Beyond the protection of the playdough worn kitchen,
and Mom humming lullabies in the dark room,
there is another universe.
A frightening world
of strange smelling green leather seats,
and tennis-shoed Big Kids who can spell
"M-I-S-S-I-S-S-I-P-P-I."
A world enclosed by cardboard block towers,
and circles of carpet remnants
spread out for Story Time.
A world where letters are people,
and graham crackers are hoarded
in linty pockets.
A world of a single-file lines,
and "Indian-style" sitting circles.
A world where your blankie is not welcome
and Mr. Teddy must wait until Show and Tell.
This piece has been published in Teen Ink’s monthly print magazine.

d.l.breaux

Join the Discussion
This article has 1 comment. Post your own!