The Dare
This reading had me on the edge of my seat the whole time. “Will he do it?” is all I could think of. This is the type of story no parent would ever want to know about. Not only is Roger putting himself in danger, but he must be going through so much pain inside knowing he has to prove himself to make friends. Not exactly what most people look for in a friend.
The following got my attention: Even my old cronies, Dwayne and O.T., made it clear I’d never be one of the guys in junior high if I didn’t dirty up my act. This is upsetting to me because I believe and try to teach my children to accept people for who they are. You never know when their qualities may benefit you.
I think Roger Hoffman wanted to express how hard a child’s life can be. He went to great measures just to “fit in”. Just because children become adults doesn’t mean things change, adults are confronted with dares, they are just usually handled in a much different manner.
Great point about how adults are confronted with dares just as children are. It’s amazing how children will take the dare because “not fitting in” is way more painful than the consequence of the dare itself. In a Psychological aspect, it’s fascinating as well that all of us have gone through this and children to come will as well.
You are 100% right about the growing up thing. Adults and children alike have problems. They may be the same problems…just because you are an adult doesn’t mean you don’t have pressures or worries.
Carmella Decesare
I Googled for something completely different, but found your page…and have to say thanks. nice read.