Things to Say

[karena02]

As I leave school each day, I think to myself, "aww man, I forgot to tell them..." So I thought I'd compile a list and see if it comes out as good as it sounds in my head.

I wish I'd told you to skip lines in your journal, to tidy your desk, to speak kindly to your peer.
I wish I'd remembered to send home your book order and call your mom when you were sick.
I forgot to tell you to take your unfinished work to recess or to pass back those papers.
I wish I'd told you...

I wish I'd told you about the pretest tomorrow, about free dress day on Friday, about the substitute for next week.
I wish I'd remembered to check on your project and respond to your letter.
I forgot to grade your math papers.
I wish I'd told you...

I wish I'd told you to stand up to the bully, to take care of your body, to forgive when it's asked for.
I wish I'd remembered to report those bruises and ask about your father.
I forgot to protect you.
I wish I'd told you...

I wish I'd told you it's not okay for dad to hit mom, for her to call you stupid, for you to believe it.
I wish I'd remembered to give you a hug and a comforting look.
I forgot to tell you you're loved.
I wish I'd told you...

If actions speak louder than words, some days I feel I've said nothing.