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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 © | Year Posted 2022




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Date: 8/23/2022 9:32:00 AM
This is an excellent contender for the contest! Great job!
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L Milton Hankins
Date: 8/23/2022 11:14:00 AM
I hope so. Guess we'll just have to wait and see.
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 !!
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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.
Date: 8/21/2022 5:15:00 PM
Good luck in the contest, Milt.. I think it's a winner too!
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L Milton Hankins
Date: 8/21/2022 7:07:00 PM
Thank you so much, Shirley. I hope so.
Date: 8/21/2022 8:22:00 AM
this is PERFECTO, Milt. I smell a WIN!
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L Milton Hankins
Date: 8/21/2022 7:08:00 PM
Thanks so much, Andrea, because I could use one about now!
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.
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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?
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.
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L Milton Hankins
Date: 8/21/2022 7:08:00 PM
So true, Jenna. I appreciate your thoughtful comment.
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
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L Milton Hankins
Date: 8/21/2022 7:09:00 PM
Thanks, gw, so much. I really appreciate your thoughtful comment.
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
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Michael Tor
Date: 8/20/2022 6:24:00 PM
It is sad I hope it turns around...
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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.

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