Your headlights reveal the steam off of the roads as you drive.
One flash memoir on recess and painful moments
EDIT: There were originally 2 stories here, but one was picked up for publication by a literary journal. Read it here!
Hi passengers,
My therapist has encouraged me to continue recounting memories from my childhood. Whether they are positive or negative, these can be catalysts for healing and genuine closure.
I have produced one flash memoir from elementary school. It involves recess, ball games, and pain. That’s what BD/WD passengers deserve.
Cue the recess shenanigans.
Pain and other things that bounce
During a free gym period, the game, “Red Butt,” was chosen. A bastardized, racquet-less Squash with dreadful consequences for the less agile. The assembly of kids garnished many spectators and participants. I played it safe in the back until a crooked serve caught me off-guard. I fumbled the tennis ball and scrambled toward the wall. My arms were fully extended, craving the rough, water-logged brick. But the whomp of the ball beat me. Exasperated, I looked back to see S., of all people. My recess buddy decided my fate. I stood against the wall and breathed in the moisture. I could hear warm-up bounces and the chuckling of the firing squad. Then, the searing pain in my lower back and ass. I felt everything tense. Adrenaline-fueled, I seized a static ball and chucked it at S.’s head. I couldn’t remember if I hit him. I exited the game with hands in my pockets and darkened spots on my azure polo. The pain subsided by lunch. Or seeped into my heart. I really wasn’t sure.