I'm Not Charley
Hello, my name is Odell! I was born in 1961. I have an Associate of Sciences and a Bachelor of Arts degree. I'm a Pilot, Photographer, Poet, Philosopher, Mystic, Writer, Musician, Amateur Astronomer, and for over 45 years I've been a professional computer programmer — and a lot more. I mention these accomplishments because of something that happened in 2nd grade. I was falling behind academically, having problems learning to read and write. After much humiliation (my classmates constantly made fun of me) and testing, I was diagnosed as being “brain damaged.” My parents were told that I would never learn to read or write or have normal relationships or a normal life — in fact, that it would be best if I was simply placed in an institution. They were told they had three other children and another on the way, so it would be best for everyone. My parents disregarded this and kept me in school and “mainstreamed” me. I was held back and had to repeat 2nd grade. Unfortunately...