Square Peg - Round Hole

I grew up in the 70's. And I was one of "those" kids. The kid that the teachers made sure you were used as the example of how not to. On her projector with her 2000 watt bulb blaring on the map of Europe, laid my limp attempt at cursive writing. Her red pencil marks from one word to the next. If it were not for the fact that I was so proud...I'm a Leo, I would have broken my huge pencil into pieces.

Math was the same. I was allowed to use sticks to add and subtract. Fingers were not allowed. Reading ... I was the lowest group that didn't get the opportunity to name their group, we were just the "yellow" group.

But my academic world was not the only world that set me apart. On the playground, or away from the classroom I was a visionary. Jump ropes could be used on monkey bars, hop scotch was a rare artifact from a land far away and my blank stares were actually considered looks of concentration and steely leadership.

My entire life I was set apart. Sent to the special classes. But I didn't feel special, I felt stupid. I felt different and I knew I would never fit in.

Now in my late 40's and recently diagnosed with ADHD, I understand. I have long embraced the traits that set me apart. And I'm still special.