First Day
Children clatter into the classroom
I wait, and hope, and watch
Their laughter slowly quietens
My breath has nearly stopped
Curious eyes try hard to catch
mine, downturned, refuse the match
“There is a new child in class today”
face red hot, heart in flames
“You all know just what to say”
my inside out shout just go away
“Please now, lets make Sam welcome”
In chorus voices singsong my name
and hope bursts forth, broken chains
At last I look, and of course I see
nineteen grinning faces just for me
I remember the anxious night before
I remember the tantrum on the floor
I remember the fears of what could be
I cherish the greeting that set me free
