will be a brighter one for the years to come.
    (scratches his neck, feels something against his chest)
    (removes the object and smiles)
My glasses.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Act I, Scene 6

Character:
James, a reporter who has not seen the affects of war.

Prologue: A man stares at himself in the mirror, his partner in the other room.

JAMES
Come on. Let’s go.
Josh, we haven’t have all day.
    (waves hands, frantically)
Shots are being fired as we speak and we, as reporters, must well, report this. We have to get down before anyone else does.
    (turns around)
We haven’t much time until word gets out.

Bloody hell, Josh.
    (sighs)
Just leave it, then. I have a smaller camera. It’s not as advanced, but it’ll do.
    (fixed cuffs)
Well, hurry on then.
    (exits the room)

[James and his partner, Josh drive through rubble on what used to be a road.]

There’s blood. So much blood. I’ve been doing this for years, and yet... It still gets me every time. I can’t- My God. That building was just standing there three seconds ago. And, it’s now been torn to pieces.

That was a federal building?

People are probably still inside there. Dead and wishing they were dead. I would. If I were them. Being stuck underneath the rubble, rasping for another breath of air. I couldn’t do it. I don’t have the strength nor the soul to be able to survive a catastrophe such as this.

There were children?

To think that it is located next to a school for children. What were they thinking? They are innocent, naive and have no right to be put into a warped condition such as this one. They count for more than of population and it’s as though this whole conflict is being shoved into the hands of mere children. They have no right. To be stuck. To be under.

The building is silver?

Then, why is it so red?

Those people are terrorists?

Then, why are kids dying?

This isn’t a war?

Then what is it?

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Act I, Scene 7

Character:
Haniah, a woman who speaks on the behalf of Palestinians.

Prologue: A young women sits alone at a coffee shop.

HANIAH

This war; it's stupid really.
    (stirs)
The fact that no one takes action against this conflict is disgusting, cruel and furthermore, inhumane. It's as if these people lives don't matter.
    (opens and pours cream)
Look I'm not saying we shouldn't, however we cannot ignore that fact that this is a lost cause. No matter how hard we try and despite how much most of us want it to end, it won't, Both the Israelis and the Palestinians are too consumed in removing each other that they are blinded from the right of way.
    (stirs; plays with spoon)
I'm am only here to give my thoughts as a women, reporter and civilian of the strip of Gaza. Whether my voice reaches your ears is up to you, but as long as I know I have had my voice heard... At least then I can sleep at night.
    (lets go of spoon, hand gestures)
Ma'am, I understand that, and forgive for sounding reeducate, but this war, this conflict, their lives will not change just because we want it to be. The U.N. is powerful, but this is issue has been going on for more years than we have been alive. You nor I can fully comprehend the depth of it and surely we never will. However, going in and making it better with our hands won't solve anything.
    (picks up spoon and continues to stir)
If anything it will make worse. How would you feel if a person, let's say, working at Starbucks decides to prance in here, telling us that everything we are doing is wrong, and that we need to be saved. I wouldn't accept that and neither would anyone else in this conflict.
    (pauses)
The Israelis, the Palestinians, the surrounding countries, even the outsiders know. We all know that in this conflict, there are the evil doers and there are the victims, just like always. But, the question is who are the heros, who will swoop in and save the day. It certainly isn't the U.N., the U.S. or any other super power that feels the need shape the world to fit their imagination. We are in over heads; this is far bigger than the both of us.
    (stirs)
The moral of the story of the story is that there is nothing that we can do. It needs to play out on its own, without any interference as to how to fix it. It doesn't to be fixed, only time. Just give it some time.
    (sips)

So I am staying in the honors dorm at Bennett and I'm so excited. My trip was amazing and I'm ready to come home. My train leaves a 4:00 in the morning so I'm dreading it. I really liked the campus and the people.

I think this pictures tells its story on it's own. Sorry if it's unclear, but basically, the trash men decided to ride in the back of the truck today.

Flats aren't supposed to hurt your feet. I feel mislead. 

Mom: ​"Is that what you're wearing?"

Me: "Yeah, why?"

Mom: "I don't know, just button your shirt up."

Me: "No. I don't want to."

Mom: "But it looks bad."

Me: "Good! Then that means I like the way I look." 

The manager at Yogurino remembered me when I came in to check on my application today.  I think I'm getting that job!

For the average 12 yo (boy or girl, you pick) in your country that you focused on last week... what is the average day like.

Make a visualization of the day.. you can timeline it with pix, do something more creative.

