Blog

A Poem & Charge to the Graduating Class of 2020

by Derek Nicksich on May 28, 2020

“In love, may we all stand for truth…”

 

The Professor, the Student, and the Serpent: A Poem

Based on Genesis 3

 

A figure emerged, regal and serene.

Thoughts were compiled behind eyeglasses that sheen.

He straightened his tie when the clock struck nine.

He smiled at the thought of the approaching scheduled time.

Masses approached, led like cattle to slaughter.

The topic for debate, “Why religion is no longer a bother.”

The questions soon flew, and emotions flared.

He remained unsettled, though many certainly cared.

“It all began somewhere” someone said.

“Oh really, how so?” 

“It appears to me,” someone said, “that the Bible tells me so.” 

“Well, when I look around, I would say that the evidence suggests no. It seems to me that there is no logical reason to believe. In fact, I would daresay if you would take time to see, you will find that the truth is much easier to conceive.” 

There was silence at first. 

Then some smiled, others groaned.

Many faces were confused, some laughed while others moaned.

One timid girl, a quiet one, raised her hand.

She took a long breath, and proceeded to stand.

“Professor, I do appreciate your opinion on the matter from logical assumption. However, it seems logical to me that our opinions be treated with the same respect instead of disruption. If you believe that everyone has a right to his truth, then what makes mine any lesser than yours? It seems to me, and I certainly don’t mean to be mean, that you are not allowing me to believe that which you do not believe?”

The professor stood silent, his mind reeling from the thought.

An unexpected development, someone not so easily bought. 

He looked at his roll, found her seat and name.

He made a mark next to her seat writing, “two can play this game.” 

He looked up with a smile, and welcomed the class. 

“I look forward to our discussions, hopefully everyone will pass.” 

The professor pivoted his body, turning to the board,

his eyeglasses caught the sun.

Unbeknownst to the class, a serpent slithered

outside the window enjoying the fun.

Its sleek scale-like back caught the sun with a gleam. 

It seemed so peaceful, joyful, content and serene.

Memories flooded the serpent as it slithered away, 

memories of long ago, another time, another place, another day. 

He was the teacher, and his classroom the trees.

They were the students, both Adam and Eve. 

There it began, where truth fell from the tree. 

Today in every class and every home, truth, if not stood up for,

 trampled beneath our feet.

 

Derek Nicksich

May 28, 2020

Previous Page