Poetry Friday: Lost
In a week I begin a new journey as I move from my first grade classroom to a reading intervention position in our building. It's the first time I've been without a classroom to arrange, a class list to call my own, or a classroom community to begin to build. It's a little unsettling. I'm excited about this new opportunity and am beginning to rethink my community --- it's just larger. Find my class list --- it's the classes I will be working with in the upcoming year. I stumbled upon this poem this evening that seemed fitting as I find my way in this new place.
by David Wagoner from Collected Poems 1956-1976 © Indiana University Press.
Stand still. The trees ahead and bushes beside you
Are not lost. Wherever you are is called Here,
And you must treat it as a powerful stranger,
Must ask permission to know it and be known.
The rest can be found here: The Writer's Almanac with Garrison Keillor
Here's to a new journey as I discover my new HERE.
Perfect pick!
ReplyDeletePS--welcome back!
DeleteCathy, thanks for bringing me back to this poem. It IS strange to start a new year in a different position, but don't worry--the forest will find you!
ReplyDeleteCathy, moving to a new position may be a bit unsettling at first but it gives you a more global perspective about literacy. You will be able to affect change with more children. "The forest breathes. Listen. It answers, I have made this place around you." This line from the poem you chose to highlight gives the reader advice at the start of a new journey. We must listen and follow.
ReplyDeleteConsider reflecting/writing about your favorite summer serenity spot for a virtual gallery of artistic expressions that will be unveiled at the end of this month. (http://beyondliteracylink.blogspot.com/2014/07/souvenir-from-reflect-with-me-summer.html). Good luck this year as you find your place in the larger learning community.
Best wishes, Cathy. This will be my fifth year in a similar kind of position, & your poem fits so well. That final line describes the way I felt although I had worked with many of the teachers for years. Now, we began a different relationship.
ReplyDeleteLove the poem -- thank you for sharing it with us! Best of luck with the new school year.
ReplyDeleteCathy, such a beautiful poem. I have had a crazy busy, spinning in circles summer, and reading through this two or three times made me feel quieter. Thanks so much! Wishing you well in your new position, I know you will bring such enormous gifts to teachers and children.
ReplyDeleteI always find that poetry help you find your way, as I hope this one did for you. :)
ReplyDeleteThinking of you as you make this transition! I love how poetry is helping to guide you. Here's to a great year!
ReplyDeleteThis poem offers so much comfort when we feel lost - a feeling I am all too familiar with. I love the line: "You must let it find you." Thank you for sharing this poem and I'm sending you positive vibes for this new chapter in your professional life. = )
ReplyDelete"Here! Here!" to this poem and to new opportunities, Cathy! Wishing you the very best-- I'm sure you'll find your way. :)
ReplyDeleteOh, what a great poem. Thank you for sharing it.
ReplyDeleteI'm sure you are going to love your new position. It will be different, but will open even more doors to growth and make a classroom position even richer if you ever decide to return to it.