T E E N S

T otally energetic they usually arrive

E very single day with a big smile.

E ach of them with a unique singularity

N one of them is never the same.

A gainst all odds my friends they become

G iving me a different perspective of life.

E ndless hours of knowledge we share

R arely do we agree on everything.

S ome of them are sarcastic, others are happy and fun but without a doubt my heart they own

Carlos Gonzalez Franco.

Crucial Years

Dear teacher,

When it comes to teaching teenagers

Never deem them absurd or strangers

They are wandering at crossroads

And undergoing changing behaviors

To find themselves in their own sculptures



Dear teacher,

Adolescence is a developmental phase

Teens are vulnerable these crucial days

Busying themselves clearing up the haze

Relying on their own to elbow their ways

Be patient! it is but a temporarily craze



Dear Teacher,

Dealing with teens is ne’er humdrum

They are curious and adventuresome

They seek autonomy and freedom

In their kingdom you are welcome

If you understand their own anthem



Dear teacher,

Tailor your activities to engage them

Let them feel important and awesome

Evince interest in their lives and realm

Carefully, allow them to be at the helm

Together, you can indite a lovely poem

© Chaouki M’kaddem, Tunisia

January 12th, 2013