>> NARRATOR: Tonight, part two of a Frontline special series.

For everyone who remembers what it was like to be young.

When the whole world seemed to stretch out in front of you while you were stuck in your own backyard, comes the story of Chris and Cody-- two American boys growing up in a hard land.

♪ ♪ >> There is no chance I'm slacking off this year.

>> NARRATOR: Tonight: a new year brings new hope.

>> I'm not giving up, not like I did last year.

>> A new feeling of pride bolsters Chris at school.

>> I'm going to be taking names today to whoever wants to sing in the choir.

>> NARRATOR: Until everything falls apart at home.

>> Christopher, his drinking is why I'm leaving.

>> My mother, she said her moving out is temporary, but I think this time it's on more of a permanent basis.

>> My parents don't know that I want to get married as soon as I do.

>> NARRATOR: And as Cody's relationship with Jessica deepens, tensions mount at home.

>> Ray drinks a lot.

I've seen him drunk just about every time I go over there.

>> Do you know Cody was sleeping in her bed?

>> Not everybody in the world is as closed minded as you are.

(horn blaring) >> NARRATOR: And meanwhile, Chris's problems lead him down a dark path.

>> Let's party!

After school I went to Kim's house.

(laughs) We had a wild night.

>> Chris, this young lady was taken to the emergency room on Saturday evening.

>> Everything I had strived to do-- the choir, the newspaper, everything got destroyed completely.

>> NARRATOR: And now, the dramatic continuation of David Sutherland's Country Boys.

(dog barking) >> Chris.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> Open your eyes.

Christopher, I'm not going to stand here and wake you up.

Come on, you've got to wake up.

There you go.

>> Hey, can I have a cigarette, Mom?

>> Yeah, here.

Yeah.

Christopher, when you go to school this year, and you go every day, you keep up your work, because... >> Think my old asthma's kicked up again.

>> Christopher, you don't want to be digging ditches or whatever.

>> Well, I told you I would.

I will, Mom.

There's no way that I'm slacking off this year.

>> Mm-hmm.

Good.

>> Right now I need to get ready for school.

>> You just have to get in the shower.

>> Yes.

(train whistle blows) >> Cody, are you ready for school?

>> Yeah.

>> You've done well at David school.

>> I know.

>> They like you really well.

You're highly respected up there.

>> Mm-hmm, yeah.

>> That opens a lot of doors for you.

>> Yeah, I'm going to definitely try to study and all that stuff.

>> Good, good.

>> Yeah.

>> Well, I think you need to go to school.

>> I know, I am.

You don't have to worry about that.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> Well, I'm going to go to school.

>> Okay, hon.

>> I'll see you later.

>> Okay.

Bye.

(humming) >> ♪ I don't need a mansion ♪ ♪ Don't want a limousine ♪ ♪ I don't need no diamonds ♪ ♪ Or fancy golden rings ♪ ♪ I like livin' in the country ♪ ♪ Sittin' on a back-porch swing... ♪ >> No, really I love you.

You want to go make some kittens?

Yeah, baby, I love you.

>> Hey, Cody.

>> What's up?

>> Her friend came over, and he had sex with her, man.

>> ♪ I'm just a country boy ♪ ♪ That's how I was raised ♪ ♪ I'll stay a country boy ♪ ♪ Till they put me in my grave.

♪ >> Gosh, everyone's getting gay, man.

>> Yeah, people around here don't take too kindly to a gay guy.

>> No, no.

>> Most football players pat me on the back, shake my hand before they even talk to a gay guy.

>> Yeah, they don't.

They hate you.

>> Yeah.

Most of the football players are gay.

>> What?

>> ♪ It was hard but we had a lot of fun ♪ ♪ On those hot summer days ♪ ♪ Start in the morning, work until dark ♪ ♪ Puttin' up that hay ♪ ♪ I'm just a country boy ♪ ♪ That's how I was raised ♪ ♪ I'll stay a country boy ♪ ♪ Till they put me in my grave.

♪ >> Did I tell you about Jessica's mom taking me out to dinner to the Taco Bell?

>> All right.

What I want to go over with you guys this morning is what we expect for this year.

The problem I had last year, Chris, when I would call someone in the office and talk to them, I said, "Well, we didn't know that.

We hadn't heard that before."

And I was sitting there with their signed student contract.

They hadn't read it.

>> There is no way I'm slacking off this year.

I'm not giving up, not like I did last year.

>> ...to set goals, to make rational decisions, because sometimes we can make those quick decisions and they kind of come back to haunt us a little whiles after that.

>> Last year, I didn't really try.

>> We want you to be a productive person.

>> If I had truly wanted to, I could have done it.

I know I could have.

But I was too busy being pissed off at the teachers to worry about my work.

>> This was a problem last year.

It will not be tolerated this year.

So do you have any questions?

You ready for a tough year, Chris?

>> Mm-hmm.

Why not?

>> Well, you're up to it.

>> I have two major goals for this year.

>> I see you're getting a jump on that today.

>> Perfect attendance, and to keep my class work to where I'll pass.

Well, thank you.

It was very informative.

>> Okay.

Thank you, Chris.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> Okay, Charles Darwin, The Origin of the Species.

This is where he states that man evolved from ape.

>> Oh, really?

>> Now, it's up to you to make up your own mind.

>> But it just don't make any sense.

>> I've just never been real good in school.

You know, all through school, I've always just scraped by.

Last year I think I did really well.

I passed all my classes.

I made good grades.

>> But I honestly don't believe I evolved from an ape.

I don't believe Christ looked like an ape, at least by what is stated in the Bible, his description.

>> It says an average looking man.

>> An average looking man, not an ape.

>> I think it would be a bunch of crap if Jesus was a monkey.

>> If Adam was the first man, did he evolve from ape?

See, that's a direct contradiction to the Bible, 'cause God created man.

>> Yeah.

The atheists' belief doesn't make sense because they say everything formed from molecules, but, just like how it's hard to explain where God came from, well, they can't explain where the molecules came from either.

So it makes just about as much sense.

>> It depends on how you're brought up, your beliefs.

>> Yup.

>> And we are a Christian society.

>> Hey, Cody.

Come on, let's go.

>> All right, yup.

>> Father, I want to thank you for this evening.

Thank you for the folks you brought out.

And Lord, I ask that you would just bless this time that we have together, be glorified in everything that we say and do.

Pray in Jesus' name, amen.

>> Amen.

>> What is the number-one, number-one complaint that people have against Christians?

>> Hypocrites.

>> Hypocrites!

Right?

>> Uh-huh.

>> Yep.

>> Are you guys hypocrites?

>> Sometimes.

>> Sometimes.

>> People make you feel guilty sometimes.

I've got computer class, and we all know how computers like to cooperate with people.

(laughter) And I say a word sometimes that I shouldn't say, and they'll go, "I thought you went to church."

I'm like...

It just makes me want to say more words to them.

But you can't after that.

>> But now they're-- but now they're-- but now they're holy words, right?

Cody, you ever been mad at God?

>> Oh, yeah, but I never really wanted to admit it at the time.

>> I've been like... >> I've been frustrated.

>> Yeah.

>> And I've even gone as far as wondering if he's real-- real or not.

And tell me how much sense this makes.

I'm sitting there asking him if he's real.

>> Yeah, I've done that.

>> But I want to be the best I can be, but I don't always live up to that.

And I know, I know for a fact I could have done better.

You know, it's not like I feel that I have to be that way, it's just I want to be that way.

And I know it's hard, but I don't really care.

>> Yeah.

>> I don't know, maybe I get more disappointed in myself on those days.

>> The Christian life is like a big bag of Jell-O.

You pick it up, and it whooshes out here, and then you reach over and you pick that up, and it whooshes out over here.

And trying to live the Christian life in your own strength is like that.

>> So maybe God's like Tupperware.

(laughter) >> Tupperware.

>> Oh, something to add to the illustration.

>> The Great Tupperware.

(car horn honks) >> Okay.

When we last left, things were really bad.

Chris, let's read some out loud.

>> "She had pulled down shades, pinched out candles, "and grown old.

"Now, chalk in hand, she stood back from life a silent hour before reaching for the eraser."

>> Okay, this is really neat, what she's saying about her family.

Did you get the part about the hand mirror?

>> Yeah, the child is her offspring, so there's a little part of her in every one of her children.

>> Right.

>> I know this for a fact, there is no perfect family.

>> She's still living.

>> There isn't.

I know.

Hell, I'm the leading authority.

I mean, my whole family's in on this.

My mother and father's fighting over the littlest things.

>> Randall, what's the problem?

>> I know.

>> Yeah.

>> It died right in the middle of town!

>> I don't care.

Kiss that goodbye.

>> My mom being the hard worker she is, she works at Holiday Inn cleaning rooms.

>> Cost me $5,000 to redo the car.

>> No, Randall, my money bought every part.

>> Kiss that goodbye.

>> My father does nothing.

He can't work because he drinks.

>> I know, Randall, I did that.

>> Come out here a minute, Chris.

>> All right, Pop.

>> Put that back in there.

>> Randall!

It died right in the middle of town.

>> I know that.

>> Randall!

The battery's going to go dead!

Yeah.

>> Lord have mercy.

>> You don't want to admit it!

>> I can't-- I can't take it.

>> Beat the fire out of you.

What's the problem?

>> And when I turn 18 I told them straight.

>> You've had plenty of money to buy one.

>> I'm moving.

That's it.

I'm leaving.

>> Daggone it, Sheila, I don't care.

>> Randall, don't you blame me.

(dogs barking) >> Now, Cody, are they going to just take two of the wisdom teeth out at a time?

>> They're going to take all four of 'em.

>> All four of 'em.

Oh, you're going to be a sick boy.

>> I'll be doped up pretty good.

>> Well, I hope they called your aunt... >> Yeah.

>> And she'd get the order.

>> Uh-huh.

>> Cody, there's the dentist.

>> I'm not too fond of going to the dentist.

>> Cody, you're always nervous.

>> Yeah.

I'm hoping I'm not going to be really, really sick.

>> Mm-hmm.

Okay.

Hello.

>> Hi.

>> Cody Perkins.

>> Are you his mother?

>> I'm his grandmother.

>> Do you have a paper stating you have legal guardianship to sign?

>> I don't have it with me.

>> We can see you if you have a paper stating that today you have legal guardianship to sign for a surgery consent form.

Today his consult is for Dr. Burke to explain to you what would be done.

>> Uh-huh.

>> And for someone to sign the consent form, agreeing to have it done.

>> Well, I don't-- I don't have it with me.

I filled out one three years ago.

>> Who actually has legal guardianship of him?

>> My aunt.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> When she comes, she would have him with her, as well as court orders stating that she has custody to do that for us.

>> Okay.

>> Okay?

>> All right.

>> Thank you.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> That was a bunch of crap.

>> Yes, it's a bunch of crap.

Your aunt will be happy about this, won't she?

>> If she would have just told the Social Security office, it would've saved us so much trouble.

>> Mm-hmm, yeah.

>> I might call her and ask her about...

I really worry about my dad's family trying to take me out of Liz's house.

>> Honey, don't worry about that.

>> Because they have legal control over me.

They never have tried to understand where I'm coming from, ever.

I just don't see what good it's doing her having custody of me when you're taking care of me.

>> She didn't want to go back to the judge and have it changed because it costs $500.

>> Yeah, I know.

I just wish Liz was my legal guardian.

>> Because she could have gone and got a permission that I can sign, Cody.

