When I was boy, I was a pirate. A shaggy orange beard covered my face and a patch hid my eye. My sword was shiny and sharp. Strong and fearless, I sailed the seven seas in search of buried treasure.

When I was a boy, I was a cowboy. I wore a ten gallon hat, leather boots and had a pistol by my side. My horse was strong and gentle. Together, we herded the cattle. I was quick with my draw and known as the best gunfighter in the west.

When I was a boy, I was a garbage collector. With my sturdy can, I gathered all the trash that I could. When my can was full, I carried it on my shoulder to my big white truck. I dumped the garbage in and pulled a lever to crush it. Though the world was cleaner, when I was finished, I needed a bath.

When I was a boy, I was a CEO. I wore spiffy suits and ties. I carried a briefcase that was full of papers. I went to many meetings. Everyone thought I was important.

When I was a boy, I was a police officer. I wore a blue uniform and a shiny badge was pinned by my heart. I captured all the bad people and locked them in jail. I was honest, brave and I alone lay down the law.

When I was a boy, I was a circus clown. I wore many faces, some happy and some sad. I knew many funny tricks and a little magic. Everyone always laughed and had a good time, watching me perform.

When I was a boy, I was a miner. With my shovel, I dug deep holes in the earth. I carried a lantern, because it was very dark underground. I searched for precious metals and coal. Mostly, I only found different kinds of rocks.

When I was boy, I was a farmer. I lived in a little farmhouse. I had a barn that was bright red and had tall silo. I planted many seeds. When it was time for my harvest, I rode a yellow tractor into the fields, gathered my crops and took them to market.

When I was a boy, I was a fisherman. My small boat was filled with fancy nets. I always caught a lot of fish; most were small, a few were big and once I caught a shark with many sharp teeth in its mouth.

When I was a boy, I was a firefighter. I wore a red hat upon my head. My spotted dog rode with me on our hook and ladder truck. Together, we climbed our ladders and saved people from burning buildings. Then we squirted our hoses and put out the blazing flames.

When I was a boy, I was a professional football player. I protected my body with all sorts of pads. I could run, pass and kick the ball. The crowd always cheered loudly when I scored a touchdown.

Originally published on Associated Content / Yahoo Contributor Network (YCN) on March 31, 2009

© Copyright, Han Van Meegerin – All Rights Reserved

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