But by the end of class on Tuesday you should have a representation of that day... with regard to education and health at a minimum... feel free to include more factors and indicators. Provide at least 5 CITED sources to your creation.

When you are done, link to it on SLA.org blogger - SLATE. Double check that your link works. In addition to the link, reflect on... how does this life compare that that of yours when you were 12? What was most surprising about your findings? What parts were expected? What do you think that 12yo's life will be like when they are 40? Describe it... what will have changed, what will have stayed the same?

​Cast of characters:

 

Robert Mugabe: Greedy President of Zimbabwe.

 

Gono:  Head of Zimbabwe’s main bank that helps Mugabe steal money.

 

Maid: Works at Mugabe’s place just for work but.

 

Archbishop of Canterbury: talks about Zimbabwe and how it is going under.

 

 

 

Act 1: Scene 1

 

The reason Why Zimbabwe is going under nowadays is because Mugabe steals all this money while he pays people like me very little money. That greedy little bastard. I’m thankful his wife is cheating is cheating on him. Haha. I find it kind of funny that his (makes air quotes) “friend” slept with his wife. (Points finger at interviewer) Just think what it would have been like if he did not take all that money (puts finger down). Zimbabwe would have been the best vacation getaway instead of this shithole of a plaace. Excuse my language its just he makes me extremely mad. (Acts Cautious) He won’t see this will he?

 

Act 1: Scene 2

 

(Trying to avoid eye contact by picking up random things in the living room)

I just wanted to let you know i am really happy to be your friend and business partner. It isn't all for just the money but you are a really good listener. I came here to discuss the future of our relationship. We have been cheating Zimbabwe out of millions for a long time and I feel that I have grown really close to you over the years. I think that any misunderstandings that we might have in the future should be disregarded. I mean you being the president and me being the head power of the bank we can take over this country



Act 1: Scene 3

 

(Pacing across the floor slowly throughout the whole scene) do you believe this? I had a life set. Why did he have to find out? We were going to live in my house, rule this country and keep getting money. (Being cocky) I mean who wouldn’t want to live in my house 47 bedrooms, a pool, a gym, and a mini movie theater.  NO but seriously I need to do something and quickly, I mean he is going to kill me. (Talking to the voices in his head really fast) How do I know he is going to kill me? For the fact that his bodyguard was suspiciously poisoned for just knowing about this, that two other people she had an affair with were in trouble, one died in a mysterious car accident and the other had to flee the country. Wait a minute I have an idea what if I can go and try to win the citizens over at the protest that they are having in a couple of days. If I win them over I can become leader and not get killed by Mugabe. Ha its genius. (Exits stage)






Act 1: Scene 4

Citizens of Zimbabwe. Over the years you have come to think of me as a liar, a cheater and a robber. I may be that entire list but I have come here today to seek your forgiveness. I know most of you people are thinking, “Why would I forgive this man” well let me give you some reasons. Sure I am scared for my life. But the main reason is that I am willing to make a very large donation to Zimbabwe.  I promise that what I did will never happen again. Many are probably wondering why I am even trying to convince all of you to come to my side, well let me say this would you rather have a man who has basically ruined your lives as president or someone who was a mere victim of that person. The next thing I… Wait… what… (background voice) “sir we need you to come with us” … What are you doing to these people… Taking them to jail. Why?

 

Act 1: Scene 5

Robert Mugabe

 

(In his room talking to himself reminding him of all the power he has)

(Starts singing) Money, Money, Money. I love money (stops singing). With all of this money I have (picks up a stack of money and counts it)  I can basically buy this country even though I already controlled it for 30 years. The best thing is that I can manipulate anyone I want by just simply changing the way I am around them or simply including violence. Though I am sad that my wife cheated on me. But I don’t care that much because I(singing) I I I get money, money I get (pauses) ( says it as if ending) and I will just kill him.

Act 1: Scene 6

ABC: I think the humanitarian crisis in Zimbabwe is now at an appalling level. It's estimated that perhaps half the population is now under threat of starvation; and the deaths from cholera have been climbing in just the last couple of weeks from 3,000 towards 4,000. Everyone knows about the rate of inflation, but I think the main thing is the sheer level at which people are at risk of starvation. I mean if

 

Act 1: Scene 7

 (Wife walks into the room) Why would you cheat on me... Because im old... But why with one of my close friends... Why do I care because Gono is the only person that I thought I could really trust and not only are we good friends he is the owner of the bank that got me and you a lot of money and having friends that are in power too can help me out a lot, but you screwed everything up. Now I have basically no friends. Everybody hates me and I don't even have a faithful wife. How would you feel if I had a Heart attack. (Wife leaves)

 

"In the Valley" is about a young Sergeant named Johnathon Calloway. Sgt. Calloway has seen war before but nothing that can prepare him for the Korengal Valley in Afghanistan, one the deadliest places on earth (told by CNN). Sgt. Calloway changes from being an anxious soldier, to a gritty leader.

