Kids I Knew – Roscoe Johnson

I had a friend in school named Roscoe Johnson. He had a lot of problems, just like we all did. The worst of his was that he was not coordinated. He could not snap his fingers, clap his hands or chew gum and walk.

His dad who had been the star quarterback in high school was concerned and truth be known, a little disgusted.

In desperation, he baited Roscoe with his favorite food and tagged on a challenge to improve his coordination.

“Son,” he said, “If you can learn to clap your hands, I’ll buy you the biggest ice cream cone they have at the soda shop.”

Full of excitement and determination, Roscoe began to practice. At first his attempts were pitiful. Hands only waving in the air as they passed by each other. The days progressed and each day, more and more skin connected.

Finally, after weeks of work, Roscoe had mastered the art of clapping!

That night at dinner, as all watched, he clapped his hands!

Impressed, his father loaded the car with the whole family after dinner and drove them to the ice cream shop. 

Roscoe ordered a triple scoop double chocolate cone.

He eyed it, he licked his lips and successfully planted a square on his forehead.

Roy Richard
October 2023