Poetry group brings out the inner ashe

Ashé means strength. Strength was one of the many lessons the students learned from the ReadNex Poetry Squad, which visited Burchell High School Nov. 15, 18 and 19. The ReadNex spoke to every student and staff member in a different way.

The first day of the group’s visit was a get-to-know-each¬-other sort-of day.

Most students were excited about participating with the poetry group. They asked us about a time we’ve felt different.

I felt different every time I moved (I’ve moved around a lot.) I shared a connection with a couple of the ReadNex who had a similar childhood. They understood the things I’ve been through.

Our next focus was spontaneity. We played various games and let our minds roam. We wrote a poem as a school, students contributed by shouting out words to put into a “word bubble.” We learned that we all have at least a little bit in common. By the end of the day we had formed a bond with the ReadNex and they had earned our respect because we could relate to each other.

Our final day was bittersweet. We did exercises that reinforced the confidence we had gained earlier in the week. The poets who were presenting were called up one by one to read their work. It was such an adrenaline rush for me and I was so nervous. When I read my final sentence and looked into the crowd, my fellow classmates started to cheer and I felt amazing. I felt free. I had never shared my poems before. I gained that courage from working with ReadNex.

The ReadNex squad’s week with Burchell was very beneficial. Its members helped us come together and understand each other better. The school seems closer now that the students have found common ground. It’s because of the ReadNex that I have started writing and sharing more of my work. I’ve found my ashé.

Alayna Barton is a student at Burchell High School.