RESPONSIBILITY

 

(Scene: A young boy, JOSH, is playing in the park with his little sister, EMMA. Their father, PETER, is sitting on a nearby bench, watching them.)

JOSH: (to Emma) Come on, Emma, let's go climb that big tree over there.

EMMA: (excitedly) Okay!

(Josh and Emma start climbing the tree, with Peter keeping a close eye on them.)

PETER: (to himself) I can't believe how grown up Josh is getting. He's really taken on the role of big brother to Emma.

(Josh and Emma reach the top of the tree and start playing.)

PETER: (calling out) Be careful up there, kids!

JOSH: (to Emma) Don't worry, Emma, I've got you. I'll always protect you.

(A strong wind gusts through the park, causing the tree branches to sway.)

EMMA: (fearfully) Josh, I'm scared!

JOSH: (reassuringly) It's okay, Emma. I won't let anything happen to you.

(Josh helps Emma down from the tree and they both safely reach the ground.)

PETER: (proudly) That's my boy. He's really stepping up and taking on his responsibilities as a big brother.

(Josh and Emma run over to Peter and give him a hug.)

PETER: (to Josh) You know, son, you're not just a big brother to Emma. You're also a role model. You have to be a good example for her, and always make the right choices.

JOSH: (thoughtfully) I understand, Dad. I want to be the best big brother and role model I can be.

PETER: (smiling) That's all any parent can ask for.

(The family walks off into the sunset as the scene fades to black.)