Janice Canerdy Poet Blank verse

Notes About The Poem

I wrote this in honor and memory of Mrs. Vernis Collins, who recently died at age 97. She taught me in third grade and again in high-school freshman language arts. She taught so much more than English and poetry.

entered in Karen Jones's My Favorite Teacher contest on September 9, 2024

Never To Be Forgotten

For you, the first to teach me poetry,
I wrote a little poem at age nine.
I don't remember writing any more
till I had you for English in ninth grade.

One day when we were talking at your desk,
I saw a single laminated sheet.
I took a closer look and realized
the childish cursive on the page was mine.

You'd saved "My Winter Poem" all those years
and brought it as my gift. I almost cried.
I smile now as I vividly recall
this scene from over fifty years ago.

As teacher and librarian, you earned
the praise of all. We recognized your love
of students, language, books, and our small school.
We knew how much you wanted us to learn.
			
If I had never told you how I felt,
beyond that day when I was just a teen,
I'd be without excuse, but I did claim
the opportunities to give you praise.

In our last conversation at a school
reunion just a few short years ago,
I told you how I often think of you
when choosing just-right words for poetry.

I recently shared memories of you
with others who held you in high regard.
We wiped our tears and said our last good-byes
to one who taught much more than books and rules.

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Eve Roper November 1, 2019 at 10:54 PM A great tribute to your teacher she would have loved it, Janice , congratulations on your winning placement. Hugs Eve Janice Canerdy November 2, 2019 at 9:30 AM Thanks so much, Eve. Janice

Anne-Lise Andresen October 31, 2019 at 2:21 PM - The teacher you will never forget ... congratulations on your great winning poem, Janice :) - hugs // Anne-Lise :) Janice Canerdy November 2, 2019 at 9:30 AM Thanks so much, Anne-Lise. Janice

Richard Lamoureux October 12, 2019 at 11:00 AM What a beautiful piece. It is very touching. Might I suggest that you add your first poem as I am sure many would love to read the seeds of your artistry. I expect this one will be high on the winners list. Janice Canerdy October 12, 2019 at 12:36 PM I have lost that poem! Of all things to lose! I just remember lines about sitting near the fire eating a bowl of oatmeal. Richard, you are SO encouraging--building others up. And you are a great poet. Thank you. Janice

Quoth Theraven October 11, 2019 at 12:16 AM Janice, You have a real gift in this memory and verse. Your touching recount of what a wonderfully thoughtful teacher, Mrs. Collins was to you needed to be told. Thank you for sharing this. Would so love to read 'My Winter Poem'. For now, the treasures remain. -Richard Janice Canerdy October 11, 2019 at 9:29 AM Richard, thanks so much for this great comment. Will read your poem now. :-) Janice

Andrea Dietrich October 6, 2019 at 8:19 PM wow, she lived a long time. My favorite was also a writing teacher but from high school and now i Have to try to remember her name . I recently learned it and need to find it again! This was an outstanding tribute to her.

Rico Leffanta October 6, 2019 at 1:40 PM You are an exceptional person for remembering and acknowledging! Well done! Aloha! Rico Janice Canerdy October 6, 2019 at 1:48 PM Thanks so much, Rico. Janice

Silent One October 6, 2019 at 7:50 AM i think this is one of your best poems, what a lovely tribute and it was so heart felt.... brilliant.. Janice Canerdy October 6, 2019 at 1:49 PM S.O., your comment has made my day! Thank you so much. Janice

Regina Mcintosh October 5, 2019 at 9:55 PM This is a wonderful dedication. She would love it. Bless you always, With love, Gina Janice Canerdy October 5, 2019 at 10:41 PM Thanks so much, Regina. Janice

Vijay Pandit October 5, 2019 at 2:45 PM This is so heartfelt tribute and memorial to your teacher. Excellent write from start to finish..enjoyed the soft tone and gratitude of your words. All the best, Janice. Janice Canerdy October 5, 2019 at 4:21 PM Thanks so much, Vijay! Janice