Monday, February 19

The Poet's Lobby

Last week, our newspaper had a story about a local middle school teacher, who wanted her students to write about subjects they felt passionate about, and then explain to legislators how they felt. After writing their pieces in prose and poetry, they headed down to the General Assembly. I was struck by the insights of two of the poems. See if you agree.


A Beautiful World
by Jaslina Paintal

Dearest Earth
Divine Treasure
Mother land
That gives life

I give thanks
for this home
This nest of marvels
In an infinite universe

Friends
by Nicky Eick

Skin that's all it is
Me and you
Have a border
Of skin whether
White or Black
I got your back
Because you're my
Friend and no
Matter what they say
I will be there
Til the end

14 comments:

Unknown said...

Now if the General Assemblies around the country could learn from both of those and start doing something as positive and constructive.

Bobkat said...

Lovely poems! I wish everyone could express themselves so eloquently.

Tia said...

Those are fabulous! How cool!

Pat said...

Heartfelt - both!

Pat said...

For the second time:- heartfelt - both!

Weary Hag said...

They say the healthiest of poetic minds lie in the very young. How true.

Thanks for sharing these.

utenzi said...

Skin and Earth. Yep

srp said...

These two did a wonderful job expressing themselves.... clear and understandable.

Wouldn't it be nice to wipe all the legislators out and start over... we would send some florists, a few doctors, lab techs for sure, teachers, farmers, only one poet... no celebrities or folks who feel entitled and although I know your daughter is a wonderful and kind lawyer... I think we could do without them. The legal jargon would just get us right back to the same state we are in now.

Raggedy said...

Those are beautiful poems.
Have a wonderful day!
*^_^
(=':'=) hugs
(")_ (")Š from
the Cool Raggedy one

Beverly said...

I particularly like the one about friends.

rosemary said...

If only we could hope that all middle school kids had this much insight....maybe in time.

Shephard said...

Definitely hope for the future if there are more people out there like this.

~S

Anna said...

Wonderful poems....very talented and very insightful.

Anonymous said...

She must be a good teacher to inspire that kind of poetry.