Girl I tried to get out of it! I wasn't even home! He went under my bed and played with matches. When the fire started he ran out scared and didn't tell anyone. But, because I smoked my mom assumed it was me and that I had been in there smoking. She beat my butt in front of the whole neighborhood, including the firemen while I pleaded I didn't do it. Back then it was OK to do whip your kids in public.

I had ran all the way home because my friend came and got me. I was so worried for my family and as soon as I got there my mom grabbed me and it was all over.

I've never been the same since! Must be why I am afraid to die in a fire.