Sometimes there are events so monumental they’re perfectly preserved as a snapshot, never forgotten. 5 readers share the moments forever
MY teenage years were tumultuous, as they are for many teens. I had an amazing group of friends who were great role models, and I was involved in many different programs in the community. But things were very hard at home. There was a lot of conflict and tension.
Like I said, I was a good girl, with good friends. But knee deep in the chaos of home, I reverted to another persona. Maybe it was my way of dealing with the conflict without actually facing it, maybe I felt I was getting back at my parents. Whatever it was, when things were tense at home, I’d hang out with my other chevreh, and that was when I really got myself into trouble.
Through this, I had a very close relationship with my high school principal and his wife, and they guided me through a lot. They knew about some of what I was dealing with and tried to be patient with my teenage antics. But when they’d try to talk sense to me, I’d listen with only half an ear and many eye rolls.
Until Purim night of 11th grade. My house was upside down, and there was a lot of fighting. I’d attended the school chagigah, but when it was over, I knew I wasn’t going home. I also knew that no one would even notice. Instead, I went with the gang to another girl’s house. Her parents were completely checked out. We were in the basement, a group of guys were there, and alcohol was passed around freely.
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