Memories of memorizing
The year is 1959. I am in first grade, but I am in my sister's classroom, standing in front of Mrs. Crase's class. My sister, a 6th grader had to memorize the poem "The Midnight ride of Paul Revere" and she taught it to me. Mrs. Crase thought that was a big deal and asked me to recite it for her class. I am nervous and looking at the floor. I clasp my hands behind my back and twist my right foot back and forth . I am wearing a red plaid dress from the Jewel Tea man. Two other girls in my class are wearing the same one. The Jewel Tea man, a traveling salesman who sold many items including clothing, was popular with the mothers of that time. I don't know if he even sold tea. "Listen my children and you shall hear Of the midnight ride of Paul Revere...." I begin. Suddenly I don't remember the next line. My right foot twists even more rapidly. My left foot grounds me, holding steady. I clasp and unclasp my sweaty hands behind my back. I