» Poem: The Sun and the Seed

The Sun and the Seed

The tear running down your face The wind blows your dress, the white lace

Sorrow, frustration breaks our minds Sometimes we see things that feel like something, our signs

Signs of love, future, past When memories fade, the best of our past

Silver and gold is all we want, but love and comfort is what we need Sometimes we need someone to push us to the right path, plant the right seed

They watered us and let the sun touch our petals, but never too long They watched us grow, dance, and sing the song

Now it is still not all perfect and kind But there are always the people to give you clouds and rest, and let your clock wind

When all grown they won’t go away but you may find some other game to play

When you need it you can run back The love and kindness they will never lack

They watch and protect, give you advice They will stay quiet and let you live your personal life

You must remember that if you need and shoulder to cry on They will always give you their shoulder, and love, and of course the sun.

ADDISON

age 13, from MA

Addison,

Wow! From the moment I read your first poem, which your dad had posted online, I knew we needed your words in our girls’ magazine. You were only eleven years old. The magazine had just be born, and your poetry enflamed my conviction to build this platform to give voice to girls’ stories and poetry. I’m so glad you continued to submit your work over the past two years. You are gifted, and I hope and pray you continue to write poetry for the rest of your life. It will impact many, stirring feelings and thoughts that people need to feel and have. You’ll spur change, my young friend. There is a profound strength and depth to your poetry that is needed in this world.

If you every need anything—encouragement, advice, a listening ear, a recommendation— please let me know. Your dad has my contact info. It seems he is a fan of your work, and now, I’m one of your biggest fans too.

Keep penning your heart, Addison!

Much love, Cortney Donelson, co-founder and editor of GirlStory magazine, author, and owner and principal writer at vocem LLC.