Once Upon A Time, Out Of Elementary School

Lying back in the whirlpool, arms crossed behind my resting head; listen to the water bubble--splashing and shouting surround me. It's our primary school graduation party at the local water park. I take a moment to think about my future--what will I do? I will become a professional scholar, and go to University. I decide that romancing another would be trivial, that for the next decade, the notion should be put aside. I relax with conviction: this is the start of my journey to adulthood. Someone behind me says, "I love you," tenderly, then leans away. I am surprised to turn around, to see an old friend pass by. He holds her close, and they stare into each other’s eyes. It's not for me, but it's the first time that I've seen such a sight in person. I turn away and search for another's gaze, of whom I don't recognize. This new person's expressions interest me for years to come.