Poems
What are our responsibilities to ourselves and others as members of a community?
What are our responsibilities to ourselves and others as members of a community?
Choose at least one of the poems below to read. Located at the bottom of the page is a supplemental activity you can use to take notes as you read.
This short poem expresses the speaker’s hope that the universe is looking out for her in the same way that she is looking out for her dog.
This poem is about how we sometimes deceive ourselves into thinking we are doing good in the world, but we miss the opportunity to do the small things that might make a big difference.
In this poem, the speaker reflects on the struggles and discouragement of public service and how sometimes even our best attempts to make a difference are not enough to make an actual difference. (Closed captioning available on the video)
In The Book of Delights, poet Ross Gay committed to writing every day for a year about something that delights him. He collected his best reflections into one book. Short and sweet, “Sharing a Bag” asks us to consider what we gain when we do things with others – especially things “we could manage just fine solo."
Amanda Gorman's stirring poem, "The Hill We Climb," captured hearts worldwide with its call for hope, resilience, and unity in the face of division. Presented at the 2021 U.S. Presidential Inauguration, Gorman's words resonate with a vision for a better, more inclusive future, urging each of us to rise to the challenges we face together. With poetic grace and bold optimism, she reminds us that rebuilding and progress require courage and collective effort. This powerful piece is a timeless reminder of the strength found in unity and the shared journey toward justice and equality.
"Make a copy" of the following activity and use to takes notes over the poems you read.