A Thief at Mervin's

I once shoplifted at Mervin's in California, but I was caught by my mother's friend, Terri. It was Easter-time and there was a sizable display of Easter candies in the middle of an aisle. I had on a green corduroy coat with large deep front pockets. I knew I would not be allowed to buy any, so I simply began slyly putting piece after piece into my pockets.

As we departed the store, Terri said, "What's in your pockets?" (They were flat and empty going in and bulging coming out; pretty obvious.) I replied, "Homework." (Can you believe that response?) In another post, you'll remember that I did not like Terri very well. She was the one who ratted me out for calling a kid a "Fucker" for swinging a board at my head. Needless to say, she ratted me out again.

My mother thought she would teach me a lesson, so she found the store manager who called security to whom I had to confess and hand over the loot. I don't remember crying, although I probably did. I also don't remember being in any more hot water once we got home, although I probably was. I do, however, remember seeking out the manager to say hello each time we revisited Mervin's. He was very forgiving...but then again, I never shoplifted in his store again!

~Mama