thoughts, words, deeds

some reflections on the past

What did you get in trouble for the most when you were younger?

I actually didn't get into much trouble as a child. I read a lot and got good grades and didn't do anything to self destructive. I'm the oldest of six and we're a close family. I watched my younger brother and sisters, although I did end up torturing them in the way that most older siblings end up torturing younger siblings. I still have a good relationship with all of them, so I guess even that wasn't too bad.

I liked all of my teachers, although my algebra teacher in ninth grade was upset with me that I read in her class. She really couldn't say much about that because I was still at the top of the class for the work. Another teacher told me later that he used to gauge how well his lectures were going by when I brought out my book.

I was indifferent about chores--compounded by the fact that when I was a senior in high school, I got my hair caught in a vacuum cleaner. I still don't like them.

I've been thinking about life today--mostly because it's my birthday (I'm 42) and it's a time to reflect. I've actually trod very lightly upon the earth. I rarely got in trouble or made waves. But, on the other hand, I hope I've done little things that made the world better for the people around me.

That's the hope. I wonder if I'll ever know if I succeeded.