I’m posting this poem as we have embarked on another school year. I wrote it reflecting on a leadership journey and my thoughts around the opportunities to work with others in the service of learning. Maybe something will resonate with you.

It is a wonderful opportunity

These learnings that unfold

All drawn here, time afforded

What we do remains untold

The luxury of thinking

Truth in stories’ sound

Avenues of exploration

Connect on sacred ground

Some obligation now befalls

In the harbour for this crew

Freedom from what assails

Sailing to stay true

Where our masts do moor

Our compass has the way

Guided guides, we’re guiding

Each and every day

And is that not the point

No matter where oceans flow

Kindly lifting layers

Wherever we may go

It is not simply a calling

Or project of affinity

It is powerful in purpose

Most important responsibility

Swaying struggle does confound

Chosen of the scarcity

Somewhere in the roiling waves

Diving depths for clarity

Perched in the crow’s nest

Broad is the view

Finding the right berth

Not adrift, nor askew

All the, or the all-consuming questions

Their ever present stare

An open space afforded

At the cost of souls laid bare

If we can see to an end

If stormy waters navigate

If extended our forward bridge

If, then is the state

Now we must voyage proudly

Reflecting where we’ve come

New waters on the horizon

What, but Carpe Diem

We cannot be fearful

Of the ripples in our wake

We can only be courageous

When the future is at stake

So take care of each and all

Look for the ways to lift

Remember you are enough

And to lead, is a true gift