TENDER TEACHER

(For P.W.F.)


I dedicate these tears
to the innocence of years
when one glad child was shown
the mysteries of herself alone.
With love you tamed this creature,
Oh thou, my tender teacher.

Delirious intent
bade discipline repent,
made thou a hapless suitor
and I, thou wanton user.
When passion fed our features
were thou my tender teacher.

Gentle hands, I shant forget
thy loving face without regret.
Tender tears of last farewell
became my scourge, a citadel.
Oh God, lend me thy succor,
Find rest, my tender teacher.

Copyright 2001 by Janice Hale-Hobby