April 17, 2024
Paula Garrett is an environmental reporter, scientist, and artist. She has written for Parks and Recreation, Legacy, and The Surface Project, and has worked at the university level as well as the secondary and elementary school levels as a research chemist and science teacher. She has lead research projects in the wilds of the Nevada desert, from tracking the efforts of shepherds in northern Nevada to studying the lives of rare butterflies in Red Rock Canyon.
Seventeen (A note to my high school students)
Welcome to seventeen
A memorable age to be sure
Memories of childhood behind
The future ahead - obscure
Welcome to seventeen
No longer a child but not quite an adult
One minute mature and collected
Next crying in the bathroom because of an insult
Welcome to seventeen
On becoming the person you were meant to be
It's a long, arduous journey
That leads to the chance to be free
Welcome to seventeen
Remember to stay true to your heart
Through the winds and twists of life
The journey is the best part
Welcome to seventeen
Step forward with courage and grace
Know that it is all worth it
It’s time to find your place