"In the Valley is also about a teenage Afghan boy named Mohammed. Mohammed struggles to stay neutral between the US and the Taliban. His friends join the Taliban and try to recruit him, yet Mohammed manege's to keep his points of view.

Characters
Sgt. Calloway- A well developed military soldier who has seen action in Iraq but not in Afghanistan.

Mohammed- a sixteen year old Afghan boy who is caught living in the Korengal valley.

Returning soldiers/Helicopter passengers- Returning to the Korengal valley for there second and third tours of duty.

Private Jackson- a new recruit who has never been in battle yet.

Macko- Hum-v Driver




Act 1 Scene 1

(Mohammed sits in a small tiled floor room with a large window to the left.)


Mohammed
To many of us are being taken. Promises of wealth and a magnificent after life. They took Deqhan today. Lured in by there false tellings. There numbers are growing, now it only may be a few thousand of the Taliban scattered through the hills, but there still unorganized and

(pauses as noise of helicopter flies over his house.)

They are unorganized and have no training. When was the last time a faction in history succeeded in overthrowing a country

(Pauses again to the sound of Humvees getting closer, Mohammad gets up and looks out side of the window a convoy of 5 hummers drives down the street, when the noise stops, mohammed still looking out the window sees five us troops kick down a door and raid a house, Mohammed backs from the window and continues writing.)

I have not been to school in over 4 months now, I am now almost to scared to leave the house, every time I’m approached sometime by Quadaff, sometimes by Gamal, but now by Deqhan. My only friend swept up by the Taliban. I warned him pushing him to stay with me, but he ran off with the largest group of goons on the earth. Who is next me, no, for to long have I watched

(Mohammed flips back a couple pages in his journal reading something, he then returns and begins writing again.)

Four and a half weeks ago I wrote that the Taliban teaching ten year olds in the school. Ten year olds being brain washed.



Act 1 Scene 2

(Sgt. Calloway is strapped in to a chair with 4 other men in the cargo bay of a chinook helicopter.)


So yall been here before?

(A blank stare came from the rest of the soldiers.)

Wer supposed to see some kick ass fighting up here. Can’t wait to see some action im pumped in Iraq I got me at least twenty kills, Dumb ass Taliban.

(Still nobody said anything, Awkward pause)

I heard this place is intense, surprised we have not been shoo-

(The helicopter dramatically pitches to the left)

What the f*** was that? An RPG?!?!?!?!?

(Two more dramatic movements, over the radio from the cockpit he hears airstrike commands, as the chinook pulls away from the cliff a massive bright explosion rips through the mountain.)

Yea thats what im talkin about kicken some ass

(The red light on the back of the Chinook lights the soldiers get ready, Calloway peers out the window)

Thats it what the hell is that its a bunch of sand bags?

(The crew turn to Calloway and stare at him)

What do you mean how dare I say that? The previous soldiers have been here for a year and this is what they've built”

(The back latch of the helicopter opens
Gun fire begins to ricochet on the out side of the Chinook)



Act 1 Scene 3
(Sergeant  Calloway speaks in to a camera in a video diary in the Bunker, the noise of Artillery is being launched is in the background.)
 
First impressions, not what I hoped. Seeing 7 dead and 5 wounded carried to the Chinook. Looking at this piece of shit its not much. Just a couple dozen sand bags, a small building and a couple huts. Training.....What training, Nothing can prepare you for this. First day 1 wounded, saw Sergeant  Ellsworth shot right in front of me. But what is this.... war.......no. I don’t know what this is. No amount of strength can prepare you for what I saw. I’ve been kneeling behind a sand bag for the past 15 hours. Shooting at what I can’t see.....but they can see me. I’ve been here not even for a day and i’m pissen my self. In the briefing commanders said we would be alone, stranded, no support.......we are the support defending the valley for what purpose, its a fucking desert. They watch us. The Taliban, stubborn as they are hate us, defending there land which we are invading, A land which is worthless to what we are fighting for. We should just leave. There is no reason we are here.
(The sound of gunfire and mortars erupt, Sgt. Calloway gets his gun and leaves the building.)




