i didn’t complete ninth grade.

i don’t talk to my living biological mother.

when i was twelve and homeless, i used to sleep in a boat that was stored on the bottom floor of a parking garage.

so, when i got this in my email:

BTW, did Natalie tell you we share the honor of being 9th grade high school dropouts? I almost never mention that to new acquaintances but natalie said you’re not shy about it. I should adopt that attitude! Looking forward to trading stories sometime.

i responded:

all ninth grade drop-out stories that end up with the delinquent an honorable and productive member of society should be shared, and proudly.

i’m looking forward to hearing your story.