Introduction

I feel these poems complement each other perfectly. It is as if Hughe's poem is responding to Weatherford's.  Before reading this poem, allow children to close their eyes and imagine they are fifteen years older. Ask children about their adult lives. Encourage them to share their dreams for the future.

Where I live

Where I live

There are no trees to climb, but I still

Reach for the stars.

My dreams take root

In concrete,

And my branches

Lift the sky.

                                              Carole Boston Weatherford

The Dream Keeper

Bring me all your dreams,

You dreamers

Bring me all of your

Heart melodies

That I may wrap them

In a blue cloud-cloth

Away from the too-rough fingers

Of the world.

                                                                Langston Hughes

Extension

Have children create their personal "Dream Keeper", a craft notebook where they may write their dreams, personal thoughts, or whatever else they wish to include. Encourage children to be create with designs and make them attractive. (use cardboard, yarn. ribbons, and pieces of colored paper as well as paint and markers for this craft)