A Poem of Thanks-Giving

By Elia Rocha & Samantha V. 

Parents sometimes give us things; small tokens of their esteem, or little gifts to say thank you. We've gotten sweet treats, homemade cards, and other unique signifiers that point to the reciprocal relationships parents have with teachers.  Beyond the thing itself, though, is the thought that counts. That's because these gifts are expressions of the hard-earned trust that parents have given us to care for what's most precious to them during what is often the hardest time in their lives.  

One of the most memorable gifts we've received came from Samantha, a young mother of two.  She and her husband were laid off, one right after the other, and they suddenly found themselves without a home and without any income.   Wary, Samantha brought her two little ones to the Play House North while she and her husband went about rebuilding their lives.  They eventually both found work and housing, and exited the program soon after.

Here is what she wrote for us when they left. 

Giving Thanks by Samantha V. 

Jobs are lost
And homes are gone.
As parents, we must
Still be strong. 

          Children need not
          Know our plight.
          They deserve 
          Sound sleep at night.

In the morning
When we rise,
And our little angels 
Open their eyes,

          May they have a 
          Warm, safe place to go
          Where the stress of the day
          They'll never know.

Where values are taught
And lessons are learned. 
Respect is given, and
Respect is earned. 

          Bellies full and
          Talents molded,
          Bad behavior,
          Never scolded.

Loving hugs and
Hands to hold, 
Circle time where 
Stories are told.

          A place where the innocent
          Know no sorrow.
          Children Today
          Brings a brighter tomorrow. 

Big brother

Little sister