A teachers task is never done
When, in the class room, with minds to be won;
Were it only for those young minds to reach
It would be so simple just to teach,
But there are many other things to do
In the daily round, and here are just a few;
Checking the crazy ones –
Curbing the noisy ones –
Lifting the lazy ones –
Consoling the fearful ones –
Deflecting the clinging ones –
Comforting the tearful ones –
Calming the excited ones –
Encouraging the timid ones,
And, in between, when there are times
To lay some foundations in those young minds
So, in later years, they may pause awhile
To recall teacher with a rueful smile.
June 2005