>> You don't have to tell me about it, I know.

>> Maybe they think that's the only thing that we have to do.

(train whistle blows) >> ♪ Home, come on home ♪ ♪ Ye who are weary come home ♪ >> Chris, you've got a good voice.

>> Mm-hmm.

♪ Softly and tenderly calling ♪ ♪ Home, come on home ♪ I like to sing.

Singing is great.

I have a ball.

And, you see, I am good.

So I decided to start a choir.

♪ Now don't be afraid of the darkness ♪ ♪ And don't run away from the storm ♪ ♪ Stand up and face your reflection ♪ ♪ The feelings you try to ignore ♪ ♪ 'Cause after the tempest is over ♪ ♪ You feel yourself come on drifting ♪ ♪ You'll hear a voice in the silence ♪ ♪ Tenderly calling to you ♪ (bell rings) >> Good morning!

>> CLASS: Good morning!

>> We had student singers the last semester, which was really neat.

I don't know if I was more excited about the singers during graduation or the ones graduating.

So we would like to start that up.

This could also feed into the nursing home, going out and singing for some of the residents there, also Parents' Night, also Christmas.

So I'm going to let Chris Johnson introduce the choir project or singing project.

Chris?

>> Well, I'm going to be taking names today at lunch to whoever wants to sing in the choir and whoever don't.

It doesn't matter.

But I really encourage everyone to come and try out.

I mean, there's really no initiation.

Heck, it may even get you out of a few classes.

But give it a shot.

You may like it.

>> Thank you, Chris.

(applause) >> What a day.

>> And thanks, guys.

>> Anybody can join at any time.

It's just that I'd like to go ahead and get this up and running.

>> Yeah.

>> Okay, let's see what we can do.

>> Hey, Tussie!

Be a part of a choir?

>> Negative.

>> Sign right under here.

>> You're going to have me singing.

>> The first thing I did when I wanted people to join the choir was, I just walked straight up to a group.

Come on, try.

At least try for a week.

They probably thought I was crazy.

You see, last year, when I started the newspaper, the reason why it was so hard for me was because I was always thinking, "What are they going to think when I do this?"

No, you see, the thing about this is, all we're going to do is... "What are they going to say behind my back?"

...the senior citizens, and things like that.

>> Oh, see, now you're putting a guilt trip on me.

But all right, I'll do it.

>> This year, I don't give a damn.

Anybody interested in the choir?

>> No way!

>> Come on, give it a try for at least a week.

>> She's a good singer!

>> No, really.

>> You've got to try it.

>> Well, I've got to think about it.

>> You've got to give it a try.

>> They need good singers.

>> You going to join?

>> Yeah.

>> Good, you're in the choir.

>> My name is Sexy Mama.

I'm a sexy mama.

>> Where'd you get that from?

>> I made it up because it's true.

>> Okay.

>> All I need is ice cream and you.

>> So let's name our kids Shatwonkwa.

>> They'll never be able to spell it.

>> Me and Jessica, we really love each other... Shatwonkwa.

...and we've been dating for about two years now.

I'd be more than happy to get married to her and have kids.

>> Will Bill marry us?

If we want him to, or if he wants to?

>> If... well, both.

I think Jessica would marry me today if it was possible, but I'm not even out of high school yet.

I don't need to be thinking about marriage.

>> He may think we're too young or something.

Cody and I, we're going to, like, get married after high school.

My parents don't exactly know that I want to get married as soon as I do.

I can't stand that.

I don't even mention it around them.

They just get nervous about us living in poverty.

>> So you're both going to go to the same college, right?

>> Yeah.

I don't even know what grade I'm in.

>> Could we please quit talking about this?

>> Don't they graduate you, Cody?

Or what do they do?

>> I told you already.

Yes, I told you like 700 times.

>> They'll graduate me.

They'll tell me what grade I'm in when I'm a senior.

>> My parents love Cody.

And I think when I do tell them I want to get married, they're going to freak out at first, but I think they'd be all right with it if Cody had a job and I had a job.

>> Jessica, I hope you take something you can make some money at.

Secretarial stuff is not going to pay much, I can tell you right now.

>> Stop it!

>> It's not.

'Cause I know... >> You've asked me before.

>> Well, I'd like to know what you're going to do.

>> And I've told you.

>> Me and daddy likes to know where our money's going to be spent.

>> I told you already, no!

>> Jessica.

I would like to know what you're going to do.

>> Mom, please, help me.

(dog barking) >> All right.

Chris wanted to do this for all of us, so I think it's important that each of us individually put enough effort into this to equal the amount of effort that he has put into it.

And that's by being respectful of the director here, of Chris and his efforts, okay?

>> Uh-huh.

>> Thank you.

>> All right, LaShay, start us off.

>> ♪ Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer ♪ ♪ had a very shiny nose ♪ ♪ And if you ever saw it ♪ ♪ You would even say it glows ♪ >> Like a light bulb!

(laughter) >> Second time around.

Second time around.

That's all right, that's all right.

We'll try it... ♪ They never let poor Rudolph join in any reindeer games ♪ ♪ Then one foggy Christmas Eve ♪ ♪ Santa came to say... ♪ (bell rings) >> Put your chairs back, if you don't mind.

>> Pick up your chairs.

>> Take your chairs back.

Hey, Brandy, you're doing great.

Hey, Tussie.

Go pick that up.

>> Oh, negative.

>> No, seriously.

>> Why?

>> Because this place needs to remain clean.

Go on, pick that up.

>> (whimpering) Yeah, cry all you want.

Go on.

Go on over there.

Get that ball.

>> La-la-la-la-la!

>> None of those little tricks, Tussie.

>> Okay, Cody, what you're going to do, what we're going to do here is sit down here at the machine.

>> Mm-hmm, okay.

Yup.

>> And we're going to sew from this point right here... >> Yep.

>> And we're going to put that in sideways because you can sew over that outer edge there.

And we're going to start right here.

And see where the end of this is right here, Cody?

>> Mm-hmm.

>> That's your guide, to stay on that line, okay?

>> All right.

>> That's the guide that you don't want to go any farther than that with that outer edge there.

All the way to the end of that edge there.

A little bit farther.

Okay.

Hey, you got it!

>> That's actually pretty cool.

>> You did it.

>> Carol, the Home Ec.

teacher, she needs to loosen up a little bit with her sense of humor.

>> You're going to reach into here, Cody, like this... >> Carol asked the girls if I was gay, and she said, "He hangs the curtains really good.

He's got long hair."

But other than that, I like her.

>> No, no, right down here.

You have to grab this... you have to grab all that other stuff there, and then just flip it inside out.

>> Cool.

>> Hey, there you go.

That's a quil-low.

>> I like all my teachers.

The new computer teacher, she's real nice.

I've become a lot more interested in computers here lately.

>> Oh.

Oh, cough, cough, cough.

>> What?

This is older than crap.

(exhales) Oh.

Don't do that on my bed.

I told you I have a lot of dust in it.

>> (coughs): Yeah.

Screwdriver.

>> What?

>> I'm going to steal this motherboard, though, if it's as old as I think.

>> Ricky, you can have the monitor.

>> Let's see.

We probably get some money for it, selling it in an antique shop or something.

>> I've known Ricky for a long time.

I've known Ricky being straight.

>> Cody.

>> What?

>> Help.

>> What?

>> There's nothing wrong with gay people... >> Cody.

>> ...but when you're used to somebody being straight, it's just a change.

>> Now is that an antique, or what?

(exhales) (laughs) >> I didn't think any less of him, but I did think differently of him, and... >> Made in Singapore.

Yay.

>> He goes, "Does this make you think any different of me?"

I said, "Yeah, you're a fag."

I said, "You're not the same person."

I said, "I still like you, though."

He said, "Okay."

You know what this would be good for?

>> No.

>> Anybody you don't like, just... (laughs) It would be perfect.

(rooster crows) (dog barks) (harmonica playing) >> All right, class, I think we're a little flat.

>> We're going to try and see if we can carry a note.

>> Did you say "fat"?

>> Flat!

Flat, flat!

Just a little.

>> Girls, hum it.

>> ♪ La... ♪ >> Try and mimic the note with your voice.

>> ♪ Silent night... ♪ >> You too, Miller.

♪ Holy night ♪ ♪ All is calm ♪ ♪ all is bright... ♪ >> All right, I've got a question for everyone.

How many of you can harmonize?

Everybody has to at least try it once to see if they can harmonize.

>> Ah, buddy!

>> Chris!

I'll give it a try, see if I can teach them.

>> All right, go ahead.

>> All right, I'm going to show you all the easy way to learn how to match notes.

All right, everybody plug one ear.

All right?

No, I'm serious, I'm serious.

All right.

Now, you notice when you talk, you can hear yourself, all right?

You hear, you hear exactly how you sound.

Let's see, where is middle C at?

Here it is.

All right, when you hit a note, you try to get your voice to match that pitch.

(all humming to tune) You'll hear it if you're off.

There'll be, like, a vibration between your voice and the note.

See, like if you're off of it.

Like that, see.

>> Cody's wild.

He can make a joke out of anything.

(all humming) >> And I mean, that's awesome.

I'm taking Cody's thoughts.

You know, he doesn't care what people think of him.

>> The same transfer whenever you're singing... >> He just does what he does to have fun.

>> The same key, like, whoever we're following... >> And I'm glad I got him to join the choir.

>> I don't know if I did any good or not, Chris.

>> Well, how about "Amazing Grace," huh?

>> ♪ Amazing grace... ♪ >> Miller.

Miller!

>> ♪ How sweet the sound ♪ ♪ That saved a wretch like me ♪ ♪ I once was lost ♪ ♪ But now I'm found ♪ ♪ Was blind, but now I see.

♪ ♪ 'Twas grace that taught by heart to feel ♪ ♪ And grace my fear released ♪ (dog barking) >> Listen here real quick, dad.

>> Yeah?

(strumming guitar) >> Chris.

>> Pop.

>> Yeah.

>> I can't do it anymore.

>> I don't know, honestly.

>> Open, like I told you.

>> When I was younger, my father tried to teach me the guitar.

>> That's open G. >> Bottom and top.

>> He, he tried to teach me a chord or two.

>> See what I'm sayin', Chris?

>> But I'd never get it.

My father is like, if you don't learn it on the first time, you might as well give it up.

So I have to use my own personal type of persuasion.

>> Dad, this thing don't sound right.

Mess up on a chord on purpose.

Honestly.

Maybe ask him about a song.

>> No.

>> It may take a little time, but I'll get him.

>> Open, like I told you.

I know, Chris.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> Okay, that's what you're going to see, Chris.

>> Here's a pick if you need it.

(strumming guitar) >> Now, you hear that?

>> Yeah.

>> Right here?

>> I ain't got nothin' to do with it, see.

(strumming) >> You need a pair of pliers?

(strumming) >> See what I'm saying?

>> No, but look here... >> You always go back to where you come from.

Always go back.

>> Oh, okay.

>> You see what I'm saying?

>> Yeah.

>> You always go back.

And G, D, and C, you play any song you want to play.

I know.

Down, Shorty.

Hey, tell him to get them paid first, Chris.

>> All right.

(strumming) (sighs) (continues strumming) What happened?

♪ ♪ (sniffles) I'm worried about my mother right now.

She's been hurt by my father so many times.

Quite frankly, my parents can't stand each other when they're together.

They're always arguing about the littlest things, and I just don't know what will happen.

