“Your choice today. Continue
with your GED lessons or
watch the inauguration.”
That GED can mean a new
start, early release, a second
chance, freedom, hope.
All eight turned their backs
on history, to earn a ticket
back out to The Free.
But a few snuck glances back
at the TV. Those looks lingered,
turned to stares and held.
When they said, “Please rise,”
four kids rose and stood at
attention. I joined them.
One young man said, “I can’t believe it.
I can’t believe it. I’ll tell my kids
I was locked up, but I still saw
Obama become president.
I can’t believe it.” After the ceremony,
they went back to their work,
compelled by new determination
to get all the answers right.
—
This is for Read Write Poem’s weekly prompt to write something about Obama’s Inauguration or about new beginnings.
8 Comments | Filed under: poems and poetry and teaching | Tagged: obama, poems, read write poem
I know these kids. I saw that “hope trickling down” onto smaller faces too, that big day.
I like the way you write.
Beautifully written, you’ve captured a moment in time here – like a snapshot!
Welcome to read write poem. Really like the message here. I work with kids trying to avoid this scenario. Working with them is inspiring. Thanks.
Nice. Captures a point-of-view of an inspiration-thirsty viewer. (I hope!)
Well captured moment in history!
Welcome to RWP!
illicitly intertwined
Thank you all for visiting and for your kind words. I’ve really enjoyed my experiences with RWP this week and intend to continue.
nicely done…looking forward to reading more of your words