Act 1 Scene 4

Mohammed
Made it through another night. Ever since the Americans started to push down the hill the fighting has seemed to get tougher. Every day we are constantly being attacked. But I see the point, our village is full of Taliban, Dozens of them, if I did not live here with my family and friend, I would wish that that village gets flattened, well it basically already is.

(Mohammed glances out of the window)

I cower under my bed on an hourly basis, its the only place where I feel safe, kind of stupid huh, I am neutral in this war. Last night Deqhan came by with a bag, He shoved me aside and hid it in our closet, he told me not to look, and if I told anybody about it I would become the Taliban’s enemy. I had to see what was in the bag, but I’m to afraid, I can’t look,
(Mohammed throws down his pencil, and rubs his fists in his eyes as if he is crying. Mohammed gets up and walks over to the closet and picks up the bag, it was heavy and Mohammed struggled to lift it back to his table, he peered inside)

Weapons, its full of weapons, Im hiding the Taliban’s war machine. I am on of them.



Act 1 Scene 5

Have not done this in a while, No time. Constantly we are all doing work, either building, digging or shootin, no time for anything else. The only thing that changed was the wounded, 7, 3 dead. 3 dead!
(Rubs his eyes and face)

All stronger then me. Who’s to say I’m not next. Strength means shit out here. No amount of explosives or guns can stop these people, these, these animals. The Korengal Valley, the gates of death. Only Misery and pain is visible for miles around us, Tomorrow's we draw straws. Who goes down the hill for recon. I did not turn out so good for the last group, so I heard. Two died the driver wounded, they had to he evaced, with a heli, they said if we get picked we have to drive down the hill side and look for suspicious activity, Suspicious activity my ass, every body looks the same, I can’t tell who is the enemy and and who is neutral until its to late. But they want that, they like to be sneaky bastards. Hope I come back to make another one of these. Slams lid of computer closed.









Act 1 Scene 6

Sgt. Calloway
Of course I would get picked to do this.
(slams the door of the hum-v)

90% chance we get an IED shoved up our ass.I am so done with this shit. We are dead. WOW WOW Stop! play this CD it sets the mood.

(Gimme shelter by the rolling stones begins to play.)

So briefing said we should drive as far as we can, what does that mean. Well I know what it means, just does that mean we are guaranteed to get attacked, Shit!

(The hum-v drive for about an ten minuets through the valley when the driver stops.)

Why did u stop?
Bad feeling, psh I don’t give a shit, we are sitting ducks out here. Get a move on it Macko.

(The Hum-v drives slowly, gradually picking sup speed.)

Faster dude I don’t want to get Ambushed.

(A small IED explodes 30 yards in front of the hum-v damaging the vehicle.)

Ambush! Take Cover!

(They exit the vehicle)

Fire at will, Fire at will!  Everybody just sit put we will get out of this. Jackson keep your head down! Jackson!

 (Jackson is shot in the helmet the bullet penetrates his head killing him, Calloway talks on his radio)
 Man down we have a man down requesting immediate EVAC we have man down.

 (Gets off of radio)
 Command says for an evac we need to secure the area. I have an idea
(Gets back on the radio)

Command, recon 1 we request an immediate air-strike. Ok latitude 34.5550 east
longitude 71.0519 north, Elevation 2997.  Danger close. Repeat danger close.

(Puts down radio)
Every body heads down incoming.
(The sound of a jet breaking the sound barrier flies over head screeching as a sonic boom rips through the air, a 2000 pound explosive hits a bunker position.)

Damn!!!!!!! That’s how we do it. Whats Jackson’s condition, Dead,good soldier should have kept his head down.

(picks ups radio)
 
Area secure, what is the ETA on that heli......Rodger that.

(Puts radio down)

We are out of here in ten.




Act 1 Scene 7

Sgt. Calloway
It's my fault, all my fault. Yesterdays recon down the hill went terrible. It was the same shit that all of the other recons deal with. The guilt is just to much. Being in command when a soldier dies, just can't take it.

(Takes off hat and places it in lap dramatically)

I see these new kids commen in every week. There not ready for this shit. Private Johnson was not ready that's why he died. These new recruits there just to vulnerable. The don't watch there backs good enough. The don't no what to expect out here. There not trained enough It all my fault Johnson died I should have never have to him to come with us.

(Calloway stands up from the seat and leans on the wall with his hands and head)

Not to say that I just wasted 50 thousand dollars worth of explosives on the guys that killed him. God damn. This war is just a waste of money I mean 50 thousand dollars on a handful of guys. Johnson was 21, so young. And just to think  I have to do this shit again in three days.