(dog barking) (continues strumming) ♪ ♪ >> Let's see now.

>> Hey, Chris.

>> Uh-huh.

>> Getting ready for the-- the choir?

>> Mm-hmm.

>> Yeah, I hope y'all do good, man.

>> Yeah.

>> What are you all going...

I mean, you all going to be just singing one song?

>> Yeah, just "Friends" here.

>> You're the first one to ever start a choir or anything here, aren't you?

>> Well, student-wise I'm the first.

>> Student-wise, that's what I was getting at.

>> What a day.

You're getting out?

>> Mm-hmm, I know.

>> And I'm just getting stuck deeper.

>> When, when do you think you'll get out?

Or do you know?

Some people don't know when they're going.

>> Maybe when I'm 30.

30 or my late 30s.

>> Yeah.

>> You nervous?

>> Not really.

>> Not really?

>> Mm-mm, what about you, man?

>> Nervous as hell.

>> Well, you're going to be singing.

I can say so.

>> I don't know, I'll probably blend in with the background.

>> Okay, the back row stand next to the piano, please.

>> All right, I get to squeeze in the corner.

>> Okay, now the front row please take about six steps back.

>> Excuse me.

>> Stay where you are, that's great.

>> Now I've got to squeeze behind the piano.

>> Just a few little things before graduation.

And I wanted to thank Chris, the director here, for all of his effort.

His classmates wanted to sing, and Chris had the initiative to start the choir.

Chris wanted to do this for all of us, mostly his classmates.

(applause) And Chris, thank you, we appreciate your efforts.

(applause) All right, Chris, start the tape.

>> All right.

Sing your hearts out.

♪ ♪ >> ♪ Packing up the dreams God planted ♪ ♪ in the first soil of you ♪ ♪ Can't believe the hopes he's granted ♪ ♪ Means a chapter in your life is through ♪ ♪ And friends are friends forever ♪ ♪ If the Lord's the Lord of them ♪ ♪ And a friend will not say never ♪ ♪ Cause the welcome will not end ♪ ♪ Though it's hard to let you go ♪ ♪ In the Father's whose hands we know ♪ ♪ That a lifetime's not too long ♪ ♪ To live as friends ♪ ♪ ♪ (dog barking) >> Well, mom, good news.

>> Yeah.

>> You should have been there.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> The choir did fantastic.

We sounded good.

>> Yeah.

>> We sounded real good.

>> Christopher, I ain't leaving forever.

I just can't do this no more.

I can live here, and me and Randall can fight seven days a week.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> I know.

I told you.

That's what I'm trying to take.

>> We get along better when we ain't living together.

A whole lot better.

We don't fight.

>> Yeah, I knew that.

>> And it's just better that way.

>> This ain't no long-term thing, is it?

>> Just for a while.

Just till... just for a break.

>> Just a break?

>> Yeah.

>> My mother, she said her moving out is temporary...

I know how you feel.

But I think this time it may be on a more permanent basis.

>> I'll come up every once in a while, make sure everything's okay, and, you know... >> It's just basically for sanity.

>> His drinking's the biggest part of it.

>> Yeah.

>> And until he can admit it, there ain't no point of me being here with him, 'cause I can't handle it no more.

It's just out of hand.

>> Well, I told you, if you ever need my help, doesn't matter what it is, you let me know.

>> Yeah.

>> The first time my mother moved out, I went through sadness, depression, anger, you name it.

>> Better than going forever.

>> True.

>> Randall don't like it, but he knows I'm going to do it anyway.

He won't admit that his drinking is why I'm leaving.

He's used my job, he's used my friends, he's used everything but his drinking.

Mom, she can tolerate Randall better than I can.

But then again, she don't sleep with him either.

>> I know that!

>> I don't know what's wrong with it.

I'm assuming... >> I got to redo the car.

>> I don't know... >> Daggone it, Sheila.

>> It can't be flooding 'cause it starts too easy.

>> I know.

>> As soon at died, all I had to do is kick it over, and she started right back again.

>> I know that!

>> My father's mad about my mother going, because the first thing he starts doing, he'll bicker about the smallest things.

>> Lord have mercy.

Kiss that goodbye.

>> So that's when I know he's mad about something.

>> It cost me $5,000 to redo the car.

>> Hey, pop, you doing okay?

>> Yeah.

>> It wouldn't be necessarily toward me or anybody.

He just needs something to get it off his chest.

>> Kiss that goodbye.

Chris... >> I know.

>> You've got to watch where you step.

>> Yeah, that's right.

>> Yeah, I know.

>> We sang today at that graduation.

>> Yeah, David told me that.

>> Yeah, cool.

(Corey burps) >> You know something, Jessica?

>> What?

>> It's December now!

It's cold!

(belches) I got gas!

>> I noticed.

>> Jessica, so how's the homestead?

>> It's all right.

>> What are you getting your dad for Christmas?

>> Some new lungs, a new liver.

>> Uh-huh.

And then?

>> A pullover shirt.

>> I don't know what to get your dad.

>> ♪ Just another drink of whiskey ♪ ♪ And I'll be feeling fine.

♪ ♪ Another drink of whiskey ♪ ♪ You'll be off my mind.

♪ ♪ Another song on the jukebox ♪ ♪ A slow dance on the floor.

♪ ♪ Just another drink of whiskey ♪ ♪ And I won't know you anymore.

♪ >> Ray is a real nice guy.

It's just that he drinks a lot.

♪ pour me another round.

♪ >> He never drinks when you're looking at him, but I've seen him drunk just about every time I go over there.

>> ♪ Lord, they're so hard to drown ♪ ♪ Just another drink of whiskey.

♪ >> Ray, he's outgoing, but he's secretive, too.

I think he puts on kind of a front towards everybody unless he knows 'em.

>> ♪ and she'll be off my mind.

♪ ♪ Well, like a ship through the ocean ♪ ♪ And a river to the sea ♪ ♪ Like a magnet's true north ♪ ♪ She's got to pull on me ♪ ♪ Just another drink of whiskey ♪ ♪ And I'll be feeling fine.

♪ ♪ Another drink of whiskey ♪ ♪ She'll be off of my mind.

♪ ♪ Another song on the jukebox ♪ ♪ A slow dance on the floor.

♪ ♪ Another drink of whiskey ♪ ♪ And I won't know you anymore.

♪ >> Hmm.

(whistling "Winter Wonderland") >> Mom!

>> You scream at me one more time, honey, and you're in trouble.

>> Huh, home sweet home.

>> Hey, that's my Christmas dinner.

Don't you dare touch.

>> Chris, can I put some makeup on you?

>> No, if you're going to put that crap on, I'm going to be the one to put it on.

I don't need my teeth full of gook, you know.

Give me the... give me the lipstick.

>> Go wipe it off.

Put you some pretty red on it to go with your fingernails.

>> God, dog, the things I do for people.

Looks more of a pink... What am I doing?

>> Oh, Chris, you're shiny.

Redo him, Amy.

He slopped it on.

>> Well, I ain't exactly a makeup boutique here.

>> You're just lovely.

>> I don't exactly look human.

>> You look like a girl.

>> Oh, I'm ugly.

Well, mama.

>> Yeah?

>> I think I'll give you a little kiss.

>> Oh, God!

Get out!

>> There you go.

Make you happy.

>> He get it on me, Amy?

>> Oh, wait, forgot the forehead.

Forgot the forehead.

Hold on, hold on.

>> Get away!

Chris, you're grounded!

(laughing) >> All right!

God, there's stuff up my nose and everything!

You got any nail polish or a nail remover?

>> Yeah, but you ain't getting it right now.

>> Oh, God, I look like my mother.

>> That's my payback.

>> Boy, imagine when I go back to school, what the boys will think.

"What the heck happened to you?"

>> Now you've got glittery eyes.

>> Hey, Randall.

Come out.

>> Chris, no.

>> Daddio, come on.

Help a brother out.

>> No.

>> Or a son.

>> He won't come out.

>> Well, dad's one on... on one of his binges, so... Oh, God.

I guess we'll leave him to it.

My father is not coming out here tonight.

He knows my mother's moving out before long.

He's very sad.

♪ One of those times of year.

♪ >> Chris, no.

>> This morning I actually stopped my parents arguing again.

Well, mama.

What the argument was over, was my mother gave my father $25 to buy cigarettes, but he drank it up and passed out drunk.

>> Real, real bad.

>> So the first thing she did was dumped a jug of water on him.

I got 'em both apart from each other, talked to 'em both, and settled that argument.

What am I hunting, buffalo?

But they can't live with each other anymore.

>> Well, did you like what you got?

>> Yeah.

>> Good.

>> The sword's my favorite.

So this is going to be our last family Christmas together.

But you see, there are some things you have to accept.

>> Let's see the jewel in it, is your birthstone.

>> Is it?

>> Mm-hmm.

>> Well, Christmas was fun.

>> I guess.

I'm tired now.

You wore me out.

>> Oh, pooey.

>> Christopher, I've got to pack up and leave.

>> Why don't you sing with me?

>> Chris, I don't want school to know why I'm leaving.

>> All right.

Why don't you sing with me?

>> No.

>> ♪ Jingle bells, shotgun shells ♪ Come on.

(dog barking) >> Hey, Jessica, I want you to open yours first.

>> No, you open them at the same time.

It makes me nervous.

>> Well, Cody can open the one from me and dad first, if he wants to.

>> Yeah, do that.

>> Okay.

>> Jessica said you wanted one of these.

>> Ooh, a camera.

I'm going to take pictures of you and sell them on the internet.

>> That's got a roll of film, and then it's got a coupon where you can get that roll of film developed free.

>> This is nice!

Thanks, guys!

>> You can get a roll of film developed free with the coupon.

>> Since you all have opened your presents, I'm trying to write this song.

>> Oh, please.

You're beating a dead horse.

>> Well, this is for my lovely wife, believe it or not.

>> Uh-huh.

♪ ♪ >> It's called, "All Of These Years."

>> Yeah.

>> ♪ Through the years... ♪ I already started It out wrong.

>> Oh, please.

Is that the same one that you just played?

>> Huh?

Yeah.

>> Okay.

Well, repeat it again.

>> ♪ I felt your tears ♪ ♪ fall on my face ♪ Through the years >> Oh, please.

Ray, how many years we've been married now?

Quick, quick, quick, quick, No thinking now!

>> 23.

>> Wrong.

>> 24 >> Almost 24.

>> Cheap.

>> I didn't think he'd guess it right.

>> Guess it?

What do you mean guess it?

>> It seems like 123, huh?

>> No.

>> Ray and Tammy right now, they're not getting along too well.

>> It's true!

>> Well, I know what you'uns is going to say, but I'm going to say... >> There's at least one bad fight every day.

>> Do what?

>> I don't think that's right.

>> Huh?

>> Sometimes, Jessica will catch them fighting when she comes home late.

>> Your first year of life was your first year.

>> They get along good when me and Jessica are there 'cause they don't want to get us involved in it.

>> I've never loaded film in my life.

>> Haven't you?

>> No.

So they're not gettin' along too good.

>> I never did fool with the camera before.

Unless it's got automatic loadin'... >> Tammy, didn't you hear any of the words I say?

>> I was helping Cody with this here camera.

>> (chuckles) I love you... >> Play it again.

Play it again, Sam.

>> All right.

>> What you'll have to do, Cody, is keep reading up on... (indistinct chattering) >> ♪ Well, I never knew love ♪ Until he left town last night ♪ >> I don't think they can hear each other, dad.

