A new outlook is needed.
All children need to be seen.
To learn empathy and forgiveness.
To be accepted and respected.
To be noticed and visible.
To ask questions and receive answers.
To be loved.
If only we could capture every teachable moment.
If only all parents and teachers knew acceptance.
If only all children were respected.
If only all children received an equal education and opportunity.
Why can't we?
Why can't they?
Why can't you?
If only we had a new outlook on the future.
Hi Mary,
ReplyDeleteI loved reading your poem. The line that really stood out to me is, "If only we could capture every teachable moment". It breaks my heart to recognized how many missed opportunities there are to truly change the trajectory of a child's life. They are often as simple as a small compliment or kind word by a caring adult. As preschool teachers, we are often over-worked, over-stress, and our contributions over-looked, as well. Many times people ask me how I have the patience to do this job. I respond that patience wears thin and runs out. I strive for understanding; it's a much deeper well from which to draw. Yes. our job is often stressful, but immensely important and rewarding. I especially love the quote you included by Frederick Douglas. This is why I enrolled in this program. I don't have children of my own, but feel I have a calling to make a contribution to society by helping others. I appreciate all that you are doing to this end, as well! And, always enjoy your contributions to our class. Thank you! --Angela
Hi Mary,
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed reading your poem. I like how you sum up and incorporate all aspects of this past 7 weeks into your poem. This poem stresses the importance of what children need in order to thrive.
Thank you again for sharing.
Elizabeth
Mary,
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading your poem. Your poem included many important concepts that I also included in my artwork for this week. I definitely believe in the importance of children learning empathy, forgiveness, acceptance and above all feeling and knowing they are loved.
Courtney
this is beautiful Mary.It brings me to my original point....why should children be learning things like empathy and forgiveness when adults are the reasons why those verbs are needed in the first place. If we never taught them how to not be as open as they are and as loving as that are, they would not need to teach them to forgive.
ReplyDelete