Afton, I’ve been thinking about your poem ever since your post, and I’m not going to let another night go by without commenting. I so value your honesty and your willingness to wrestle with some bitter-sweet questions and feelings. I think often when we’re on the edge of discovery and new possibilities, we’re reluctant to take that first leap. But oh — the expanded views we get, when we do!
My guess is that your special teacher and friends are going to be missing you a whole lot (not forgetting). And you’ll all be growing this coming year and finding new ways to share what you all are experiencing on both sides of the pond.
When you return, I’m guessing that — along with your expanded view of the world and a new language — you’ll also see “home” with fresh eyes. So much to look forward to.
Bon voyage! 🇫🇷😘 And we’re eager to see the poetry that is born from your adventure. ~diane
There are so many possibilities to explore in this new place, and yes, I'll just have to trust that people back home know that, too, and that I will not lose my place there just because of one year. Thank you so much!!
What a beautiful way to navigate complicated feelings, Afton. I can feel a sense of unknowing and sadness as well as curiosity and hope. I feel longing and wondering. A perfect poem for being 12 and heading on a grand adventure! I love each stanza. So grateful to know that you see poetry as a good way to meet this adventure and I can’t wait to read more! Love you so much and am still celebrating you. Sad I won’t get to hug you this summer but thrilled for your journey to France. 🫶
PS Love your Mark Peters nod. I have heard him say that and it makes me smile to see it immortalized in your poem. 🥰
Love that you’re processing all the big feelings associated with this big move. ❤️❤️❤️
Afton, I’ve been thinking about your poem ever since your post, and I’m not going to let another night go by without commenting. I so value your honesty and your willingness to wrestle with some bitter-sweet questions and feelings. I think often when we’re on the edge of discovery and new possibilities, we’re reluctant to take that first leap. But oh — the expanded views we get, when we do!
My guess is that your special teacher and friends are going to be missing you a whole lot (not forgetting). And you’ll all be growing this coming year and finding new ways to share what you all are experiencing on both sides of the pond.
When you return, I’m guessing that — along with your expanded view of the world and a new language — you’ll also see “home” with fresh eyes. So much to look forward to.
Bon voyage! 🇫🇷😘 And we’re eager to see the poetry that is born from your adventure. ~diane
There are so many possibilities to explore in this new place, and yes, I'll just have to trust that people back home know that, too, and that I will not lose my place there just because of one year. Thank you so much!!
What a beautiful way to navigate complicated feelings, Afton. I can feel a sense of unknowing and sadness as well as curiosity and hope. I feel longing and wondering. A perfect poem for being 12 and heading on a grand adventure! I love each stanza. So grateful to know that you see poetry as a good way to meet this adventure and I can’t wait to read more! Love you so much and am still celebrating you. Sad I won’t get to hug you this summer but thrilled for your journey to France. 🫶
PS Love your Mark Peters nod. I have heard him say that and it makes me smile to see it immortalized in your poem. 🥰
Thank you so much! I am so happy that I was able to convey these feelings, that was exactly what I was going for! I love you!
Love you too!