>> I didn't think so.

>> Oh, really?

(laughs) >> ♪ Well, I never knew love ♪ ♪ Until he left town last night.... ♪ (dog barking) (grunting) >> I better hurry!

I have to get moved out.

>> Mom, there is no way this is going to fit!

>> That's got to be stuffed in somehow.

>> About the only way we going to load that thing in is we break her in half.

>> Christopher, wiggle it.

>> I don't give a damn.

>> Oh, gosh!

>> Tried to warn you.

>> Jeez.

>> I just don't care.

>> Christopher!

>> Give me a chainsaw, (buzzing), there.

>> Chris, I got the whole back seat.

>> Oh, boy.

Swing it in there and hope for the best.

>> You're so mad you can't see straight.

>> I don't care anymore.

>> You're killing me.

>> I've gotcha.

>> See, now I can put some stuff in the back seat.

>> Oh, bite me.

Second thought, don't.

I don't need any more pain today.

>> Chris, ain't nothing going to change other than me going.

That's it.

Everything else is still going to be the same.

>> Yeah.

>> I just won't be in the house.

Randall!

I'm going to go.

Bye!

>> Mom, I'll see you.

Mom?

>> ♪ Mama, I've seen you cry a million times ♪ ♪ And I knew what was on your mind ♪ ♪ Raising your children that you had on this earth ♪ ♪ There's no flower ,there's no rose ♪ ♪ That has the beauty of your soul ♪ ♪ There's nothin' on this earth that compares.

♪ (pigs grunting) >> Poopah!

Poopah!

(imitating grunting) 'Bout time for a grunt.

(laughs) There he is.

(pig grunting) (laughter) Hey, big bull, big bull, big bull, big bull.

(imitating grunting) Give me a grunt.

(imitating grunting) Give me a grunt!

(pig grunting) He's got a little bit more to go, Chris.

I bottle-fed that pig.

That's true, Chris.

Gimme a grunt!!

(pig grunting) >> Oh, God.

>> Gimme a grunt.

(pig grunting) >> You might as well say the pig's his drinking buddy.

>> It's hard to believe, he's a big'un.

I bottle fed that thing, and look at him now.

(laughs) That's the reason he's so big.

>> My father tries to hide his liquor anywhere he can.

One time he even tried the hog pen.

Well, it turned out the pig got smarter than he thought.

Started opening the bottle.

We had a drunk pig for two days.

>> I make him go just about anywhere he wants to go.

>> And my father's words were, "I'll be damned, the pig got drunk before I did!"

So, he just thinks of it as one of his buddies.

>> That's true.

Find me a bag there, Chris.

>> Since this is out here, I might as well use this.

>> No.

Pick this trash out of here, Chris.

It's off.

>> Mm-hmm.

I know it.

>> Chris?

>> Yeah.

>> Do you got any money?

>> No.

>> Huh?

Gotta have something, daggone it.

>> You know, you're really starting to get on my nerves.

>> Come on, buddy, come on.

I need you.

>> Goddamn it.

I may have two...

I may have two dollars.

>> Hey, Chris?

>> Goddamn.

>> Chris?

>> Fine, I'll drive you up to the liquor store.

>> Chris, have you got two more dollars?

>> Sheesh.

>> Number two.

>> Here.

>> Two.

>> Last two dollars I got here.

>> Serves the same purpose.

>> Well, I just can't stand it here.

Every time he asks me for two dollars, I have to go with him to the liquor store.

Come on, buddy.

I mean, it's like I'm his freakin' bodyguard from the other drunks... >> I need the money.

>> Mm-hmm.

I can't stand that.

Well, I'm going to go ahead and pull out, all right?

>> Well, okay.

>> All right, pop.

♪ ♪ I've been behind the wheel of a car off and on since I was seven.

But now, I just got my driver's license and it gets me out of the house.

I can't stand being at home anymore.

All I have to do is be in my father's presence, and it feels like I'm in a prison.

"Turn that damn music down," or, "Keep quiet in there."

And, hell, the worst part is if I want to have a friend over, I got to see if it's all right with the warden, my father.

I'm not mad at my mother for moving out because at least she gets peace.

So, through the week, I'm at school.

No problem.

And if I get a job at Taco Bell, I'd work every evening, and on the weekends morning 'til night, just so I can get my father out of my hair.

>> So, what does your mom do now?

>> Housekeeping.

>> So she's really busy?

>> Well, right now, she doesn't live with us.

>> So is it just you and your dad and your sister and brother?

>> My grandmother lives there, as well.

>> Your mom's mom?

>> Yeah.

>> Okay.

So, that's the one you're really close to, right?

>> Well, I'm close to my mother.

>> Your mom got tired of it?

>> She got tired of the alcoholism.

>> Uh-huh.

>> You know, the more my father drank, the worse he got.

>> Okay.

>> So she just moved out.

>> Does she kind of feel... feel bad that you guys are still living there with him?

I mean, even though she wanted to... >> No, no.

>> Oh, gosh!

>> No.

>> Yeah.

>> She just basically... "Take care of yourselves."

>> Uh-huh.

(train whistle blowing) >> You are freed from the worthless life you inherited from your fathers with the precious light of Jesus.

You know, Jesus was a man of few words.

When He spoke something, it meant something.

As we look at the portrayal of the cross, there is symbolism in everything that happened.

And the two crosses in the background... >> Wow.

>> ...there was... there were two criminals who died with Christ-- one on His left, one on His right, Him in the middle.

And one of those criminals chose Jesus and the other didn't.

And those two crosses are a sign of the choice that's before each and every one of us as to what we are going to say to Christ.

What a tremendous message.

Amen.

(applause) >> Golly!

I want to just start sobbing.

>> It was good, wasn't it?

>> It was awesome.

>> Did you like it?

>> Yeah.

Do you have to go home?

>> I don't know.

I think so, just to mingle.

>> Hey, Jason?

Can we head on up there?

>> Yeah, I guess.

>> We're going to head on up there.

>> Y'all going up there?

>> Well... well, they're not going yet.

Why can't we hang out a little bit?

>> Just 'cause I want to go up there and see... >> Well, I've been...

I want to talk to people.

>> I'm going to get my nipples pierced.

>> Cody!

>> Come on!

>> I'm going to!

But I wanted to talk to people.

>> Who you talkin' to?

>> I want to say goodbye to people.

>> Bye.

>> See you in the morning.

>> Cody, that was selfish.

>> What?

>> That you were getting mad at me.

>> I didn't get mad.

>> Well, you sighed.

>> You were getting mad at me.

>> Cody, so you didn't love it so much, huh?

>> No.

I was real proud of you.

>> Ugh.

Cody, give me some input, man!

>> It's real good.

>> No!

I want specifics.

>> Good job.

>> I mean, which parts were bad and which parts were good?

>> Oh.

I thought they were all real good.

I'm serious!

>> (sighs): Oh, lord.

>> I thought the whole thing was really good.

>> Cody, Cody, Cody.

>> There's not really a lot of people around here that have nipple piercings.

>> Yeah, I know.

>> I don't want to make too many faces 'cause then people will think I'm a wuss.

>> Oh, God, Cody!

(laughs) >> You don't really have any hair real close to your nipple so we won't have to shave it.

>> This is probably the weirdest part of the whole thing.

>> (laughs) Okay, brother, take in a deep breath.

Now, let it out.

>> God!

Eww!

>> It hurts worse than stretching.

>> Are you okay?

>> It hurts like hell.

>> You're doing good.

You're going to wash these twice a day with antibacterial soap?

>> Yes.

>> Soak 'em twice a day with the sea salt that you get at the pharmacy.

>> Uh-huh.

>> And you don't want to turn them unless you've cleaned them.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> If you turn then when you haven't cleaned 'em first, you take a chance of putting any kind of discharge back into the piercing... >> Mm-hmm.

>> ...and also any kind of bacteria that's on your ring.

So don't turn 'em unless you're, unless you've cleaned them.

>> Okay.

>> But Cody, you know that.

>> Yup.

>> Cody?

>> It don't bother me any.

>> Feels like somebody took a needle... >> And jabbed me in the nipple.

>> ...and stuck it through his nipple.

(laughter) >> If you have any problems or any questions, just give me a call.

>> How much money?

>> That's cool.

Thanks, Cody.

>> Mm-hmm.

All right, see you later, dude.

>> See ya, man.

>> All right, brother, be careful.

>> All right, goodbye.

>> Goodbye.

>> Sorry to keep you waiting, sir.

>> I want two Double Decker Supreme Nachos with nacho cheese and Pintos and cheese.

Can I have that extra?

>> I can have 'em added.

>> It's all right, I don't care.

>> Okay, let's see.

Two Double Decker Tacos Supremes, one medium Pepsi, and you only want it with cheese and beef.

>> Yeah.

(man shouting from kitchen) >> You want nacho or cheddar?

>> Nacho Supreme.

>> Nacho.

>> Nacho cheese?

>> Yeah, nacho... nacho cheese and beef.

Working at Taco Bell's fine.

I get along with people easy.

I'm a people person.

>> And two medium Pepsis.

>> Grab that.

Sorry.

They say I work okay, but I work slowly.

But, you see, I am a perfectionist.

Did you want the Pintos and cheese?

I like to make sure everything's done right, and that takes time.

>> Chris, stock your station!

>> They expect you to do a good job, but get it done quickly.

>> Chris!

>> Yes!

>> Hurry up and get those dishes done.

>> Right.

>> Did you fill up your ice?

>> No.

>> All right, so I need you to go fill up your ice... >> I'm going to do that.

>> And?

>> But, you see, I've got to get used to working now, because I get a $500 check, Social Security, disability, because I was a behavior disorder problem in school.

>> Yeah, that's funny.

>> Oh, God.

>> But once I turn 18, my Social Security is gone.

That's all she wrote.

Out of the fryin' pan and into the fire.

Oh, boy.

Ooh.

I cleaned that toilet.

I cleaned that damn toilet.

>> Thank you.

>> What's next, O mighty one?

>> Did you... clean off the tables?

>> Uh... >> Make sure those tables are clean.

>> Okay, I'm going to take the garbage out.

(whistles) Ooh, that's even worse out here.

(engine revving) >> Oh, hey, Chris.

>> Hey.

>> How you doing today?

>> Fine.

I'm a little tired.

>> Did you work late last night?

>> Mm-hmm.

>> I've wanted to know how you're doing at home with the relationship with your parents, with that whole change and... >> Well... >> ...separation and how you're getting along with each parent now.

>> I don't see them.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> That's why... that's main...

I think mainly, mostly... or mainly the reason why I got the job.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> I'd say right now if I was at home sitting here and I was not working... >> Yeah.

>> ...I would not be as calm as I am now.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> I'd probably be sitting here agitated, constantly moving around, mad.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> Anything.

But where I'm working... and I told them I...

I was willing to work full-time, but where I'm going to school, they won't allow it.

>> Yeah, you want to get your education, 'cause that's going to pay in the long run.

>> Yeah, I know, believe me.

>> What about the responsibilities at home?

Have they increased on you as far as your sister or... >> Yes.

>> How can we help out with that, Chris?

How can we... >> Pay my bills.

>> (laughs) Well, we can give you some ideas and some money-saving tips.

>> Well, you see, now I'm doing...

I'm doing bills right now... basically, uh, all of them: electric, cable, telephone, you name it.

>> Mm-hmm.

Mm-hmm.

>> Which ain't... it ain't that bad.

