This image was chosen because this picture looks like home to me. I was born and raised here, and it will always be my home. I was told growing up that “Home is where your heart is”, and I think my heart will always be in the city of Detroit.
This is a poem from a student inspired by how they connected to nature during a fieldtrip to test the water at the Detroit River, and Bloody Run Creek this school year. Enjoy!
“I move in small waves
it’s raining a little
coating the river with rain
birds enjoy eating fish deep within me
sometimes when it’s really hot out
the children come to play and build sandcastles
or float in my arms
I am mother to those who need me
I am home to those who know me
I am nurturing and protecting
I am deep
I am scary
I am home to beings a mere human won’t understand
humans fear what they can’t control”
By: Lenzia, 8th Grade
Teacher: Charlene Jones, The James and Grace Lee Boggs School, Detroit
Subject: Detroit
Theme: General Place-Based Education
Type: Poetry
Lenzia, this is the first of many many poems I expect to see out in the world from you. It takes a unique sensitivity and perspective to be a writer and this is poem is a strong indicator of that raw talent that comes along with writing. Do not give this up for anything or anyone.
Poetry and science are a beautiful combination!
Wow! I love the line “coating the river with rain”–water on water but two separate things, river and rain. You’ve done the work of a poet–to create a powerful image in reader’s mind. You’ve done that for me. And I love that this is written from the river’s perspective!
Lenzia, your poem takes me to Belle Isle on a sunny day enjoying the beauty of the river. You are right – water IS beautiful, caring and scary!