It was my final year at Pyles Elementary and things were mostly the same. Although the physical bullying had subsided, I had yet to build any real nurturing childhood friendships, the ones adults often look back with a sense of joy.
One difference this year was I was involved in the YMCA after school program, which provided me many fun activities to do after school (that I didn’t have at home, being poor and all). I remember exciting activities which included fun Fridays (with a lot of boardgames), watching Pokemon in the Cafeteria together, and doing a vast assortment of arts and crafts. One of the most inspirational adults I met this year was a YMCA employee, my “group leader”. Although she wasn’t a teacher, she acted as one in my life. This compassionate and caring individual showered me with the positive attention and appreciation I had been yearning for but had not received from anyone else at that time.
Of course, she happened to live in the same neighborhood as us in Stanton. One day, a kid was chasing me while I was riding my bike, and I accidentally made a small dent into my teacher’s car. I felt a sense of guilt and shame and was very emotional about it when she saw me. However, instead of reacting harshly or pressing charges, she responded with understanding and forgiveness.
Fast forward twelve years, and my admiration for the enriching experiences of the YMCA and that group leader’s compassion still are fondly remembered. Inspired by her and the positive experiences I had in the YMCA program, I made the decision to work for the YMCA while pursuing my teaching credential. With the end of the 4th grade came our family’s move to a new school, a new district, and a new adventure.
