Category Archives: Table of Contents

The Teacher

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I started teaching when I was quite young

It was never about teaching, it was mostly about fun

The students would come to my class to learn

It was soon apparent that I wasn’t too stern

I wanted to teach about the ways of life

How to handle yourself amidst crisis and strife

We seemed to talk a lot during our class

Not exactly what students needed for tests to pass

Some days students had more than their share

Of difficulties at home, sometimes from elsewhere

I would listen because they needed to talk

It was part of the job, I didn’t want them to walk

They needed help, and they sought it from me

So, I soon became like a listening tree

I was amazed at what students had to endure

My hope was that talking would help with a cure

Or, maybe just help to see the way ahead

To know life had more for them instead

Instead of the strife that was holding them back

They needed opportunity to start a new track

I have good memories from these many years

Now, thinking about teaching, it brings me to tears

I am thankful for the time I was able to teach

I only hope I gave a positive speech

It wasn’t always easy but I loved it so

Love implanted in my heart for the students I owe


As Little Girls Grow

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I could hear it expressly in her little voice so tight

“I can do it! I can do it!” as she tried with all her might

I did not know if she could, I really did not care

I only cared that she would try surpassing every snare

For her to have the courage to try, she would learn to lean on hope

Knowing this would be her crutch in learning how to cope

For each little baby step she took was huge along the way

It helped secure her footing that she would need each day

And, when she was successful, I saw her face light up

I knew that she would be okay, this child so like a pup

Dr. Caputo

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I don’t think the smile ever left your face

As you led us through Italy at your own special pace

You told us stories of you long ago

We listened intently, it was great, you know?

Your history has grown into a story to hear

A history, when heard, for all to revere

As you retire from Gonzaga, there can be no replacement

People like you are rare because you are a statement

Let me reiterate, you are one for the books

You will be missed, your voice and unique good looks

We thank you wholeheartedly for all that you’ve done

It is time to start retirement as a new type of fun

The Sound of Thinking

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Sometimes when I ponder, my brain begins to wander

I just think about so many different things,

I roll back the time, to when I was in my prime

I may have been enfolded in angel wings

I’m listening to the sound, the pond water is abound

It could be I’m near the mountain springs

But, I’m in my own yard and I’m trying really hard

To picture who and what this new day brings

It is simply relaxing, and not at all taxing

Opening my mouth, I’m amazed that my voice sings

As I sing quite loudly, my dogs watch me proudly

Until I suddenly stop, when the phone rings

The Interview

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I was walking around with nothing to do when my phone rang. It was a surprise to hear the voice on the other end.

“Hi. What are you doing?”

“Nothing really. What about you?”

“I just had a job interview and I’m waiting for the next round.”

“You mean like boxing?”

“Well, no, not really. It is when they do a second interview.”

“What? A second interview. You mean they didn’t hear the first one?”

“Ah, no. It is an interview so they can get to know the candidate better.”

“Oh. Hm. Why don’t they take you out for dinner instead and have a few drinks? Wouldn’t that be better? Relaxed atmosphere, casual conversation.”

“Well, that’s not really how it is done. Not a bad idea, though.”

“I just don’t think I understand the process. I think boxing might work better. They go ten rounds, I think. That would really help to see if the candidate is up to the task.”

“Maybe. I think sometimes a candidate might feel beat up after an interview so maybe they have some similarities.”

“I’m not going to interview anymore. I had interviews but never had a second round. They decided after the first punch. Or, I mean interview. Maybe you should take gloves with you next time. That way, when they say it is time for the second interview, you will be ready with your gloves.”

“I think you are a little confused. They usually just talk during an interview. They don’t use boxing gloves.”

“All I know is sometimes I would rather punch someone than to answer their stupid questions. They could just take me out to dinner and have a few drinks.”

“Yes, you said that.”

“I’ll send you some boxing gloves.”