Reformer at heart
with kids and tuition dues—
lo! Inertia.
Jessica was the soul of a party. She’d hand out drinks, pick up empty paper cups, and would roared at Michael’s silly jokes.
At school, she’d strut around with friends, bullying juniors and tormenting the school cat.
But everyone loved her. Though she had joined in the middle of term, her classmates were quick to accept her. Tall and slender, and a shoulder-haired brunette, she was attractive and aloof — the perfect high-school heartthrob.
But each night facing her mirror, Jessica couldn’t accept her change. At least they liked her, she assured herself, unlike in the previous school.

“How could you support him?” She yelled, hands on hips, lips pursed in disapproval. Just as I thought she was done, “Him!” She yelled again. Unable to form any more words, she stared while I sipped my soda.
“What’s wrong with him?” He wasn’t the best but he was a good candidate. He created controversies, but also good arguments. And as his bushy hair soared, so did his popularity. I stood my ground, certain that responsibilities will alter attitudes.
“But he contested against me!” She wailed, her eyes welling up. “How could you not support me for class leader, Dad?”