Over the past couple of years, I have spent some time working with kids trying to write an “I am” poem. Recently I had another such day. The kids stared at the prompt, not understanding what was required of them. I explained, showed examples, but still the prompt lines confronted and challenged them.
I get it. It’s hard. It’s hard to be both introspective and exhibitionist at the same time. To look inside to who you really are and then share that with a crowd. It’s hard enough for adults to do, let alone children. And it’s hard to do in a chaotic and noisy environment. Such introspection takes mind space and quiet.
So, I decided to give it a try myself. I give you my “I am” poem:
So, what do you think? I had fun with mine. After writing one, I wrote a few more about other roles I have. “I am a wife and mother” about the challenges of parenting. “I am a human and a woman” about the struggles faced by women today (this one strongly influenced by current news topics).
How about you? Want to give it a try? Don’t take it too seriously, unless of course you want to. Email them to me or include them in the comments if you’re feeling brave. Or keep them to yourself. It’s up to you. This will get you started:
