Grady witnesses the drinking and violence of his parents. While drunk, his dad threatens to shoot the family with his shotgun. But Grady goes to church and trusts God. He loses faith when his dad beats him for obedience. At age 12 Grady gets a BB-gun and accidentally shoots himself, blinding one eye. Both his parents get saved, and Grady goes to the altar, hoping God will restore his sight. He turns from God when his hope is dashed. Ridiculed at school, he becomes bitter and hangs out with bullies. The first part ends when Grady rebels and starts drinking and using drugs.