The Family Files series of literary poems by David D. Gilbaugh and adapted for use as classroom discussion prompts for young adults. These short poems include themes of child neglect and abuse, family secrets (myths), shame and blaming, intervention, trust, redemption, recovery, and breaking the inter generational cycle of abuse.
The Family Files are intended for learners ages 14 and up.
THE COMPLETE FAMILY FILES 1-6
File #1 EMPTY LUNCH BAGS
Walking single file,
they marched to school alone,
clenching empty lunch bags,
as if they were OK,
learning how to warm themselves with snow.
File #2 BLAME'S RAZOR
Looking up at smiles,
they long for others joy.
If grip blame's razor slips,
their crimson threat of shame;
learning how to heal their cuts with hush.
File #3 INTERVENTION
Heaven seeing, being,
through eyes in human faces,
past dry tears in salesman-smiles.
Intervening arms embraced,
learning how to grasp the hands of grace.
File #4 SMILING EYES
Looking up with joy
they watch with smiling eyes,
squeezing hands embracing,
finding they're Ok,
learning trusting others keeps them safe.
FILE #5 FREED FROM THE GRASP OF FATE
Walking side by side,
children grown - tomorrow's wed,
cut, the generations thread,
that cursed them to repeat,
learning how to change the hand of fate.
Walking parents graced;
guarding innocence their role.
Stopped the sickness by friend's grace.
Parents being, children seeing,
learning how to guard their love in truth.
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Comments: 14
Yes, lots to consider, and many students will open up. However, credentialed Health teachers are trained (and are strongly advised) to stay work within the parameters of their professional job description in this are, just as in any other sector of their curricula.
Being so sensitive a subject there needs to be a little space for the ideas to separate and rise above the emotion. I appreciate your comment very much.
These will be wonderful tools for discussion and learning.....and will aid in getting kids to open up. Thank you so much for sharing.
I am happy that you found them important and see their usefulness. I didn't know about your experience with a group home. You are terrific.
Marilyn
Your writing is so powerful. I have to admit that it made me cry. It was so beautiful to see your words come full circle. All we can do is not repeat what we endured. Thank you for sharing it with me. I consider you a a true friend here on Gather!