First Crush

He was closer to me now. Ms. T had changed the classes seat and he now sat in front of me. He had dirty blonde hair, in crew cut style, and green eyes. He was funny and we talked in class all day. Something, I am sure Ms. T did not appreciate much. Sometimes we played together on the playground. I was so lucky and supremely happy. The number two pencil that landed on the back of his head daily expressed my daily delight and interest in Gary, though I am not sure Gary held the same sentiment as that number two pencil repeatedly pounded on the back of his head.

Today, I am a middle school teacher and when I see a middle schooler physically contacting each other in silly ways, I say, ” Oh Johnny, be careful, Lisa may like you.” This comment of course provokes adverse reactions from the culprits, and laughter and wide eyed looks from the rest of the class. The behavior immediately stops. I then share my first crush love story of second grade with my students.

I don’t know what happened to Gary, but he is forever remembered.