A sadish poem

This poem was taken with apologies from the new book "How We 'Do' School: Poems to Encourage Teacher Reflection" by Karen Morrow Durica (no relation)

I Used to Ask the Questions:
Kindergartner’s Lament

I used to ask the questions.
I used to play for hours
and learn so many things.
I used to watch how something happened
and then try it by myself
till my own effort found its wings.

I used to pick the books we’d read at naptime.
I used to know the stories
all by heart.
I used to listen to the sounds those friendly words made
and play with silly rhymes
and change the parts.

I used to write great stories for my teddy.
I used words that made
my daddy smile or sigh.
I used to make the letters in green crayon
And if I wanted—just for fun—
I’d decorate the i’s.

I used to feel my world was so exciting!
I used to wonder about things
from stars to sand.
I used to think my questions weren’t a bother
and my answers—right or wrong—
were always grand.

I remember that I used to ask the questions.
I remember
just how learning made me feel.
I remember how I loved to think
and puzzle
and how the word discovery was real.
Yes, I remember that I used to ask the questions...
and then...

I started school.

This poem flows incredibly well ... and the end surprised me ... I even smirked. But, on further reflection, I realized there is a sadness to this poem -- a sadness that is a reality for some students, who come to public school only to have their imagination and joy for learning squelched.

It is so important to cultivate the joy students bring -- to encourage them to ALWAYS ask questions, never shy from answers, and explore, explore, explore their curiosities.