Act 1 Scene 8

Mohammed
The Americans keep pushing down through the valley. They know there are Taliban in my town and they will not leave until they are all dead. Over the past week more and more troops flood the city. Every day, two or three times a day.

(Sighs)

This is never going to end. Every time group of hum-v’s come down the hill the end up retreating. The Taliban have an endless supply of troops and weapons. Yet so do the americans, they come down the valley at random times and raid the Taliban’s shacks. Three days ago I was walking to get milk. When I heard a hum-v. I tried to run but they were raiding the house next door. I was caught in the cross fire as I tried to hide. There was sol..sol...soldier

(Begins to whimper)

right next to me, shooting. I was caught in combat. I looked up to the americans, and to see him get shot,

(Begins to cry)

Shot in the throat, and to struggle on the ground, The medic cam over but there was no hope. There is no hope. I can just remember name on his bloody uniform.

(Tries to pronounce the name)

Sa sar sergeant ca ca ca Calloway Sgt. Calloway.
The poor soldier who was shot in the neck, on the 11th of january 2011, for we should all respect him.




This is Act 1 Scene 3 presented by David Palidora

​                              Teenage Years Of An Adult

 

 

 

Characters:

Alma- pregnant girl in Africa

Nyaki- Alma’s friend

Sonya- the mother of a pregnant teen

Savannah- Sonya’s sister

Marge- Social Worker

Tasha- the girl the social worker is talking to; uneducated teen

Lisa- former single teenage pregnant mother

Dominique- soon to be teenage father

Chris- Dominique’s closest friend

 

           

                                                Act 1, Scene 1

                                                         ALMA

“That’s it Nyaki I’m leaving and getting away from this place. Everyone has looked down on me. I didn’t want any of this or asked for any of it. I just can’t take it anymore.”

                        (Looks for things to put in a suitcase.)

 

                                                         SONYA

“WHAT THE HELL DO YOU MEAN NOT TO SNAP!!!! YOU MUST HAVE LOST YOUR MIND IF YOU THINK I’M NOT GOING TO SNAP!

                                       (Sits down at the table with Savannah and tries to hold her composure)

 

 ¡Aye Dois Mio! Ella es un bebe tambien. How is she supposed to take care of another baby? Savannah you don’t understand she shouldn’t have to go through this. I had to and I know how hard it is with the help of family and friends. Hermana she has no one. I can’t raise another kid. I barely have money to keep our own family going.”

 

                                                      DOMINQUE

            (Has his hands on his head and tries to let reality sit in.)

“Oh man. Chris I don’t know what to do I cant believe she ‘bout to have my kid. I don’t even know if she telling the truth or not. Bro Imma make her take a test right in front of me. Wait. I can’t do that, that would be to disrespectful and I know better than that. Chris I really don’t know what to do. What if it ain’t even mines?”

            (Sits on the table and looks at the floor)

                                                         

            CHRIS

“Brov that has to be your kid. She was a virgin when yall got together. So stop playing you just scared and don’t know what to do.”

                                    (Puts his hand on his friend)

 

 

                                                MARGE

 

                                                           (At the desk typing and listening to Tasha talk)

“I’m sorry about all papers just been a busy week. Well Tasha I understand that you want to send your baby to America, lets just talk a little bit. So you want to send your first baby to be with a family in America? “ Guess you heard about all the good things in America.

                                                (Gives a little chuckle)

 

                       

                                                TASHA

                                                    (Takes a deep breathe and begins to talk)

“Well I like for my baby to have a good life. I want my baby to be in good hands and safe the rest of their life. I want them to be safe.”

 

 

 

                                               

                                                 LISA

                        (Stands in front of the crowd and waits the audience becomes a little quieter. Looks around and starts to talk.)

 

“Hello ladies how is everybody doing tonight? I’m glad everyone is doing fine but their isn’t any point in holding off the conversation. I’m here to tell how I went from getting an abortion just to end up pregnant once again. Yea I know I should have been a little smarter, but hey I was in high school and met that guy.”

            (Puts her hands and gives quotes while saying that guy)

“Yea lets just say from there I went on a rollercoaster.  I was about to get kicked out of school because pregnancy isn’t tolerated. The thing that makes it even worst is that I was only a freshman.

 

                                    (End of Scene 1, Act 1)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                      Act 2, Scene 2

 

                                                            ALMA

                        (Sitting next to Nyaki talking.)

