Remember the movie Ferris Bueller ‘s Day Off? It is popular , not only because of Mathew Brotherick’s mischievous character but also because it helps us look at ourselves in a playful way .
Pili, my best friend from high school, recently reached out and shared how she tells stories of our childhood to her children:
-“They love hearing all the crazy stuff!” she said .
Bursting in laugh, I nervously wondered what can she possibly be telling her kids ?
– “Oh my God!!!!” I exclaimed flooded in memories
-” Do you remember when you released a toad in the classroom? ” she asked.
-“Wow!! I really did that!” Cracked up laughing.
I suddenly remembered a chain of incidents that would mark my iconic school years. The toad brought memories of the mischievous child I once was. How did I get away with it?
It happened during the incredibly boring Biology class ; a bold statement considering I love science. The teacher didn’t like us and our feelings were mutual. Myriam ( the teacher), had this “gotcha” smirk on her face when addressing us; as if she was always on the look for our ulterior motifs ( which needless to say we did have).
The class assignment was to bring different species of animals in the classroom. My little friend the toad, was going to make a “memorable entrance” for the amphibians of the world. After the event, I planned to release it into the wild where it belonged.
I executed the plan and Pili was my accomplice: I slowly opened the container holding the toad. As expected, it started jumping all over, causing screaming girls to crawl up on their desks while others ( like Pili) laughed hysterically contributing to the commotion. Calmly, as if just realizing my toad had escaped, I retrieved the free roaming amphibian and walked out of the classroom to release it into a long grassy area. ” Thank you my friend, you are free to go ! ” I said.
Myriam’s reaction was memorable; her disapproving stare and the way she muttered our names: ” Adriana and Pilar: to the Principal’s office!”
I had a logical explanation of course: The amphibian managed to escape its enclosure. Poor little guy was probably more scared than all of the screaming girls together. I apologized and smiled innocently, should have made sure the container was properly closed oops! Myriam seemed to instinctively know we plotted it all but no one saw us releasing the toad so no disciplinary action was taken. After all, these things can happen with children and animals in classrooms.
We meant no harm with our plots. Rather, we were just mischiefs in a quest to vanquish boredom and inquisitive participants making learning a wonderful journey when our interest sparked.
I hope I have not disappointed you with this story. .However, every once in a while, we all need to let our inner child resurface and roam free.
Gypsy Doc.
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