Barbara’s Poetry From The Heart Corner
The teacher stands towered over me
her eyes search fearful ones.
My body stiffens:
scrunch down in the desk
I’m worried
will I pronounce my words correct?
If I stutter or make a mistake
children will poke fun.
My hands tremble:
rest my head on my chest
pick my nails
frown at a spelling paper
words scribbled on the piece.
She speaks…I flinch
her voice scares me
cup my hands over my ears shutting her out.
She walks closer
I withdraw from her.
She squats down beside me:
gently touches the top of my head
builds a secure association with me.
She leans forward, cuddles my finger in hers
places it under words and spells
repeats and pronounces the sounds, dog, cat, rat
my body relaxes…fear passes.
I smile as the words flows.
Barbara Kasey Smith is the writer of this poem – Copyright 2004 – Use by Permission Only.
First printed in Poet of the Year 2004 Poetry Anthology. Barbara’s New Book, Jailbait is
available from lulu.com; Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble – e-book also available.