Walk Through That Door
"You're old," were the words that were said to me
Delivered in mocking hate
To confuse and hurt and to deeply disturb
My newly-retired state.
"But what are words worth?" the poet declared.
And I set out to analyse them.
Words deflate and conspire, reduce or inspire
Depending on how you view them.
I was worn to the bone on that February morn
As I skimmed through the Guardian newspapers
Saw that Alta was looking for new volunteers
To tutor its literacy learners.
Reading and writing I did with ease
Spelling likewise was not a chore
Till the first day of training revealed to me
literacy teaching was that and much more.
It was irregular words, long and short vowel sounds
Schwas and consonant blends did amaze me.
Strategies and mnemonics, once passing terms
Now set in a context to aid me.
No resting on laurels in the Alta classroom
Observation and training are structured
All designed to ensure the bar holds steady
Or is raised, but never lowered
Is there someone like me across these isles
Made to feel the ball stops at the boundary?
I say, 'perish the thought' the Alta team will create
A space for your skills in its family.
Staff and tutors you'll find most gracious and kind
Quick to give you a measure of confidence.
Get your chin off the floor, walk through that door
And into the Alta experience.
Rubina Roberts
Tunapuna Boys RC Level 1
INFO
?Volunteer, Donate, Sponsor-a-student. Call 624-2582 or email altapos.tt@gmail.com for more info. Like us on Facebook or check out our YouTube Channel: Adult Literacy Tutors Association.