Thirty-Five Cents

When I was a kid, maybe 6 or 7, I was strong-armed on a daily basis by dastardly rogue named Douglas Stephens, who was also 6 or 7 years of age.

My Mother gave me 35 cents for lunch everyday.

Before lunch Doug would make me hand over a nickle or I would suffer the consequences. Within a month Doug was about a dollar richer and I was indebted to the elementary school cafeteria who had extended me credit.

It was a microcosm of adult life. I learned about credit and being overextended and I learned about dealing with bullies.

The debt to my alma mater was settled years ago. Doug is now a 55 year old dentist. With accrued interest compounded over 49 years, I'd say a root canal and some bridge work should cover his debt.