Be a Cheerleader
By CHANA PERMAN
Be a cheerleader
here’s where to start
clap and applaud
when you see another’s art
He claims it’s not a poem,
just thoughts scribbled quickly
How beautiful and brave
You may dare to disagree
She’s got a new shade of lipstick
or sporting a fun hairdo
Why not weigh in
with a compliment or two?
Progress in any area
even at snail’s pace
deserves a happy shout-out
(points for smile on your face)
Why hold back
how hard can it be
Exercise sharing
one kind word or three
Be a cheerleader!
The world could use a few
Be a cheerleader!
(and
know
I’m
cheering
for
you)
Originally from New York City but currently living in Toronto, Canada, CHANA PERMAN is a Jewish poet, mother and learning strategies instructor. She holds a Master’s Degree in special education, and has worked in that field for 25 years. Her cherished roles as mother, teacher and guidance consultant provide inspiration and material for her writing, both prose and poetry.