June 19, 1999

The Kid on the Playground

Everyone knows of the little, shy kid who during recess or playtime always clambered off to the dankest, dirtiest corner of the playground and just stand there doing what seems to be nothing, presumably leaving himself alone to his thoughts and imagination. Teachers and "kind"-hearted folk try to reach out and help him, dropping him into groups or getting people to play with him. All he needs is reassurance and courage, they say.

All I can think about is to walk past everyone, to refuse the status quo of being with others, to face one's thoughts intimately, to find the ugliness in the beautiful park does take bravery. It's a choice to be alone.