This morning, before starting my class, I stopped for a coffee at the Zara Library, the local library in Milan's Zara district. In the hallway, there were several works created by children from Milan's elementary schools. I was very struck by this poem, written by fourth-grade children:  Like a fist to the face, Silence is a loser's disgrace. Maybe lack of staying power, Maybe a misfortunate hour, Maybe you just need to cower no more, Wanna change? Then settle the score. Now's the time, to the fore! Hanging by a thread, in silence deep, While verbal storms their vigil keep, And truths unspoken make you weep, Or cut you till your senses creep. A straight shot, tear the system down, From deep within the spirit's ground, Where they conspire to see you drown. So fight them back and claim your crown, Don't be played, don't be fooled, Lest your very essence ruled. If you don't want your future cooled. Life is my school, that's my creed, To the word, I plant the seed. Yes, to the word, all power concede! Subject, verb, and object clear, No more waiting, your time is here. Vanquish every doubt and fear. Don't just stand and watch the show, Let your truest spirit flow, Let your voice resound and grow: **GIVE POWER** **TO THE WORD**