I wrote this short poem in February 2025 about an activity that occurs in neighbourhoods everywhere – the morning gatherings when children get on school buses and adults gather for a few minutes of socialisation and connecting. I am an honorary member of the adult group as I walk my dog every morning and get to join in this neighbourhood connection.
It’s 8 o’clock and the clock rings out
Bus is coming and there is no doubt
Children dress with their school sacks
And parents put in forgotten snacks
With loving hugs, they open doors
Out onto the street they all do pour
Each family hurries while they do talk
Joined by a man and dog out for a walk
They all gather where the bus will stop
With a hello and stories, they do swap
The children pet the dog and do play
Still hoping there is no school day
The bus appears from down the street
A final hug, then a scurry of little feet
Cries of ‘have a good day’ and ‘I love you’
The children now lined up in a queue
The kids are gone with a final wave
The parents hoping they’ll each behave
With a smile, it is now parent time
A moment to connect before work bells chime
A check in and the day plans for each
A laugh, a smile and some adult outreach
Neighbours sharing tales and showing care
Like gathering around an old rocking chair.