Today marks the halfway point of my self-imposed 30 day National Poetry Month challenge. And as always happens for me, the more I write, the more easily I’m able to write.  Now, don’t get me wrong, I know these poems are not masterpieces…they are, in fact, all first drafts that would benefit from feedback, revision and more revision.

Returning back to school also means that I can involve students in the revision and feedback process as well.  What will happen when we take the time to select some of our poems to rework and improve?  How can we take inspiration from each other and from published poets as we tackle the difficult task of revising our writing?

Today also marks the last day of spring break for me.  It was a lazy day spent reading and running a few errands…with a lovely beach walk squeezed in too.  As is often the case, I found myself drawn to the seabirds…

Seeking Silence

 

In a world of noise and constant motion

 

I seek silence

in the roar of the surf

as turquoise and blue

tumble to frothy white

 

I seek silence

in the laughter and squeals

of children

plunging headfirst

into the chill of the spring tide

 

I seek silence

in the bobbing sandpipers

searching for snacks at lowtide

crying out warnings

when my camera comes too close

 

In the solace of the ocean and its noise and constant motion

I find a way to quiet my mind

and breathe in silence

 

Douillard 2018

And on this last day of spring break I found a photo and poem from a student in my inbox.  (Thanks to the parents who allowed their children to email poems to me over the break.)

Dew,

Resting its head on its cold plant pillow

Sparkling as the sun shines in them

like a diamond shattered into a million tiny pieces

Showing its power

 

Amelia

How are you spending this mid-point Sunday in April?