I got permanently expelled from
a church-run boarding school
in the 11th grade for vandalism,
or conspiring to vandalize, or
belonging to a clique the school
did not approve of. It didn't fit
their image. I was innocent. Of vandalism.
Of conspiracy. Not of belonging to the wrong group,
associating with bad companions. What was I supposed to be--
a goody two-shoes? Yes. I was penalized for not conforming.
It was not the first time, nor would it be the last. In fact,
I got kicked out of the 12th grade, too. At Seacrest High School.
I dropped out and joined the military. I got my high school GED
in the Air Force. I went to Palm Beach Junior College on
an equivalency diploma issued by Adult Education
when I turned 21. Bureau of Administrative Services.
Department of Education. State of Florida.
The Sunshine State. Don't worry.
Be happy in your work.
I am happy in my work.
I have found my métier.
Underground writer.