I have these regrettable memories of a tubby, ostracized classmate of mine from 2nd or 3rd grade. Charles was a fairly good-natured boy who, unlike the other kids, was heavy, clumsy and wore tacky cowboy boots every day. But like every other kid, Charles just wanted, no - needed, friends to play with. Instead, we were cruel to "the fat kid." We'd run away from him when he came near. We'd kick him from behind, unprovoked. And on the rare days we were generous enough to let him join in our play, we'd give him the unwanted role - always "it," the chaser. I don’t recall us ever allowing him the … [Read more...]