Today is the first day of school and I am ready with my Pink Pearl eraser. I saw it yesterday in the stationary section of the store. It was yelling at me, “You need to buy me.”
I bought the eraser. It reminded me of my first day of school.
The list from the teacher creased and stained from carrying it in my pocket for weeks.
pencils
ruler
markers
notebook
scissors
binder
The teacher didn’t write this on her list. But I will add these to my list.
Students please pack in your backpack,
kindness
honesty
diligence
loyalty
peace
patience
curiosity
gentleness
self-control
And leave at home,
gossiping
anger
a critical spirit
rage
malice
and deceit
I pray as you start the school year you will find a friend. I pray that no one will feel excluded and that there is always a seat for you at the table. I pray the boy, who was mean to you last year, has changed his heart. I pray the girl who gossiped about you keeps her mouth closed and that she becomes your friend. I pray the bully is now kind. I pray the gossip stops. I pray you will always be included in a game of tag.
I pray that no matter what happens to you on the first day of school, you will never forget that you are loved and treasured and of value. I pray you will always know you are special.
What did you put in your backpack today?
