Author’s note: Essayists are encouraged to collect stories that they have heard from others that resonate with them. Here is a story that I heard from a former co-worker. I imagined most of this dialogue.
Tenth Grade Teacher: It’s the start of a new school year. Let’s talk about our goals.
Girl #1: Improve my grades in math.
Teacher: Good.
Boy #2: Run a 6 minute mile.
Teacher: Great. Anyone else?
Girl #3: I am going to become Ricky’s girlfriend this year.
Class bursts out in laughter.
Ricky slumps in his seat in embarrassment.
Girl smiles.
