by Laura Howat

Months late to start second grade.
Didn’t know anyone, was very afraid.
Four states already in my seven years.
First one parent then the other disappeared.
Mom came back with no explaining.
It was very bad, she did lots of complaining.

Teacher sent me to the table, I sat.
Twirled my hair, sucked my thumb,
she thought I was a brat.
Get some paper and start your work, she said to me.
I saw a bunch of squiggly lines, it didn’t make sense you see.
Bunch of middle class kids here thriving.
All my effort is spent on surviving.
My brain doesn’t focus cause my home isn’t safe.
Look out the window daydreaming to escape.

Sweet boy David on my left started talking to me.
He was so friendly and nice.
When he smiled, it was love at first sight.
David seemed like he cared.
Now, I wasn’t so scared.
I was so happy,
I turned to him and started chatting.

Footsteps behind.
Teacher said I wasn’t listening.
Pulled my hair.
Stood me in the corner, 
everyone stared.
Teacher thought it was brashness.
Didn’t bother to ask why I was covered in rashes.

Next day, so sad, went from planning my wedding, to
dragging my feet to school, dreading.