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The Coward

Name _______________________

Every day, when classes were over, Mark played soccer with the boys in his class. Usually, everyone enjoyed the game very much. One day, Luke suggested something else. Knowing that his parents weren't home, he said, "Let's go to my house instead." When everybody was sitting in his bedroom, Luke said, "See that window leading onto the roof? Let's see who can climb down from the window the fastest. Whoever reaches the ground first is the winner." Some boys thought it was a great idea, but Mark didn't think so. He said very loudly, "That's a stupid idea. I'm going home.'' Luke started to laugh at him and call him a coward. Soon the other boys joined in too. Mark was scared. He knew that he climbing out on the roof was dangerous. Besides, he was afraid of heights and he didn't want to do it. He just wanted to play soccer.

Mark's needs:

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Mark's feelings:

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Luke's needs:

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Luke's feelings:

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Write an ending for the story.

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Adapted from a lesson at Opening the Door to Nonviolence.

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