Me Against The World

Today they told me bout how dad's an alcoholic. Yesterday they said I am a "grandma's boy" and the day before that they talked about Aunt Bennie, who "couldn't just stay in the kitchen like all the other women." Everyday they come up with something new, and everyday it stings as fresh as before. I've tried everything to get them to stop; I been nice, I tried fighting, I told the teacher (she don't care a bit), they just don't get that they is making me real sad. I can't tell Mama or Pop bout it; they have too much else to worry about. I do believe that being a kid isn't supposed to be like this, all I's supposed to do is play and learn and have fun. Instead I gots to carry groceries and do odd jobs for strangers so I can just maybe buy a piece of fruit or something. "I can't make up my mind... Sometimes I want to be like you [Daddy]" (108) but I know that whatever I turn out to be, I'll be better off running away. Mom, Dad, Mama, Bennie: I'm sorry, I had to go. Y'all need the money and I needs to make my own life. Don't know where I'm going or what I'll do, but don't worry bout me none. I can take care of myself. Once I get some more money maybe I'll send some back if I can figure out where y'all live now. I don't know if you went out to Clybourne Park or not but I hope you didn't, someone is gonna get hurt if you do. I love all of you and I will see you again someday, I hope y'all can forgive me.

Love,
Travis

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