Getting Rocks

When I was in fourth grade, there was a day that we were supposed to bring in a couple of rocks for science class because we were studying geology. I realized I had forgotten about this assignment when my classmates showed each other their rocks about 10 minutes before the lesson. I asked to go to the bathroom, but I stopped by the exterior door, went outside, and grabbed the first two rocks I saw. When I was back in class, I had the stones that I needed. I kept thinking that I would get caught, and I also thought that if I were asked where the rocks were from, I would need to tell the truth because I would be in much more trouble for lying than for sneaking out to get rocks. I was never asked. The lesson went fine.

Looking back at this story, I feel ashamed for not remembering my assignment. I also feel some pride for being resourceful and solving the problem, even if it was not exactly what the teacher intended. Honestly, the strongest feeling I have about the whole situation is relief that I did not lie about where I got the rocks.

There are many fourth-grade class days that I have entirely forgotten, but this one has stuck in my memory. This is a story that has shaped me; what stories have shaped you?