"Look Amidst the Trees" - The Chicago Poetry Center

“Look Amidst the Trees”

Last Thursday in my sessions with Brennemann 5th Graders, we talked about gardens and the value of having someone who believes in you. We viewed a video of the poet Joaquin Zihuatanejo, who talked about how he was able to grow in the garden of his abuelo’s belief in him, before performing his poem “Abuelo’s Garden.”

Ms. Keuten 5th Grade

Slowly Singing, Always Singing Monroe C.

Slowly singing
Always singing

I sing because I’m happy
I sing because I’m free
I listen to all these sing songs
I take lyrics to heart

Slowly singing
Always singing

I’ve won things for it
but it’s not about that
I listen to it as an escape

I 100% need it in my life

I listen on full volume for
more happiness

Can’t you see?
it’s a part of me.

Slowly singing
Always singing

I listen at school
I feel cool
but it’s not about that
I need music

Slowly singing
ALWAYS singing.

Ms. Birkeland 5th Grade

Group Collaboration Ms. Birkeland's Class

We are smart
But the world can be harsh
like when people are rude and mean

But if you use your brain
It can bring along the happiness train.

Plant your dreams until you succeed
grow your dreams
watering them with love, effort,
support, and care
warm them with the sun of belief
warm them with the sun of bright people

look amidst the trees
for people who can help your personality bloom
look amidst the trees,
dirt, and water
for people who aren’t against
but people who are for you