 

“Nyaki he raped me. I tried to fight him off but he said if I struggled he would kill me. I tried to tell my mother but she just didn’t believe me. I went to the witch doctor and he told me I got aids from him. “

            (Puts her head down and starts to cry in Nyaki’s arm.)

 

                                                       SONYA

                        (Wipes away her tears and fixes herself a little bit before talking.)

“Savannah, I’m really scared of what’s going to happen next. All I can think about is bad things. I don’t know this guy or anything he is about. What should I do hermana, estoy muy miedo.”

 

                                                   SAVANNAH

                         (Grabs her sister and holds her tight for comfort. She talks to her sister in her native language)

“Sonya calmate por favor. Ella es un adolescente. She’s going to be fine remember who raised her and taught her how to succeed in life even with a problem as big as this. If you can deal with it and taught her how to be strong I’m sure she can. I’m here for you mi amor. It’s going to be fine.”

                        (Whispers it’s going to be fine)

 

 

                                                DOMINQUE

                        (Gives his friend a handshake and starts to thank him for being there for him)

“Yo man you a good friend. You helped me when I need u the most.

            (Gives his friend a handshake and hug)

                       

                                                   Chris

“No problem man.”

            (Returns the hug and shake)

 

                                               MARGE

                        (Starts typing on the computer and than stops and faces Tasha. Pulls out a stack of papers.)

“Well I’m going to need you to feel these papers out.

                        (Phone starts ringing)

“Hey. Yea I can talk now. You have to be kidding me. She didn’t have a miscarriage. Well what am I suppose to tell the adoptive parents? Okay so please tell me what happened.”

(Takes a sip of her coffee as she listens to the story. She goes blank)

“She got into a fight on purpose?! Are you freaking kidding me?! So how did she mange to lose her baby?”

 (Almost chokes on her coffee when she hears the truth.)

 “The girl stabbed her in the stomach? Oh my God. What did the police say? How did she get the hospital? When was the baby pronounced dead? Okay so the girl is under custody? That’s good. Now I want to know what the doctor said. Please telling me your just trying to play with me and that really didn’t happen. She was really taking drugs and drinking. Wow I can’t believe this little ignorant girl. Well when I finish up with my client right know I’ll contact the adoptive parents and have them come in for a talk. Make sure your here.”

 (Hangs up the phone and rubs her face)

 

 

                                    TASHA

“Wow sounds like your going to have a busy day. Hope I do the right thing with my baby.

                        (Rubs her stomach)

 

                                    LISA

I went through my sophomore and junior year retaining abstinence. I had to get the abortion in order to stay in school. Bye the beginning of senior I was pregnant and decided to keep this baby. I didn’t know what to do the father of the baby was gone but had to pay child support and from the time the baby was born I had struggled. The one thing that kept me happy was the smile on my baby girl’s face. I couldn’t take anymore so I moved to the USA and had some of my friends from here help me raise Ami.  I can’t say it was easy but ladies listen to me when I tell this is going to be the hardest thing in your life but its going to be one of the best things you’ll ever have to do and accomplish.

                        (The crowd begins to clap)

 

                        End of Act 2, Scene 2

 

                       

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                           ACT 3, SCENE 3

 

                                    ALMA

“Nyaki I love you but I need to go. Be safe and remember me. Pray for me and me baby.”

                        (Hugs Nyaki and exits the scene)

 

                                    SONYA

“Gracias por todo.  You have helped me get through this. Te amor mi hermana.”

                          (Gives her sister a hug and leaves off the stage)

 

                                 SAVANNAH

                        (Returns the hug and whispers)

“ I love you to mi amor.”

                        (Exits the stage)

     Understood but Ignored
                                            ACT I

                                                Scene 1

(A young Somalia boy around 17 or 18 speaking to a crew of pirates on the way to a cargo ship.(Sounds of a motor in the background. nothing on stage just black. voices can be heard.))

                             Abdi

You want to know why I am a pirate at such a young age. My father decided that I should fight for my waters against the illegal fishers and the illegal dumping. He is a pirate and wants me to prove myself to him. I figured it sounded fun. I am young but I am ready. The ship isn’t far now. We are going to be boarding soon........... I know all about the new guy routine and I wanted that. I wanted the challenge but since my dad is top boss he insisted that I should do all the boss work here..........Yeah.......... Okay. Throw the grapple up so we can position the ladder. I am no longer going to be oppressed and put down by the people forcing the injustice of polluted waters in our land....... No. I am not scared. I am ready to do what is necessary. Ok. You informed them that we are boarding?........ Okay. Climb up. (They climb up onto the ship and see the crew.)