I mean, the money comes in, I see which... which goes to what and mail 'em out.

That's it.

That's pretty much my job.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> But, well, you see, I also run errands.

I have to be con...

I'm constantly on the road.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> So, I think about the only time I get free time is when I don't sleep.

>> Hmm.

>> Today, I have to leave straight from here to go to my mother's house long enough to take a shower... >> Mm-hmm.

>> ...and then I'm off to work.

And I will not make it in until about 1:00 tomorrow morning.

>> Hmm.

>> I may get enough time to maybe read a chapter or two in my book, go to sleep, get up, same thing over again.

>> Mm-hmm.

Well, since you've got, you know, the responsibilities, maybe we need to look at some things to help you with time management... >> Mm-hmm.

>> ...'cause if you're working all day, you need your sleep at night.

>> Yeah.

>> And you're really taking on a lot of responsibility, but I think that you are ready for it.

>> Well, you see, I figure if I don't start now, I never will.

>> Mm-hmm.

Mm-hmm.

>> So... >> All right.

Well, Chris, I'm glad you came in today.

We've had a good talk.

>> Yeah.

>> Thanks, Chris.

>> Thank you.

>> Well!

Yes.

Whew!

Well... (chuckles) Yes.

(laughs) >> Jessica, I'm going to have to start playing with my shirt off now that I got my nipples pierced.

Why get 'em pierced if nobody's going to see 'em?

>> Cody, you hiding something behind my back?

>> Yeah.

Look at this!

>> Oh, gosh!

Man, it's different, let me tell you.

>> I wanted to show it to you last night.

>> Cody, you are killing me.

You are driving me insane.

Jessica.

>> No, hers ain't pierced.

>> No, and they ain't going to be, either.

>> I think Ray likes me.

I think Ray thinks I'm weird, but he likes me.

Says you got long hair and you look like Manson.

>> He's a kill...

He's a killer, man.

I mean, he's a murderer.

>> Yeah, and you look like him.

(laughter) >> Thanks, Jessica!

>> Well, you do.

>> I think the main thing he likes about me is I make Jessica happy.

Yeah.

I think Ray's worried about Jessica when she turns 18.

He's not really going to have much control over what she does... >> Cody?

>> ...and she can move out as soon as she goes to college.

>> What is that?

>> That is a student lounge.

>> Oh, my God.

It looks very boring.

>> Yeah, I know.

>> Hey, financial aid!

>> Jessica's graduating this year.

She just plans on going to Prestonsburg Community College.

>> Oh, lord.

Eastern Kentucky Barber School?

>> I'm just kind of nervous, like, what's going to happen?

>> I am well prepared.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> Ready for college, Cody.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> Let's see what all they have here.

Human anatomy.

That actually could be good.

Computers, computers.

Look at all the computer crap they've got.

God, they go all the way over to there!

Huh.

Which one would you like, Program Design and Development?

>> (makes noise) >> Microcomputer applications?

What are those?

>> (makes noise) >> (imitates noise) Let's see.

Basic Public Speaking, College Writing.

College Writing!

I like to write.

I would like to do college writing.

>> Hey, Jessica, pay attention to me.

>> Don't worry, Cody.

>> I just want to go home.

>> Don't worry, we'll just be with each other no matter what.

>> I know.

(dogs barking) >> Cody, I think you're worried about my going to college.

>> I don't know.

>> I think you're wonderful.

I love you!

>> Love you.

>> Cody, you really need something that... that you can be able to work at.

>> I want to become a preacher.

>> Do you think you would ever preach at our church?

>> I preached.

>> Wow!

You never told me about this.

>> I didn't think it was important.

(laughs) >> Did anyone come up or anything happen?

>> No.

>> Really?

>> Man, there's so many details to it, to, like, how I got saved.

It's my story.

It's different.

>> You should write a book.

>> My story is...

I should actually talk about it.

My story is different every time 'cause there's so many things that happened that I always forget something.

>> Really?

Yeah.

>> Because you know I'm on the spot when I talk to people.

>> Uh-huh.

>> And when I'm on the spot, I'm nervous and I forget everything and I just kind of try to piece it together.

>> Well, if you wrote a book, what would you say, like, what would be the opening sentence?

>> Hi, my name is Cody.

>> Oh, that's boring.

I think you should put...

I think you should make a song to that.

I honestly think you should.

(guitar playing) >> Okay, now, Kimberly, I know what it's like to be a new student here.

I've had that feeling quite a few times.

>> Uh-huh.

>> Well, let's go find out and see what you're going to have to do, see if they're going to go ahead and let you do your testing today or what.

>> Oh, God.

Chris, I lost my trident.

>> Yeah, come on.

Right now, I need to get you situated.

>> Yeah, uh-huh.

>> Mitzi, this is Kim?

We used to go to the same school.

>> Yeah.

Could you take her down to Jammetta's room and let Jammetta know that she's going to be shadowing until I meet with you?

>> Sure.

>> Hey, Kim?

We'll get you testing today.

>> Oh, my God.

You're crazy.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> This girl, Kimberley Sloane, went out with my brother... and I was friends with her for years.

The problem was, I asked her out before he did.

She turned me down and I was heartbroken.

>> Chris.

It'd been nice if you bought me a pop.

>> I know.

>> Well, I may be struggling with Kimberly now and we're starting to have a relationship again.

Snip these.

>> Yeah.

>> Down the middle.

Problem solved.

But right now, I'm still at round one.

>> I would like... leave this strand... and this strand.

>> I don't know what Kim wants from me right now.

Problem?

She's following me around.

>> You're crazy, Chris.

>> And if we start dating... if something happens, it happens.

If we don't, it won't.

>> I think I poked it in too tight.

>> Just, ah... go back over it and poke it lighter.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> It's always best, if you want to, start with your fingers and work your way across.

>> Uh-huh.

>> Kim, why don't we go party later?

>> Oh, God.

>> I'd like to have us a little fun.

>> Don't make me mad.

>> Yeah.

>> Chris, I've got a bad feeling about your plans.

>> Don't worry about it.

Squeeze in the back.

Plenty of room.

>> Chris.

>> Ah, yeah.

Much better.

By God, I'm going to party.

Hey, let's rock.

>> Oh, my God.

>> Beer, my treat!

(everyone laughs) Don't get too wild.

>> Uh-huh.

>> You're aggravating.

>> Let's get this shindig rolling.

Let's party!

>> Wow, you're crazy.

>> After school, I went to Kim's house.

She wanted somebody to talk to.

She'd been having problems and I'd always listened to her before.

(truck horn) We... we had a wild night.

I've always wanted a type of adventure.

What better way than to figure out the opposite sex?

Then chaos erupted and I couldn't drive home.

(dog barking) (Chris yawning) (phone dialing) >> Good afternoon, the David School.

>> Hi, this is Chris?

>> Hey, Chris!

When are you coming back?

>> Listen.

>> Uh-huh?

>> The reason why I couldn't come into school, I was having some trouble last night?

>> Yeah.

>> And, um...

I didn't get into bed until real late?

>> Um, yeah, so... you know the rules.

>> Yeah, everything's fine now.

>> Okay.

But the early you know the early... >> I didn't know what story to give the David school, because I don't know what Kim has done or said.

I don't even know if she's made the phone call.

So I decided to make it out like it was on myself.

She'll know what it means.

And not on her.

It wasn't exactly a lie-- I did have problems last night.

Yeah, around 10:00 AM.

>> Uh-huh?

>> But I didn't quite get up for it.

But I didn't tell the cold hard facts either.

>> You know the rules, Chris >> Because I was afraid of what Kim might think.

She'd probably think I was trying to save my own ass and get hers in trouble.

>> All right, well, hopefully we'll see you later.

>> Well, probably not.

You see, there's a few errands I have to run.

>> So, we'll see you in the morning, you know, tomorrow?

>> Of course!

>> First thing bright and early?

>> Naturally.

>> All right, well, hopefully we'll see you in the morning?

>> Mm-hmm, okay.

>> All right, bye.

>> Bye.

She bought it.

Excuses do come in handy... once in awhile.

(whistling) >> Hey, hey, back right out there!

Go right back out there with it.

Okay.

>> Okay now, Chris, the student contract says, "I will commit myself to being drug- and alcohol free," and another student got yellow jackets from you.

>> Who said it, about the drugs?

>> Kim has said that... that you did give her either yellow jackets or speed.

>> I...

I... yes, I did it one time, I did, but I...

I have not used them in a long time.

>> That wasn't what you said.

You stood right here, because you never sat down the whole time, and I said, "Chris, this young lady was taken to the emergency room on Saturday evening."

Whether she knew what it was or not, you can't do that.

And you told me, "I'll do whatever it takes to stay awake, and..." >> All I could think about at that moment was, "Where is Kim?"

>> You're making really bad decisions... >> Then Mitzi let's it slide.

Kim was my betrayer.

I mean, what she did that day destroyed me, because everything I'd strived to do: the choir, the newspaper, you name it... Everything I had tried to do for that school got destroyed completely.

>> Carol was here with you.

>> Yes, you did, Chris.

>> Fine, fine.

Okay.

All I want to do is just come back to school.

>> That's not an easy decision on our part.

>> Well, I understand that.

>> I mean, like I said, these things, you know when I questioned you, yes, you admitted that.

>> Yeah, uh... well... >> And I... you can buy these across the counter.

>> Anybody can.

It doesn't matter.

>> But they will burst your heart, and he did share them with another student.

>> Christopher, you're screwing up.

>> Whether she knew what they were or not.

>> She knew what they were.

>> Well... >> She knew very well.

>> She got them from you.

Your decisions are getting you into some deep trouble, and you don't seem to want to take that responsibility that, "I did that.

I made a bad decision."

I'm warning you, Chris.

You're losing' too much sleep.

You're doing things that you don't normally do and that will happen when you lose sleep.

>> Chris.

>> Sheila, what Chris says he can't sleep at home.

>> Well, not most times.

>> This is what you told me.

He can't sleep at home.

He can't sleep at your place.

>> Mmm.

>> Bulls * *t!

>> Christopher, Jesus!

Tell the truth.

>> I just don't...

Damn it, I don't feel comfortable.

>> I would really expect some respect for my teachers here.

>> Sorry, sorry.

>> And myself and your mother.

>> I...

I just don't...

I don't feel comfortable sleeping there.

>> Chris.

>> He says that he has to get all the hours that he can at Taco Bell because you need money to fix your car up.

>> No.

I've been loaning him money.

>> I've been basically saying things to save my own skin.

>> Why Chris?

>> I can sit here and talk right now, but I have no clue myself.

>> But I got to thinking of what could be going on.

He did this last year.

He quit the last three days of school.

He gets to the point where he's almost successful.

>> And then he gives up.

>> And then he gives up.

And I don't know how to get past that.

But I think his thought is that, "If my mom wants me to finish school, I'll finish school."

>> I do want him to finish school.

>> Because he's made the comment-- "If my mom wants me to do this, I can do it."

>> Well, he knows what I want.

I wouldn't be here right now trying to get him back in.

>> But you need to realize too, Chris, there's everybody out there trying' to juggle all this, too.

You're not the only person in the world that's trying to hold down a job, a life, and school.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> You're not.

>> I know.

>> And you do, you tend to go what's comfortable for you.

And comfort is, "I can't do it because my dad drinks too much, I can't do it because my mom's moved out..." >> I don't know what it is.

I'll use any excuse it takes.

But that's going to stop.

