One thing all children want at some point in their life.

At least I did.

My parents saw me succeed and it became a standard.

I blazed a trail through elementary and junior high, ready to take on high school.

Or not.

My very first class I took I got a C+.

It was during Covid so my mom brushed it off as me not being able to learn from home.

Then I got another.

And another.

And then there were more letters down the alphabet then there were A’s.

My dad threw things.

My mom cursed under her breath.

“What are you doing?” and “Get it together.” Were my new least favorite phrases.

I was mad.

I used to be the best.

I used to get $5 for every A.

Now I was sad and broke.

Going into Senior year.

I have to do better.

3.1.

I won’t make it into college.

ACT:22.

I gotta try harder.

ACT:23.

Be the best.

Great.

Amazing.

Perfect.

A.