                                                 Scene 2

(The men walk at the crewmembers and point their guns forward. Abdi Stammers often from fear or being in over his head.)

                              ABDI

Get down! Y-You you heard me get d-down! This ship is our property now!...... What? D-Don’t hit you? Then get down when I tell you to. Listen to us and you won’t get hurt. Where is the captain? Tell me!........ In the cabin? Okay guys go get him. Come on you guys are coming up to the cabin too. (Fear in his voice.) Get moving, but not too fast. One foot out of line and you die! Is this everyone on the ship?........ No one is downstairs?..... How many people?.......Five?.......Then why would you tell me that there were no people? I will pretend this did not happen. K-Keep moving! I don’t want you p-pulling anything stupid on me.

                                                 Scene 3

(They are inside of the main cabin and everyone from the ship is tied up.)

                             ABDI

What are we suppose to do now that we have them tied up?...... Okay, then where is the walkie to their people?......... Okay crew! Where is your radio?........ Grab that! Hand me it!. What should I say?........ Okay I’ll... be the one to talk. Hello?......We have your crew and ship. We want money........ No they will not be killed, if you give us the money.......... 3,000,000 dollars in cash.........American money for an American ship!........ Good. We will be waiting for your arrival. That will show you people to keep illegally dumping and fishing in Somalia waters. Either way we win. We get paid a lot of money or we kill you all and teach the others a lesson.

                                                   Act 2

                                                  Scene 1

(The crewmen hear the call of the pirates. They announce that they are boarding the ship.)

                           Nicholas

What is that? It looks like a boat. It’s a speedboat. Oh no! The-They ave guns. What are they doing? Why would they be doing this?.......... They are boarding? Oh god elp us. I told them we ad to stop fishing ere. The peepal in the United States will never understand that we can not just send people out to steal other people’s resources. I really don’t want to die because of stupid Americans. Okay. RIng the bells! Alarm the ship! Tell everyone that we are being boarded! Urry!........ Oh god. They are on the ship!

                                                   Scene 2

(Nicholas tried to run back but fell as the men walked towards him. He scrambles and shouts in fear.)

                             NICHOLAS

.......Okay! Okay! I will get down! Please don't it me!........ I just don't want to die! Okay guys get up. Do what he tells us!........I understand. Not a word.

                                                   Scene 3

                          Nicholas

Inner thought (spot light on Nicholas): I ave to make it out of this! I will just do as they say and follow their orders. As long as I cooperate they might spare my life. I have to just ope that the U.S. cares enough about us to pay the ransom, so we can be saved. Ee said that ee will kill us if they do not pay.

Outer dialogue: ........The radio? Um... It is over there behind that thing under the cloth.

Inner thought (Spot light on Nicholas again): Ok. They are getting the money. will they really pay 3,000,000 dollars in cash for a few men on a ship? I ave to be with my family. Will I ever even see them again? I know that the Somalia’s have it really ard, but so do I. That is why I took this job. Do they realize that other people ave it bad in the world too? I ope they don’t overreact and do something crazy. Whether I live or die this is my final trip out ere in the Somali waters.

                                                     Act 3

                                                  Scene 1

(It has been 10 hours since the pirates boarded the ship and the coast guard has arrived along with some of the military. The coast guard sent over some food and a phone to the pirates and crew to keep them comfortable.)

                              ABDI

I am calling the shots here........ No you listen to me Steven! I am not sending over any hostages until I get the money and I get a safe way out of here.........No! I am not changing my mind. I will not give you one hostage now!........ Yeah! You better go get the damn money.

(Slams the phone closed and puts it in his pocket. Looks at his men and the crew.)

                           ABDI

They keep trying to get us to hand over one or two hostages before we get the money. I don't think I am ready to call shots on something this big. They like to play mind games........ Why would they try to snipe us? We just want the money.........They would rather just have the money and the hostages? That’s nonsense! Well... I guess you might be right. Then we will just have to be more careful. Put the crewmembers up in front of the windows. If they fire then they hit the hostages that they are trying to save! I just want the fishermen out of my waters. If they want to keep sending people here then they will pay the price until the day they learn from the error of their ways.

Inner thought (Spotlight on Abdi): Part of this is obviously just for the money. I would like to be rich and make money for my family. How many people care for the fishing and dumping. I still do because it is my people’s land but it is not my land. I do not own these waters. I am making money from this while fighting for a good cause. Is that right? No it isn’t is it. What am I talking about of course it is.

