Poem for My Daughter

Jenn starts college this semester. She is a wonderful young woman. I am so fortunate and proud to have her as my daughter. I wish her a safe and successful journey through academia. May her many discoveries be filled with wisdom as well as knowledge.

Teaching My Daughter to Sing

"Goddess of words, goddess of voice,
Genetic backbone of our ancient grandmothers,
Let her find clarity of mind.
Let her feel the power of sound.
Let her learn the strength of voice,
her woman's voice."

We shall dance in circles
Of strong women
Where she can learn the steps
Of their sacred dance,
Borrow their energy,
And grow wise from their voices.
We shall dance in circles
Of strong women each singing
Their own song.

We shall dance in circles
Where she is safe
To sometimes be out of step,
To sometimes be off key.

We shall dance in circles
Of strong women
Where she can hear clearly songs
That dance within her mind alone,
Where she can boldly move in dances
Of her own making,
And sing with confidence songs
Unique to her voice alone.

Betty Becquart Sanders
©2006