All right?

If I have to be truthful, and I guess if I have to be blunt, I'm going to be blunt.

>> I'd rather for you to do that than throw up all these... >> Excuses.

>> I'd rather work with reality.

And you would, too.

>> Christopher, talk to Taco Bell, tell them quit working you so late.

>> No, I'm done.

>> And if you can't, I will!

>> I'm done with it.

>> So exactly how long do I have to wait to see if I get to return or not?

>> I want to meet with the teachers and the director first.

>> All right.

>> Make sure where we're at, Chris.

I mean, if you really commit to helping yourself, and saying, "This is my life, I can make some choices."

>> All right.

>> So we'll meet in the morning at 8:00.

>> Yeah.

>> I'll talk to the staff, see what they expect, and I want you to make some choices.

>> All right.

>> We'll see what we can work out.

>> Chris, you take it easy.

We'll meet in the morning at 8:00.

>> Yeah.

>> Thank you, Chris.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> Why don't you talk to Taco Bell, see if you...?

>> That's it, I'm going to quit.

Oh, yeah, and that (bleep) about the pills-- bull.

>> But listen, Christopher.

>> You made me say that I gave her those pills when you know for a fact her boyfriend did it.

>> Just don't fight.

>> The only reason you wanted me to say this is so I could stay in school, collect my S.S.I., and you get your damn payday.

>> I'm sorry.

>> I know that.

>> But you know yourself, when you started working, they worked you like four hours a day.

>> Yeah.

>> And you done fine.

Next thing you know, you're working till 12.

>> They say I... most times I have to be there for front register because someone can't come in.

So I ain't even going to bother...

I'm going to quit.

That's it.

>> Well, let me talk to them.

>> No, no need.

If... if I got to go for an education, I'm going all out on it.

End of story >> Okay.

You're so mad you can't see straight.

>> Why don't you get off my ass!

♪ ♪ >> Damn it!

♪ Well, I remember as a boy I'd run and play ♪ ♪ Sometimes in those golden bales I'd lay ♪ ♪ Life seemed to be so much better way back then, ♪ ♪ Now it's like a dream that won't end ♪ (sniffing) ♪ Take me back, to the years when I was young ♪ ♪ Take me back to the years when I was young ♪ ♪ Let me live on those golden memories ♪ ♪ Take me back to the years when I was young ♪ ♪ Take me back to the years when I was young ♪ (train horn) >> Cody I have to be home, which I doubt will be... pleasant.

>> Your mom, she's trying to get him... get your dad to leave, ain't she?

>> Yeah, but she's not doing it in the nicest way she could.

>> Well, how else could you do it?

>> I don't know how you could do it, but how she is doing it isn't working, so... >> So, when's... your mom and dad getting a divorce?

>> I don't know.

>> It might be better off.

>> It is better off.

>> It's good that you're looking at it like that.

>> I've been looking at it like that.

>> I think you're a little too rough on your mom, though.

>> I know, but it's just it... it really makes me mad because no one is thinking about me upstairs trying to sleep or anything.

>> They are being selfish about it, but she's not having the easiest time right now.

>> I know.

>> So you're going to have to be a little bit more understanding and not jump onto her so much.

>> Uh-huh.

>> Because that's the last thing she needs right now.

>> I try not to, I really do.

It wears on my nerves because I don't get any sleep, and they constantly fight, and I get so tired of it.

And I usually am a really happy person, it's just like if you can't even say anything to them without them mentioning what they're going through... >> Well, I was mad at your dad last night.

>> You're still mad at him.

>> Yeah.

>> You're just mad at what he does.

>> Well, your dad's good as far as a friend goes, because he's never back-stabbed me or anything.

It's just, he's so... lousy father and a horrible husband.

I mean, he could've been a worse father.

>> Well, let's just quit talking about it.

I probably brought it up, I'm sorry, but let's just quit talking about it.

>> Okay.

(train horn blowing) >> Hey, Amy, I quit my job.

>> I heard.

Why'd you quit?

>> So that way I could work on my schoolwork more.

>> Hey, Chris, can I ask you a question?

Why are you going back to school?

>> Sometimes education's the best way to go.

>> Yeah, mm-hmm.

>> Randall.

>> What is it, memaw?

>> When are you going in to file for child support.

>> That's where I've got to be.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> Yeah, I've got to be there at 9:00.

>> Yeah.

>> Randall is filing for child support because he found it out watching Court TV shows like Matlock, that he could get plenty of money.

>> Oh, yeah.

Is that right?

>> And he already made his brags that he would have plenty of money for booze.

>> Right in here!

>> Well, I can't say that, Randall.

>> And I don't know what time I'll be back, but feed my pig.

>> Oh, hush, you're drunk!

>> If you don't, he'll come out of there.

Chris, let's roll.

>> Yeah, I know.

God, I have a meeting with Mitzi.

>> Chris, you worry too much.

>> Yeah.

Hey, Randall?

>> Huh?

>> Take this three dollars right here and pick up Daniel's glasses.

>> Let's roll, I've got to be there at 9:00.

(car squeals, beeps) >> It's just 7:30!

>> Uh-huh.

>> I got time to kill.

They finally fixed these tracks; was a little rough there for awhile.

>> Yeah.

>> Chris, there's your bus.

>> Oh yeah.

>> Chris, I used to go to school right there.

>> Yeah.

>> Right there, Chris.

We used to live right here.

>> Really?

>> Yeah.

You don't remember that?

>> Um, no.

>> I don't guess you did.

You wasn't even around.

>> Ugh.

>> You wasn't even around then.

>> Hey, Pop, if Mitzi will allow me back into school, I'll be as happy as can be!

>> I told you, Chris!

Ho, boy.

>> Bye, Chris.

>> Well, we'll see you this evening.

>> Okay.

>> Just pick... >> Hey, 3:00.

>> Yeah, at the Chevron.

Hoo, boy.

>> Chris.

What I did, I did go to each teacher and the director.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> Chris, they're ready to give you another chance at you being successful.

>> Thank you.

>> So we're going to support you and this is going to be the first year we end it with the last day of school with Chris with us!

>> Great.

Yeah.

>> And it is up to you today to start making up your make-up work and get you back on the track.

Okay?

>> Yeah.

>> Chris, I wanted to ask you about your job.

>> I quit.

>> Did you do that yesterday?

>> Soon as I got to my mother's house.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> Me and my mother had a big discussion.

>> It's okay.

We can get through that.

>> Yeah, from here on out, it's going to be blunt.

>> That's the only way you should operate, Chris.

>> Yeah, I hope so.

>> Okay, it's going to be a busy day, Chris.

>> Thank you.

>> He's such a neat kid.

So much potential, all bottled up and don't know what to do with it.

>> Hey, Jessica, I looked at the schedule.

>> Uh-huh?

>> The earliest time the Greyhound bus leaves is like either 3:00 or 4:00 in the morning that Wednesday?

>> Uh-huh.

>> I say we should after the graduation ceremony get us one or two hours of sleep and go down to the festival.

>> Really, you looked that up?

>> Yep.

>> 3:00 or 4:00 in the morning?

>> Yep.

And we should leave on that cause.... Because otherwise, when leave then we're not going to get there until about 6:00, 7:00 in the evening, anyways.

>> Yeah.

>> So we got... we need to leave.

>> Okay, that's fine.

>> As early as possible.

>> That's fine.

>> I really want to go to the Christian festival this summer.

>> Cody, I just want to be able to go somewhere and have fun.

>> Hello?

>> Hey, Mom.

>> Hi, kid.

Hi, Cody.

>> Did you call Liz today?

>> Yeah, I did and y'all ain't going to like it.

I gave her all the information-- how long you were going to stay and how you were going to get there and all that stuff.

And she said she just thought it was way too dangerous, and because she's not Cody's guardian, she was afraid to let him go and that, if something would happen to him, she doesn't think that either one of you is mature enough to handle it.

And so... she just wasn't in agreement with it.

>> Well, that just makes me mad.

(Cody burps) >> Excuse you.

>> You know, I was looking forward to it.

>> Well, I'm sorry, Jessica, but next year, Cody is going to be 18 years old and you guys can go then.

You know, it's... >> Yeah, but you can't just run out just because you're 18 years old.

>> I can, because I don't have no guardian.

>> Cody don't have to worry about guardianship.

>> It didn't bother me a lot that I couldn't go.

Because I'm not 18 yet and Liz could get sued if something happened to me, because she's not my legal guardian.

>> Well, where's Cody going to be?

>> Well, I don't know.

>> I can rent him the garage.

>> I just figure I'll be able to do things whenever I do turn 18.

>> She said it was really between Cody and his aunt.

>> Because I'll be legal and nobody has guardianship of me.

>> I don't know what to tell you.

>> There's no use for Cody to go back and start any arguments with Liz or anything.

>> I'm not telling him to!

>> I mean, I'm just trying to say, you know, I can understand Liz's point of view here.

>> Now, Jessica, now you can't have everything in life you want, you might as well face that.

>> Oh, sweet Lord, no.

>> Well... >> It's just the first time she's not got what she wants.

>> Now, don't say that, because I know that's not true.

>> That's not true.

>> I'm just teasing, all right, you two.

>> There's a lot of things you can count on, but I'm telling you there's a lot of things that will disappoint you, too.

>> And that's the way we should look at life, kids.

>> No, it's just the thing is that you're going to have disappointments in life, Jessica.

You've got to learn to deal with them.

>> What I'm saying is that was at least the for-sure thing I knew that I was going to be able to do.

>> Jessica, you got to realize that you're not experienced enough in the world to start out going on a thousand-mile trip.

>> I wasn't even allowed to spend the night at Jenny Wiley.

>> You never even mentioned that nobody was spending the night at Jenny Wiley, if you're talking about after prom.

>> I'm talking about when they all camped.

>> Oh, you mean when they all... with all those boys?

>> What are they going to do?

>> The boys ain't going to do nothing, Jessica.

It just doesn't look right to spend the night with five or six boys.

>> I'll never learn anything.

You go, "I want you to learn something."

>> Just her with five or six boys?

>> Well, it would have been... >> Well, it don't matter how many boys were there, she's my girlfriend if anybody (inaudible).

>> Well, I know that, Cody, it don't make... Jessica going to spend the night with five boys and one girl?

>> Everybody would say, "That girl, she spent the night "with five or six boys on that lake, what kind of upbringing has she had?"

>> I don't care.

>> I care.

I care what people think about you.

>> But I think she's more upset, because she figured she finally be able to go and do something, and then she can't.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> Would she be able to go to Lexington with me if I go see my family?

>> How long are you going to stay?

>> I don't know, it just depends how quick I can get a ride back.

I usually don't like staying there.

>> Do you talk to them any?

>> I talk to my dad's side.

I haven't talked to my mom's side in about two years.

I don't know what happened; they just lost touch with me.

>> Why don't you try to talk to them or...?

>> I try to.

>> Now, Cody, you are going to go see your daddy's family?

>> Yeah.

>> I am sure that they will enjoy seeing you.

>> Hopefully.

Is it supposed to be any warmer tomorrow?

>> I think it is.

I think it's supposed to start warming up this weekend.

>> That's good.

>> Well, what kind of automobile are you going to ask your family for?

>> I want a truck.

Actually, I'd like to have a full-size truck, one I can haul equipment in.

>> Well, I hope they get you what you want.

>> Well, yeah.

>> Are you planning on staying at your grandmother or are you coming back home?

>> I'd rather come home.

