(inspired by Angie Greco)
By Jaz
Starved
for attention-
positive or negative
they hate
the skin
they’re in
so callous
because of
their situations
easier for them to
push me away
because of home
easier for them to
envy
than to compliment
easier for them to
slice the knife both ways
so they won’t be the only one wounded
easier to rage-
it’s better than being background noise
easier to act like drywall
To expose the heart is certain death
They
arrive
in
bits
and
pieces
trynna build
on the bricks thrown at them
“It ain’t personal”
Angie says
She’s a Salve
to where their
Word-daggers dig into me
Why do teachers do it?
Because
They Are Worth The Investment
Worth
Wholeness
Worth
Celebration
Worth
Intercessions
Worth
Agape love
Worth
Safe spaces
Worth the breaking of strongholds
And the healing of generations
They are worth the one that God sees…and…saves.
Jaz is an Award-winning Published Poet, Singer, Author, Performance Poet, Playwright, Theater Artist, Songwriter (ASCAP), Composer, and Educator from Philly, PA. She holds an MFA in Creative Writing/Poetry from Goddard College and a BA in Theater from Temple University. Jaz’s poetry is featured in multiple anthologies, literary magazines, and on internet, podcast, and public radio. Her poetry has appeared in the publications Literary House Review, APIARY, The Pitkin Review, and WestWard Quarterly, among others. She has a forthcoming publication in Moonstone Press’s Haiku Day 2024. Jaz performs songs and poetry as a soloist and as a member of For Women Collective: In Tribute to Nina Simone and Philly Jawns. She is blessed to be a public elementary school educator and independent poetry instructor. Jaz is honored to be used as a vessel of Christ whether on or off stage. IG: jazzsingpoet
