The athlete maneuvered the ball past everyone toward the open goal. The caregiver stopped when another kid fell. “Are you okay?”

Years later, the athlete studied Krav Maga, and the caregiver tutored kids.

Walking them home, the nerd wore a cicada exuvia like a brooch (and explained what an exuvia was). That kid earned a degree in entomology and reads every word of long software disclaimers.

The artist who sang on our walk earned a theater degree, bakes with magical skill, and makes a living creating.

They’re all the same person. I get why they prefer to be called “they.”

Illustration by Steve Spetseris

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