Shame

It must seem odd

This thing we do

We see your worth

From a certain view

 

We have been there

This much is true

But you’re there now

Not us, but you.

 

And yet we forget

When we were there

We seemed to know

This wasn’t fair

 

We then best knew

What was real

We could think

And we could feel

 

But that all changed

Our memories lost

We forgot our youth

The line was crossed

 

And now from here

We make you do

The things we’d fight

We know it’s true

 

But here we stand

As if we know

How to best take measure

As you grow

 

We’ve pooled our wisdom

Determined what’s best

To judge your worth

We’ve made a test

 

We’ve spent the time

Checked all twice

We’re pretty darn proud

Of our device

 

It will mark and tally

Measure and weigh

And you will be a number

On display

 

Yes, it’s true

I speak not lies

There is no hiding

There’s no disguise

 

But that I suppose

Is already clear

You know the game

We play each year

 

And this year now

We play again

Some will lose

And some will win

 

But let it not

Your youth encumber

You are not data

You are not a number

 

But then why, Sy?

Why weren’t you brave?

Why didn’t you from

This us save?

 

Alas, I don’t know

How to win the game

I’ve let you down

And that’s my shame

 

Maybe someday

I’ll stand taller

For those who can’t

Those much smaller

 

 

But it’s too late now

We face the test

So, let’s do it to spite

Them with our best

 

And if it so happens

You lose the game

I will own it, young friend

I’ll bear the blame

 

You see, I have to.

That’s my shame.

 

Sorry, all, feeling a little sappy and sassy this morning. We start state testing today, and I have let another round get here without saving my kids from this madness. Shame on me.

Do. Reflect. Do Better.