Shit List

[Dedicated to Ryan Dillaha and his unique teaching methods]

The fear.

The embarrassment.

The humility.

The shame.

The permanent name

engraved

in the board’s corner

lingering;

leering down

for all to know

as you crouch low;

praying

for Korach’s Hole.

The incriminating letter

burns

in your backpack

as you walk home

head hung in despair

with the ring of the

Kindergartens’ bell.

The discipline

shows the next day

with the fidgeting

of your buttocks

as you try to sit

still;

quiet,

alone.

A teacher’s pet.

A name erased.