Previous Challenge Entry
Topic: First Day of School (06/28/04)
|
TITLE: First Day of School By Donna Hogue 07/05/04 |
 LEAVE COMMENT ON ARTICLE
SEND A PRIVATE COMMENT
SEND ARTICLE TO A FRIEND
|
for our books,
new clothes
new looks
a year older.
Buses were waiting
parents stood waving
as we crossed
new thresholds
to learn.
Homerooms assigned
lessons designed
to make us think
to make us hungry
for more.
Teachers stood firm
as partners to learn
of adding,
subtracting;
calculating wrongs.
Words none too few
with secular views
crouching in;
making me afraid
to dispute.
Dreaded seating arrangements
unlawful containment
of my soul
in a universe
spoiled.
Lockers brand new
combinations to view
and sweating as I stand
to open;
sweet victory!
Lunch was no surprise
the fish still had eyes;
the cooking's the same--
bland,
not Mom's.
Recess deployed
the teacher's annoyed
by antics displayed
from long
summer days.
Why must I paint?
My fingers feel faint
with no imagination
to be found
today.
I am earnestly waiting
the bell's hesitation;
just thrilled to get out
and
go home.
There is one thing more
the note on the board--
assignments to be
completed
at home.
Greeted once more
as a long lost soul
all smiles;
questions galore;
cookies outpoured.
One day is done
by the setting sun;
homework unfolds
new territory
takes hold.
Not knowing how to pray
they won't let you anyway
and I go on
alone
a new day.
Donna L. Hogue
7/05/04