Outer dialogue: Okay this is where things get out of hand. We need to kill one of the hostages don’t we? I heard you all talking........ Of course there is something wrong with it. Isn’t there?......Maybe your right. They were illegally fishing. Yeah! Do it.......(They hand him a gun.) Me?......You want me to do it? ( He looks down and the floor in thought) Okay. I will do it. He pulled the captain down to his knees in front of him (The man is on his knees on the opposite side of the stage and the boy is pointing the gun at the crowd as if it was the man.) and dialed on the phone........ Hello. I am calling to let you know that we are going to kill the captain......No. I don’t have a choice. (He gives the phone to the captain.)......Hey! (He hit him hard and fired. He shoots at the crowd and the man falls on the other side of the stage.) He is dead but he told the damn coast how many of us there are and the weapons that we have...... Yeah you’re right. They have no way to get us.

Inner monologue (spotlight on Abdi): I am not so sure that we are very safe in here. I should try to be easier on them to get what I want instead of using force. I don’t think I should have killed that man. That was not good. I should have let him live.........No! He paid for his crimes. That was justice. Not murder. Or is there no difference? Of course there is!...Is there?


                                                       Act 4

                                                   Scene 1

(Group of military men with the coast guard trying to negotiate. American hostage negotiator talking through the cell phone to the pirates.)

                   OFFICER STEVEN WALSKEY

(He constantly stares out at the boat squinting or looks through Binoculars) Hello this is Officer Steven Wolsey. I just want these people safe........No you are not!........ This is absolutely ridiculous.....Just let them all go and we will let you go free....Fine! Give us the hostages and all the money is yours. I have it right here.....(whispers to the people next to him.) Go ahead and snipe them out. The room has tons of windows. (Back to the people on the phone.) Ah! You smart-ass! Take the hostages out of the window. We will stop dumping and fishing. Does that sound good? Just give us one hostage........No! No. No.No.No.No don’t do that! Take it easy and don’t kill anyone. Hey! Take it easy.......Calm down.....Just breath man and relax okay....(Draws out the word relax very long.) Relax........God dammit! He shot one of the damn hostages! I give up! Get the money or more are going to die!

Inner thoughts (Spotlight on Steve.): is 3,000,000 dollars really something that we could consider spending for a few lives. Are their lives really worth that kind of money?

                                                          Act 5

                                                       Scene 1

(Nicholas sits tied up thinking about what was going on. The men lie behind him all tied up as well. A few men sit in the full body sized windows. The crewmembers sit randomly across the room and Abdi paces.)

                           NICHOLAS

Inner thoughts (Spotlight on fisher): Oh god! Oh no no no! Ee killed im. Ee shot im in the ed. What am I going to do now? They are killers. They don’t need the money.  What will appen to us? Okay! Breath. Breath. Inhale exhale. We are obeying them. They won’t urt us....All this for some fishes? This is too much. Please god I ave realized what I ave done wrong. I promise that I ave. Let me live and please let this all just end. Don’t make any more people die today.

                                                    Act 6

                                                Scene 1

(Abdi is trying hard to keep the crew in line. They are in the cabin room still and the crew is sitting and still struggling against the ropes except for the silent Nicholas.)

                            ABDI

We need to give them the hostages. As simple as that................Forget about the money. We need to get out of here. We won’t win this we should get out while we can...............I know. I do want the money. I just can’t kill another person and I can’t do this because someone wants me to. It’s not right.

Inner Thought (Spotlight on Abdi): I won’t become a bad person. Not now. I have my whole life ahead of me. This has got to change. I have to put things right and let these people go. I killed that man. I can only pray that god will forgive me.( looks up at the ceiling of the cabin as if he could see the sky.) I will do what I can to make things right. I hope my father will understand. They shouldn’t dump in the water or fish and steal our resources but that is no reason for people to die.

                            ABDI

We are leaving. The prisoners are being freed. The chaos is over. (They start to walk to the door. The boy opens it and falls to the floor instantly after he hears one of his friends yell his name. “Abdi!”

                                                   Act 7

                                                Scene 1

(Officer Steven Walskey is watching the cabin.)

                    OFFICER STEVEN WALSKEY

Wait! I see movement................ Yeah. Uh uh yeah get the snipers ready. Train their eyes on the prize............. Okay I see them. I see them moving. Ready to fire once in sight!.........The door is open. Its one of them! Fire! (Just before he screams fire her hears one of the pirates scream the name “Abdi!”) Abdi? What is that?...................... A name? Of who?............The boy? Boy?........ We shot a boy? (Gulps down sorrow).................... Oh god.