Metamorphosis

 Cautious Caterpillars
Apprehensively approach my classroom door,
Reluctant to release their mothers’ tight-held hands.

A tangle of tears and smiles
Envelopes their fragile frame
With joy and fear.

Calmly, reassuringly
I take their hands in mine,
And we begin a journey filled with change.

Thus the nurturing begins
Within the confines of this chrysalis
Called “classroom.”

Changing voices can be heard
As “I can’t” becomes
 “I’ll try” becomes “I did it!”

No longer cautious caterpillars
Now emerging butterflies,
Confident and ready for their flight.

Although it happens every year,
I always stand amazed
To witness such a miracle as this.

I hear the rustling of their wings
As my butterflies take flight.
My heart is filled with pride and celebration.

But celebration time is short.
For while memories of sad “goodbyes”
Hang heavy on my heart…

I turn with tear-filled eyes
To see outside my door

More cautious caterpillars
Reluctant to release
Their mothers’ tight-held hands.

Author   Susan K. Hansen
 

Poetry is such a beautiful form of expression and this poem eloquently expresses the emotions of first graders and first grade teachers.