It just depends on everybody's schedule.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> Well, I better get going.

>> Well, you have fun.

>> All right.

I'll see you later.

>> Okay, hon.

>> Bye-bye.

>> Bye.

Take care.

>> All right.

>> Bye-bye.

>> Bye.

>> See you tonight.

>> Oh, God.

♪ ♪ >> Hey, Cody, how are you doing, hon?

>> Pretty good, grandma.

>> I've got to go downstairs and work.

Let me show you what I'm doing down here.

Got a big, big old job.

Look at this.

We've got a big time job at the bank.

Draperies all around these rooms, and it's these fancy, fancy window treatments right here.

>> I guess I like seeing my grandma.

But I get homesick pretty easy when I go down to Lexington.

There's too many bad memories there.

>> Three of them are already hung.

>> I'll say this is giving you a little bit of money here.

>> Yes.

>> This fabric's pretty nice.

Expensive?

>> I know this... yes, yes.

Oh, whenever you can get your driver's license, which will be in April... >> Yeah.

>> Jerome's going to see if he can find you a car.

>> Uh-huh.

>> Not an expensive car.

>> I don't...

I don't want an expensive car.

>> A $1,500 car.

>> That's good enough for me.

>> But, you know, he can find you a pretty good car for that kind of money, so... >> Tell him that I prefer...

I mean, I'm not going to be picky, but I prefer a truck.

>> Well, that's what I was thought you was going to say.

That's fine.

>> But anyway, you have to sign a paper, saying that you're okay with the way your money's been handled.

>> Mm-hmm, okay.

>> And the money that's left over.

>> My grandma said she had a piece of paper she wanted me to sign stating that I know where all my inheritance money is and how that's been spent.

>> But you have to sign a paper, Cody.

All right?

>> That sounds good to me.

I said okay, but I didn't really realize what she was wanting me to sign.

>> You spending the night, Cody?

>> No, I got to go to school tomorrow.

>> Okay.

>> Well, when I left my grandma's, I realized I don't want to sign it, because they have not told me how they've spent my money.

The only thing I've heard was around Christmastime, they told me I was almost broke.

So I want to know if my family had spent money that they weren't supposed to spend.

That's my inheritance and my social security.

(tires screeching) (car door opens and shuts) Well, when I got home I wrote this letter to my family.

(computer keys clicking) "Dear family, I will not give you a letter of release "because I am suspicious that you guys even need this letter "to get me my money.

However, we're not going to tell anyone."

Man, I don't like this.

All it does is get me mad.

All right... "Dear family, I have suspected something ever since you told me "I was almost broke last Christmas.

"From the money I have been saving, "this should not have been.

"So here's what I want before I get you your letter.

"I want all records of how much money I have.

"I also want all of my cancelled checks.

"And I am going to the social security office to see "what my rights are, and I am going to get this "under investigation.

I want to know exactly how much money I have, "and if I have any doubt in my mind that the amount is wrong, "I will take this to my lawyer.

Sincerely, Cody Perkins."

>> This is $11.75 going to be there tomorrow by noon, express.

>> I know my family if they had spent money they weren't supposed to spend, they wouldn't give me a straight answer.

>> Tracking number?

>> But then when my grandmother called me the other day, trying to get me to sign this letter for like the third time, and she said something about how we just won't tell nobody; we'll keep it a secret, which makes you suspicious.

Thank you.

So I'm not going to sign Jack.

I sent them that letter to state that I was serious, and I want to know where my money was.

Oh, God.

>> Don't start jerking your cigarettes out.

That is for the smoking area.

>> I'd smoke it.

>> I been smoking since I was six.

Both those things make me sick.

>> I quit from about one point.

>> I should quit, but I never will.

>> Right now all I want is a little nicotine.

>> Chris, you need to quit now.

>> You would bring that up.

>> You've got to be kidding.

>> Just about everybody here smokes.

>> Not everybody.

Would you just put that out?

>> What?

What I do?

Mary showed up one day during recess.

>> Quit now.

>> And she comes over and made up a formal conversation.

Is it legal?

>> No, it's not, Chris, you need to quit.

>> I found it odd at first, but I liked how she'd done it.

It was actually kind of sweet.

>> Yeah, oh, whip you hard.

>> She goes, "How is everything?"

I said, "Well, it's cool."

She goes, "Do you drive?"

I say, "Yeah, I do."

She says, "Okay, what do you do on the weekends?"

I said, "Basically, sit at home or work."

"Wouldn't you be taking your girlfriend out somewhere?"

I caught that.

And I said, "No, I'm not seeing anybody."

>> Oh, I wrote a new song!

I wrote a new song this morning!

>> Oh, did you?

>> Yes, I did.

>> What was it?

>> I ain't tell you.

>> Hey, Chris, are you going home or are you just staying?

>> Okay, I'll tell you the title of it.

>> All right.

>> "You know I love you."

>> Hey!

Then I guess I just got a crack of boldness or something.

I tried to call you.

>> You did not try to call me.

>> Yes, I did.

I asked her what she would be doing Saturday.

She said, "I'll be down there at the flea market."

I said, "It's a date," and we started dating.

I just want to share my feelings with somebody.

I just don't want to be alone.

Mary's kind, she's sweet, she's able to keep up a conversation, and that's what I need.

>> You better behave.

I'll be mad.

>> I'll be here every day.

(bell rings) >> Well, I'll see you later.

>> Yeah.

♪ ♪ ♪ I'm going on down to the willow ♪ ♪ Stick my soul up in the sun ♪ ♪ Gonna shout my troubles to the Lord ♪ ♪ I done made it to the promised land ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ I done crossed over ♪ ♪ I done crossed over ♪ ♪ I done crossed over ♪ ♪ I made it to the promised land ♪ ♪ ♪ >> Hi, Mary.

>> Hey, Chris.

>> You told me come up, so I come up.

>> Okay, come on.

Sing that song that what's-his-name was singing.

>> We'll just have a big sing-along!

>> Okay.

>> ♪ Johnny's daddy, taking him fishing ♪ ♪ When he was eight years old ♪ ♪ Little girl comes through the front gate ♪ ♪ Holding a fishing pole ♪ >> Chris!

>> I like the perm but, hold on!

>> (laughs) Do that again!

>> I can't do that again; I get dizzy every time I do it!

>> Okay, Chris.

No little, Chris.

>> All I can say is I love Mary to death and she's told me she loves me.

>> Okay.

>> And that makes me the happiest person in the world.

>> On... on three, we going to say Johnny.

One, two, three.

♪ Johnny's daddy's taking him fishing ♪ ♪ When he was eight years old ♪ (dog barking) >> Christopher, just go tell your girlfriend that she can't keep you there as late because you're missing school.

I bailed you out over the job; I ain't going to bail you out over the girlfriend.

You're awful close to screwing up.

>> Nobody overslept.

>> Then why were you in bed?

>> Nobody woke me.

>> And not up?

Mom said she tried twice.

>> 7:15?

>> Yeah.

>> 7:15?

>> Yeah.

School don't start until 8:00 or 8:30.

What's the problem?

Somebody's too tired to get out of bed and don't want to admit it!

I'd do the same, Christopher.

I don't make 50 trips to go back there and run you out of bed.

You're almost 18 year old, you shouldn't even be told to get out of bed.

You should have an alarm clock back there and wake your own butt up.

>> One that worked.

>> You've had plenty of money to buy one.

Right back there's one!

He don't get out, get his!

Wake yourself up!

You can't blame somebody because they couldn't get you out of bed.

Oh, just get dressed.

Get dressed.

>> Bah.

Bite me.

>> Christopher.

(car engine starts) (crash) >> (Bleep)!

(dogs barking) >> Get your ass down to that house.

>> (bleep).

>> What's the problem?

>> I'm tired of fooling with you.

>> I'll beat the fire out of you.

>> Shut up!

>> He's doing exactly what he did on the job; his ass won't go to bed to save his life.

>> Shut up!

>> And he won't get out of bed, so he's got to lay every excuse in the book on whoever it can take to cover him.

Now he screwed his car up, he's walking.

>> To hell with my mother!

Most of this stuff that my mother talks about school... well, you know, I should stay, I should attend, it's a put on.

(dog barking) >> Hush.

Get in the house, Fido.

>> The only reason she did that is because if I'm not in school, my S.S.I.

goes, my mother is screwed.

>> I got mad.

I held my breath but I got mad.

I could not believe the garbage he talked.

I told him to get his butt to the house, he was making an idiot of himself.

That's exactly what I told him.

That I wasn't going to put up with it and if he didn't straighten up, he wouldn't never have a car, because I'd jerk the keys from him permanently.

And that was the end of it; he come to the house, after he cooled off, so many hours later or so.

Then, I got an apology that night.

He just says, "I'm sorry."

That's it, "I'm sorry."

>> I mean, I just don't know why all this happens near the end of school.

It always does; something happens.

I don't get the grade, I get fed up, I don't know what it is.

And maybe Mitzi's right.

Maybe I am afraid of succeeding, I don't know.

But tomorrow I'm going to go to school.

I know that Mary's going to be mad at me, because she asked me, "Saturday," she said, "why haven't you gotten your homework done?"

I said, "I'll be straight with you, I've been here with you."

I know that everybody wants me to get my education.

I know they want me to be all these things, but I can only be one thing, myself.

But it don't even know what myself is anymore.

I don't even know what that means.

God help me.

>> Cody, so your grandmother is very angry.

>> Yeah, she says she's through with me.

>> Did you talk to the Social Security people?

>> Mm-hmm.

My family is mad.

>> Did they get that letter?

>> Oh, yeah, they got the letter.

Theresa said, "I've given up on him.

I don't want nothing else to do with him."

And my grandma's pissed, my grandpa's pissed.

>> At you?

>> Yeah.

They said I'm ungrateful and all this stuff.

I don't care.

And she goes... she told Liz, said, "You tell him to call me as soon as he gets home from school," my grandma did?

I'm not going to call her.

She can call me.

But I went down to the Social Security office.

They're completely on my side.

They said, you know, I have 100% rights-- every right in the world-- to know how much money I have, because that's what my letter was.

I told them before they get a letter of release from me, I want to know how much I have.

And you read the letter-- you know that's basically what it's saying, you know?

I want to know all the receipts and everything: how much money has been spent, how much money hasn't been.

And what they're supposed to do is they're supposed to turn it in to Social Security, okay?

And you know all the money that I get to spend gets turned in to Social Security and then they reissue it in my name.

>> You think that your granny will get over it?

>> Maybe.

I don't know, my family holds grudges.

They might get over it, they might not.

>> Why?

What do they see that you did wrong?

>> They think I'm ungrateful, I guess, for all they've done for me; you know, kick me out of the house and basically giving up on me.

>> Why does it always have to rain?

>> God, that water's dripping all over you.

>> God, that's wet!

>> Can you give me a cigarette?

>> I quit from about 1:00 till now.

I'm not going to buy any more.

>> You go, girl.

(laughter) >> Chris, you need to get your make-up work in.

How much more do you lack, Chris?

>> Not too many more.

>> Everything's got to be in by Friday.

>> Chapter 33: I need the definitions that begin with tropism?

Draw, label, define-- page 593 or 573, one.

Chapter 33, page 583, study questions.

>> Okay, well, the deadline's Friday.

>> Yeah.

>> And Friday you get a zero.

Okay.

Do you have a check-off sheet, Chris?

>> Mm-hmm.

>> I need to see it.

>> Let me see if I can find it again.

Here.

>> Thank you.

>> I've already turned in my study questions.

>> That's what this is.

>> That's objective.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> See, you also have study questions for 565, as well.

>> No, I don't.

>> You should have.

>> I did it last night-- not last night, but I did it.

>> It's not on the paper... >> Should be.

>> It's not.

>> There they are.

>> I didn't...

I'm saying, it's not.

>> It would be this one, the one that's completely marked out.

>> Okay.

>> I'd lay odds... >> Okay, well, very good.

(bell rings) I'm proud of you, Chris.

All right, everything's got to be in by Friday.

>> Hi, Mary.

>> Ooh, you better behave.

>> I'm getting a haircut.

>> You better, Chris.

>> If I had to be someone different inside, might as well look different on the outside.

>> Okay.

>> Mom, guess what.

I got a haircut.

>> Yeah, it looks a lot better.

>> Thanks.

Mom, we need to get that car fixed.

>> I don't know, Christopher, you've killed that car.

>> Bullshit.

>> Jesus.

>> I've not killed that car.

>> Yes, you have.

>> No, honestly.

I'm thinking it's bad gas.

Water in the tank?

Because it won't do it.

>> Check the oil in it lately?

>> Huh?

>> Yesterday I turned 18, and I am finished with S.S.I.

Might as well say 150.

>> Yeah.

Chris, you can't go to school plus live with me and work.

>> My mom is renting another place and I'm fed up here, so I'm going to go live with my mother.

>> I'd rather be living alone, but right now this is the best I can do.

>> Bye.

>> My mother's taking care of all the red tape.

And now that I'm 18, I'm going to be on the lease.

I just basically contribute cash.

You know, I did pass my classes.

So I did not fail.

But right now, I need a break from the school.

I have to work.

And I'm going up to the David School to tell Mitzi I'm sorry, but I will not be returning.

She's going to probably be a little upset or angry, but it's something I want to do.

(knock at door) Hello?

>> Come in.

Hey, Chris.

Whoa, haircut.

Looks good on you!

Have a seat!

>> Well, actually I do have some questions, but if you want to go ahead and do this, this I fine.

>> You want to get your questions off your chest now?

>> Actually, I do.

I will not be attending David next year... >> You just broke my heart, you know that?

>> I'm sorry.

>> Maybe by the time we get finished with here, you might have some options.

>> You see, the thing is, I'm moving out and I'm going to be moving in with my mother, but you see the job is full-time.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> And you see, the only way I can cover the rent and utilities is it has to be full-time.

>> Where are you working at now?

>> Little Caesar's, I start today.

>> And what are you going to be doing there?

>> Delivery.

But, you see, I know if I go full-time, I'll not be able to, you know, keep going to school and... >> You are standing right now at 16.5 credits.

>> Really?

>> Mm-hmm.

>> How many do I need to pass, or to graduate?

>> Well, now, the David school usually requires 24.

>> 24.

>> The state requires 22.

>> Uh-huh.

>> So really, if you went this year, you would be able to look at a graduation with 23 credits.

You've gone from the first year that you were actually with us to third grade level math to...

In May, you tested out on a tenth-grade level math.

So you have really, really improved.

So, this is your, basically your senior year.

>> Can I get a copy of this?

>> Yeah, I'll go in, make a copy on the copy machine.

>> I just, you know, I honestly didn't think I'd go up that high.

What was my reading?

>> 129 plus.

>> Which is...?

>> Means you're 12th grade, ninth month.

>> Yow.

>> I know.

>> I went from a 9.9.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> To a 12.0.

Wow.

>> What I'm saying is it is so hard to get you to the finish line, but, Chris, it is that close.

>> I know it.

I know it.

God, I know it.

>> And you know, having a job and driving a pizza delivery truck, that's fine.

Any kind of job is fine.

But what if it doesn't work, your car breaks down and then you've sacrificed this part of getting your diploma to the finish line, and then you're going to take another minimum wage job?

>> I know.

>> When you could get better than that, and you deserve better than that.

It would probably be, you know, a year.

You would have to be focused and do your work and I know sometimes that gets real difficult for you, but I think you found that we'll work with you and help you every way we can.

>> Well, I'd like to try, but the thing is, it's all a part... right now it's all a part of money.

You see, I'm going to be moving out soon.

I'm supposed to be moved into the new place by this weekend.

>> What happens when the car breaks down?

>> I am screwed.

Can't put it no straighter.

>> Well, let's, you know, let's have some more concrete plans than that, because that's a good chance of happening.

>> Oh, the car is junk.

I'm not going to lie to you, it's junk.

>> But if you had your high school diploma, you could go to college, get money to go to college on.

>> Mm-hmm.

I'd like to.

Honestly, I would.

>> Well, that's all you need is to do it, Chris, is to say that, "I am going to do this."

>> Saying it and doing it is two different things.

>> I understand that.

Sometimes it is very hard when finances are involved in it.

It makes it more difficult.

>> But, you see, in order to come to school, I'd have to be part-time, which would really kill me, honestly, with, you know, the bills and so forth.

>> But if you came to school full-time and did your work while you were at school... >> I know.

>> And then go to your job.

>> But you see, that still leaves the job at part time.

>> You can get in eight hours after school.

Think about it.

>> I could ask them to see if I could work evenings, nights.

>> Why don't you tell them today, "Look, this is my senior year of high school.

I am really wanting to finish that."

>> So I am a senior?

>> Mm-hmm.

Yep.

>> Thank you, God.

>> So we're looking at May graduation.

Okay, Chris, call me Monday.

I'll be down there.

I have to order pizzas to get you up here.

>> Go for it!!

>> See you later, Chris.

>> All right, see you later.

>> Aflac, Aflac.

(ducks quacking) Come on, come on.

Come up here, you're killing me, come on, let's go.

Come on.

Come on, Aflac.

>> Cody, I would like to get married.

>> I don't know.

I'm afraid of talking about marriage right now.

>> I would like to get married but Cody's afraid of marriage for some reason.

>> My dad had six wives.

>> He's a man.

But I don't know.

>> My dad had six wives and you don't understand why I'm afraid of marriage?

>> That was your dad.

There's a difference between you and your dad.

>> A lot of people tell me I act like my dad and look like my dad.

>> That doesn't mean you are your dad, though.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> Who was your dad's first wife?

>> Theresa...

I don't know her last name.

>> Do you think that God put them together?

>> No, that's what sex does.

>> Okay.

And do you think that God put us together?

>> Yes.

>> Okay, then.

>> I'm still scared!

>> ♪ God only makes the angels like you ♪ >> Okay.

♪ Well I know he made one when he made you ♪ >> Will you ride that other thing with me?

>> What?

>> Rocket and the thing.

I like you.

>> Love you.

>> Love you, too.

>> I've got to go poop.

>> Go ahead.

♪ ♪ Cody?

>> Yeah.

>> Where are we going to go now?

>> I don't know.

>> I don't know either.

♪ ♪ >> Okay, guys, come on, guys.

Can everybody come over here and kind of sit on the hill together, please?

Kind of... kind of get together?

Come on, guys.

>> Hey, hey, Dustin, go right there... >> You need to sit together so I won't have to yell.

Come on, get closer together.

>> Buddy, it's up to her.

>> Chris, you have to... you have to be quiet.

>> Yeah, okay.

>> And this is serious.

>> Shh.

I need you all to be quiet.

I've got a very difficult thing to tell you, guys.

It's not been an easy decision for me, and especially you students that have been with me the last three years-- as of yesterday I resigned, and yeah... And I just wanted the opportunity to say bye today.

I'll keep in touch with you guys and find out how you're doing, but it's something that I need to do and I have to do.

You know, I'll miss you guys, and I hope you don't forget me.

I hope I've made some impact along the way.

If you need any help with anything, my phone number's in the phone book.

Don't hesitate to call, especially if you want to get to college and make your life a little better, because I want to help you guys and I just want to say that I'll miss you guys... a lot.

Thanks.

Chris, we'll be riding herd, listening to what's going on with you.

You've got to make it.

>> Yeah.

>> You've got to make it.

We got a lot invested.

>> Consider it done.

>> Promise me that.

>> I promise.

>> Because I'll come down there and say, "Now, you promised me."

Cody... where's Cody?

>> I'm right here.

>> Keep on.

Keep on, you're going to make it, too.

Thanks for all your help.

I've never had to call on you you haven't said, "Yeah, I'll help you out."

I really appreciate it.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> You girls, especially, too.

Thanks for all the comments that you've made.

Where's Alison?

Alison wants to be a doctor, and I told her the only thing that I worried about: if I called her office and made an appointment she wouldn't show up, so, Shaina, you're so much like me, I did the same road.

I had a baby very young and had a tough time finishing school, but I made it.

>> Yeah.

>> So hang in there, okay?

You need to do it for your baby.

Andrea, you're another one.

I still see you on the back of that truck the first week in school, unloading that sheet rock and singing about the boys, so... (sobs) So, I'm sorry; so many faces, so many memories.

You know.

Michael, thank you for letting me remember how it's like to deal with a four-year-old.

(laughter) >> I owe you one of these before you go, too.

It ain't right.

I'm leaving with you.

Where we going?

>> Florida.

>> Okay, let's go.

(sobs) >> Stay out of the pond, okay?

Hey, Cody, you're a neat kid, you know?

Hang in there.

>> I will.

>> Chris.

>> Mitzi.

>> Wow, Chris, what changes we've been through, huh?

You've got to graduate.

>> I promise.

>> I will keep track of you, too.

>> I figured you would.

>> And I love you, too.

>> ♪ I remember as a boy I'd run and play ♪ ♪ Sometimes in those golden fields I'd lay ♪ >> I will keep track of you.

>> ♪ Life seemed to be so much better way back then ♪ ♪ Now it's like a dream that never ends ♪ (bus honking) ♪ Take me back, to the years when I was young ♪ ♪ Take me back to the years when I was young ♪ (honking continues) ♪ Let me live on those golden memories ♪ ♪ Take me back to the years when I was young ♪ ♪ Take me back to the years when I was young ♪ ♪ Take me back to the years when I was young ♪ >> NARRATOR: Tomorrow night, on David Sutherland's Country Boys.

The story of Chris and Cody continues.

>> Oh boy.

>> NARRATOR: Two boys, struggling with who they are.

>> Everything was crashing before my eyes.

I wished I hadn't quit school.

I felt awful, like a frigging failure.

>> NARRATOR: And who they could become.

>> I just want to do something for God that's more than just being a good Christian.

>> NARRATOR: The story of their hopes and dreams.

>> I think it would be cool to be a preacher.

>> NARRATOR: And their determination to beat the odds.

>> To some people, this diploma is nothing more than a piece of fancy paper.

But it means a lot more to me.

This diploma means that I have a future.

(cheers and applause) >> NARRATOR: Tomorrow night, the final chapter of David Sutherland's Country Boys.

(train horn blaring) ♪ ♪ >> ANNOUNCER: Explore more about the story of Chris and Cody at our website.

You'll find interviews with the boys and filmmaker David Sutherland's account of how he came to this story.

More about the David School, special readings and essays, including the importance of caring adults in the lives of young people, and why teenagers are turning to religion.

Plus more about the film's music, ask questions of Chris and Cody, and watch this program again online, then join the discussion at pbs.org.

Country Boys is available on videocassette or DVD.

To order, call PBS Home Video at 1-800-PLAY-PBS.

♪ ♪