Once upon some decades ago I can remember sitting outside of the principal’s office contemplating my fate. Being a stubborn learner, occasions like these were far too frequent for my …
This item is available in full to subscribers.
We have recently launched a new and improved website. To continue reading, you will need to either log into your subscriber account, or purchase a new subscription.
If you are a current print subscriber, you can set up a free website account by clicking here.
Otherwise, click here to view your options for subscribing.
Please log in to continue |
|
Once upon some decades ago I can remember sitting outside of the principal’s office contemplating my fate. Being a stubborn learner, occasions like these were far too frequent for my parent’s liking. While most adults might think that young Bob was reflecting upon necessary change – this might not be entirely true. Eventually lessons were learned, but not necessarily in a linear fashion.
Hopefully, the poem Wrinkled Kids can bring a smile to your face. Even though adults have acquired additional responsibilities, that come from time and caring for young people, they might benefit from a little reflection. As for those who never sat outside the principal’s office, I am sure you can relate to other times when the kids just did not listen. Somehow, for most young people, lessons get learned. Enjoy being a wrinkled kid.
Wrinkled Kids
One went for a coffee
Then wound up being late
The other they were vaping
Skipping a class most kids hate
Now both sit there waiting
Outside the Vice Principal’s door
Anticipating after school detention
Or perhaps a little more
Soon came a conversation
From two so unalike
Both appearing somewhat nervous
Decided to take a hike
No one seemed to notice
As they sashayed down the hall
Heading towards rebellion
And feeling ten feet tall
This moment’s insurrection
Anathema for a school
Next led to deep reflection
Of adults and their rules
And from youth’s perspective
Comes a poignant grain
Adults while often caring
Did things bordering on insane
They huddle in the office
Whisper late at night
Adults they always exhort us
To do what is right
At times most are forgetting
Those things they once did
For after all is said and done
They’re simply wrinkled kids
One was thinking about college
At least that’s what they thought
The other to endure the day
Until finally getting caught
Now both together
Enjoyed a brief escape
Thanks to Felicia’s
And a sneaky vape
Upon cursory reflection
It was ever clear
Our recalcitrant interlocutors
Found each other’s ears
Sure there would be penance
And necessary change
But a great lesson came about
From this moment strange
Inevitably entered the authority
With a beckoning glance
Acknowledging that this excursion
Never stood a chance
Three now headed office bound
Sharing an ironic fate
All had much in common
Save experience and birthdate
They huddle in the office
Whisper late at night
Adults they always exhort us
To do what is right
At times most are forgetting
Those things they once did
For after all is said and done
They’re simply wrinkled kids
Skipping class and vaping are certainly not good choices for kids. Rules, boundaries, and expectations are necessary to help young people channel their talents. But, how are these conveyed by the adults? How do we relate to the wonderful and confusing journey children/teens encounter? That is where wisdom gained through your experiences comes in. Perhaps a trip down our own memory lane might help.
Robert Houghtaling is the Director, Substance Abuse Prevention/Mental Health for the Town of East Greenwich.
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here