Show and Tell

During second-grade Show and Tell, a nerdy kid exhibited what he referred to as “rock specimens.” He had been spotted during recess, just prior, hastily gathering ordinary rocks. Though a mere second grader, I had somewhat refined taste, and I expected more from my entertainment. But the way he stood up front, fondling the dusty rocks and expertly describing their mineral composition and geological significance, was impressive. He took those dirt clods (ahem, specimens) and made you think he’d just unearthed gold itself from that California schoolyard. I lost track of him, but I’d guess that he now runs a research lab and that he goes spelunking on weekends.