The Dirigible Balloon
Poetry for Children

Last Word

I came across a twisted oak
Surprising me with what it spoke:
I never ask why I'm an oak.
Or wonder why my limbs are broke.
I make the best of what's for me
while giving thanks that I'm a tree.


I could not bear his words of languish.
That tree has no idea of anguish.
"You don't know all that I've lost."
But I know of winter's frost.
"You live the life your seed projected."
No life is ever as expected.

"How'd you make peace with what is now?"
From the wind I learned to bow.
I hope that you will find your peace.
Now my words to you will cease.

About the Writer


Mona Woods Voelkel

As a Reading Specialist with over 20 years’ experience in the Bronx, Brooklyn and Valhalla, NY, Mona believes that poetry is magic. When poetry is part of a child’s day the words, pictures, and rhythms seep in and stay forever. As a writer, her plays have been staged locally and she is currently writing children’s poetry and picture books. Mona loves to spend time with friends, run along the Hudson River and paddle-board on Green Hill Pond in Rhode Island.