“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. 
Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” 
- Martin Luther King Jr

I teach them.

I teach them about the magic eraser of fresh starts
far more valuable than double digit multiplication
or how to identify an adverb.

I teach them.

I teach them to listen for their own questions
ones that lift and spring forth aliveness.
The ones that come from within.

I teach them.

I teach them in the hot and cold times
heartbreak tsunami, within or without walls.
They are my living hope, my wonder.

I teach them 
and I receive
the beauty of their being.

© Ali Grimshaw 2022

Mural created by the 5th grade students of Mr. Bowen'class at Oak Creek Elementary.
I am honored to support the students and teachers of this amazing school. 
Stay strong.