That's What Books Are For Poem by Jim Yerman

When I was young my parents would read me story books
filled with Fairy Tales, fantastic adventures…and more…
I assumed t bringing our family together and putting children to sleep…
that's what books were for.

As I grew a little older we'd talk about the stories…
I'd ask questions and then we'd talk some more….
I assumed stimulating healthy discussions…
that's what books were for.

In school…inside the classroom
reading children's books no more…
I assumed teaching math and science and literature
that's what books were for.

When I started reading books I chose…on subjects I wanted to explore
I came to a different assumption as to what books are for:

To stir up our emotions …to make us think and question life a little more…
to help us understand who we are and who we want to me…
that's what books are for…

Here is something I have learned I wish more people could know…
books provide sustenance for our souls,
nourishment for our brains and encourage our hearts to grow…

If I am right…and this is what books are for…
then I wish more people would understand…
all that we are giving up…
when even one book is banned