Growing up in Nebraska presents unique challenges, at least when you choose to live your adult live elsewhere. The state does not have a reputation as being a particularly sophisticated or interesting place. In an effort to avoid the pity and sad looks from her friends and acquaintances, the author recalls a story from her early teen years in Nebraska, a true event that happened to her, to impress them and help them realize she is not a county bumpkin. In recalling the event, the author realizes how what happened peeled off the first layer of naiveté from her soul. There would be many more peelings, but this, the first, will never be forgotten.