I've been writing stories (mostly fiction) since the 6th grade. My 6th grade teacher failed me because he said I plagiarized the story. My father went to bat for me. He told the teacher that I learned nautical sailing terms from him in our weekend sailing adventures. My Dad asked him to produce or name the work I stole it from. He could not.

I took it as a triumph even though he failed me. I write because I am compelled.

Thanks for your impassioned story, it's a rousing call. 🙏