Every time I
hear the word
I hear letters
spoken in her voice,
helping with homework
etching them forever in head
while scribing in pencil
on triple-lined paper
a testament to dedication.
T-E-A-C-H-E-R.
Not by degree
but design.
Her mind an acrobat
in perpetual motion
two moves ahead.
Always absorbing,
setting a model
for two generations
of children she loves.
S-T-R-O-N-G.
Hard to imagine
what it is
to lose an eye
to be near-blind
to face brutality
from a killer within
and return victorious,
smiling, standing fast
to face challenges ahead.
C-A-R-I-N-G.
Her way and life
letting you know
with hugs and cornbread
and fresh clean sheets
Johnny Carson and
Thanksgiving dressing
and songs in a rocking chair
late at night
how safe you are
inside her home
reflecting her love.
L-O-V-E.
N-A-N-A.
