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Back To School

For twelve long years it was back to school
To make sure I didn’t grow up a fool
Learning how to read a book, do a cipher
At times I felt like a prisoner … a lifer!
I griped and groaned will it never end
In adulthood I realized it was a godsend,
Not only did I gain skills for my lifetime
Along the way, in school, I learned to rhyme.

Now, at eighty, I remember hardly a thing
But, believe it or not, I still have my class ring!
And I remember some awesome educators
Who were clever to squelch the instigators,
Giving us the skills we kids would most need
Teaching us to be followers; also, how to lead.
Today’s children will face many challenges,
But like most of us were, they are sponges.

They will become tomorrow’s successes,
And this is just one of my better guesses.

Written August 20, 2022
Submitted to "Back to School" Poetry Contest
Sponsored by Francine Roberts

Copyright © L Milton Hankins | Year Posted 2022

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Caren Krutsinger Date: 8/23/2022 9:32:00 AM This is an excellent contender for the contest! Great job! Login to Reply L Milton Hankins Date: 8/23/2022 11:14:00 AM I hope so. Guess we'll just have to wait and see.

Mike Gentile Date: 8/22/2022 4:40:00 AM Milt, I found so much truth wrapped up in your sweet poem. I totally relate and agree with every word. You have crafted this one so well that your teachers would be proud! Happy Monday !! Login to Reply L Milton Hankins Date: 8/22/2022 8:36:00 AM Thanks so much, Mike. Well, I hope so. This was a trip down memory lane. Yeah, most of my teachers encouraged my efforts. Hope you are off to a good start in the new week.

Shirley Hawkins Date: 8/21/2022 5:15:00 PM Good luck in the contest, Milt.. I think it's a winner too! Login to Reply L Milton Hankins Date: 8/21/2022 7:07:00 PM Thank you so much, Shirley. I hope so.

Andrea Dietrich Date: 8/21/2022 8:22:00 AM this is PERFECTO, Milt. I smell a WIN! Login to Reply L Milton Hankins Date: 8/21/2022 7:08:00 PM Thanks so much, Andrea, because I could use one about now!

Mark Koplin Date: 8/21/2022 5:02:00 AM I remember that same feeling and I could not wait to be done. Now I appreciate it all and I wish I could go back. Login to Reply L Milton Hankins Date: 8/21/2022 7:08:00 PM I think that's a common feeling, Mark. Why else would we enjoy those reunions so much?

Jenna Logan Date: 8/21/2022 3:46:00 AM I loved the lifer line, Milt. I sometimes thought of school as a prison, but looking back, it was truly a Godsend to prepare me for the future classrooms of the world. Login to Reply L Milton Hankins Date: 8/21/2022 7:08:00 PM So true, Jenna. I appreciate your thoughtful comment.

Gershon Wolf Date: 8/20/2022 7:57:00 PM Nice one, Milt. I think most of us guys felt like 'lifers' in school... though many of us were grateful down the road a bit. Lots of truth and wisdom in this one. ! ~ Gw Login to Reply L Milton Hankins Date: 8/21/2022 7:09:00 PM Thanks, gw, so much. I really appreciate your thoughtful comment.

Michael Tor Date: 8/20/2022 2:30:00 PM Tlhere is hope in our Children Milton. You are correct in all you say. Our Teachers made a difference in our lives. I remember all my special teachers, there is a shortage of fine teachers out there. You never forget the ones who cared, and it wasn't just a paycheck for them. Thanks for sharing Milton, they really are our future, the kids being taught today...8p4 Login to Reply Michael Tor Date: 8/20/2022 6:24:00 PM It is sad I hope it turns around... L Milton Hankins Date: 8/20/2022 3:03:00 PM I think so, Michael. I'm concerned about the stringencies and restrictions placed on today's teachers, and I understand that huge numbers of them are leaving teaching. Some states are in an emergency situation to find qualified teachers. It's sad.