Dedication
To the flock of ducks that God has given me. May you swim further and fly higher than I ever could.
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Author's Note: With the exception of two or three teachers, all names in this (including my own) have been changed to protect the privacy of those involved.
Please be aware, though, that this does not mean that the story I tell is less than true. No, in reality, anonymity means I can be more honest, not less.
And anyway, this is my story, not theirs. Thus, with one exception, it tells how my world was affected by those around me, not the hows or whys they acted as they did.
For they each have their own story to tell, and I would not dare to put words in their mouths, nor try to pretend I can read their thoughts or motives. Telling their own story is up to them, and I encourage them to do it!
And in case you're wondering, yes, that never-ending Christmas Eve encounter actually did happen. If you want to know what I mean, then you'd better keep reading!