Shame of a Third Grader

"Get off the swing,

It's mine."

She gets off unwillingly,

But I know she is scared of me.

Linger around,

I think

and I'll punch you

Fourth graders are scared of sixth graders,

Third graders are scared of fifth graders,

Second graders are scared of fourth graders,

First graders are scared of third graders.

and third graders are me.

The first grader actually stays,

As if she might be waiting for something.

I shove her aside

"Get away from me,

You're trash."

She half waddles,

Half trips her way,

As far from me as she can.

But the triumph of having that swing to myself,

Only generates one feeling

Guilt... and shame