On back to school

The learning will happen

Be confident of that 

This phase is less about their math 

and spelling 

and homework 

and projects 

Than we are led to believe 

This phase 

(Like this whole life) 

Is more about how they show up

Especially to the lonely one

To the uninvited

To the ignored

To the bullied

So encourage your kids to be lookers

And when they find that kid

To speak up

Say yes

Include them

In small brave and kind ways

We’ll support the tests and grades

But let’s celebrate the kindness and bravery 

For these first few days in particular

And then some more

As the days go on