From Slate Magazine · A.J. Daulerio · · 50s
Meme of My Past
A teacher's embarrassing arrest becomes a child's fear.
In brief
A teacher's embarrassing arrest becomes a child's fear. A former high school teacher's internet meme from a decade ago now worries his infant son about social stigma. Originally reported by Slate Magazine.
My dark moment
Ten years ago, I pulled over to ask sex workers for drugs.
“One of them was actually a cop, and I was arrested.”
Arrested on curb
I waited in cuffs while a former student took my photo.
“I was a local meme. I do not harbor ill will about this.”
Meme spread
The photo went viral, making me a public joke.
“It is objectively funny to see your high school teacher busted for solicitation.”
Ten years later
I have a baby and a successful career.
“I’ve gotten sober and gotten my life back on track.”
New fear
My son’s friends might Google me and judge my past.
“I’m afraid about how this is going to affect his life because of the Meme of It All.”
My wife’s support
My wife married me before the arrest and knows my past.
“My wife knew me before this happened and married me anyway.”
Other stories
A fellow former student shares similar fears.
“I’ve experienced the same levels of intense regret and paranoia you are.”
What happens next
I will teach my son that mistakes are lessons.
“Use the next decade to teach your son that mistakes are lessons.”
Here's the gist
A former high school teacher's internet meme from a decade ago now worries his infant son about social stigma.
