Poem by a Red-Leaf Host Family Mom

This poem was written in the early morning on Monday April 13th by one of the host family moms.

When she shared it with me this morning at the school, it brought tears to my eyes and hers.

I read it to the teachers and children as we were heading for the airport. When I finally managed to finish reading the poem, there was a HUGE applause and then silence. You could then hear the sniffles.

It’s hard to believe two weeks have passed
The time has gone by oh so fast

The first time we met was at the school
The temperature was mighty cool

All bundled in a coat and ready to start
We know there was excitement in your heart

The first little while was really tough
Our love for you wasn’t enough

You missed home with mom and dad
And your crying made us really sad

But we pressed on and spent the time
And you started to feel just fine

So many memories we have shared
We never knew how much we cared

And now this day it has arrived
We know we are glad to be alive

To have shared our lives with one so sweet
The expereince has been really neat

But now it is time to say goodbye
To our new friend who has to fly

With sadness in our hearts and tears in our eyes
We thank you for touching each of our lives

On behalf of Red Leaf Student Programs, thank you for hosting and sharing your experiences with the visiting students and teachers.

Thank you Cindy for such an inspiring poem.

Debbie Beally