To Stare

We teach our children not to stare
But human nature bests us
For seeing someone not the norm,
Despite our efforts, tests us.

The wheelchair-bound, the little folk,
The scarred and the tattooed;
To all who differ from the rest,
Our eyes get drawn and glued.

Of course, we quickly turn away
(Except the rude, who don’t)
But even just that little glance
Reminds us that we won’t

Be able, from our fragile perch
Upon the status quo,
To understand how life must feel
When people view you so.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2017

Poem

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Johnson Avatar
April 16, 2017 at 8:42 PM
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and so is ugliness. It's a burden that we all must shoulder and aspire to kindness.
Allison Avatar
March 31, 2017 at 2:28 AM
You have such insight Ilene, what a super poem:-) I can only agree with Connie and Tim's comments but I would have this as a teaching age from infant school age - they are never too young to learn.Having worked with special needs students for many years I do find many kids are very understanding of those who are slightly different:-) hugs Jan xx
Marcum Wong Avatar
March 30, 2017 at 7:30 PM
This poem should be used to teach children in grammar school how to view others who are bit different. It could be a useful tool. Wonderfully written Ilene. A fave! 7 ; )
Smith Avatar
March 30, 2017 at 3:36 PM
It is human nature...anything out of the norm we are drawn
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