I Can't Make This Up: Life Lessons

by Kevin Hart

My moment was in seventh grade. My friend’s dad was taking him and some other kids to Clementon Park on a Saturday afternoon. The amusement park wasn’t that far away, but my mom didn’t know the kid or his parents, so she refused to let me go. That’s when I decided, I’m gonna go for it. Whatever happens, happens, but enough is enough. I could feel the lump forming in my throat as I got ready to stand up to her for the first time and make my voice heard. Mom: I don’t know what these people are about. I’m not letting you go off with a bunch of strangers to get left behind accidentally or get caught up in gang activities. Me: He’s my friend. He’s a good person. So is his dad. They would never do that. Mom: I said no and I mean no. End of discussion. Me: I-I-I’m sick of this. I don’t want to be here anymore! I don’t want to live here! I want to live with Dad. He lets me do whatever I want. Mom: Then go. Me: Huh? Mom: Go live with your dad. Me: What? Mom: You heard me. If that’s what you want, you’re free to go. Me: Okay, cool. I couldn’t believe my luck. I was finally free. I’d be able to go to movies and birthday parties and play outside with friends like a normal kid. Plus, maybe my dad could find me another Sonic 6. I stuffed my clothing into a shopping bag and grabbed my basketball. Then she took me to my dad’s house in South Philly and left me there. When I looked up at the building, half the windows either were broken or didn’t have shades. The place looked abandoned. I w...