Doing Me

In this poem, a young boy named Ben eagerly awaits the first Saturday of his summer vacation. Ben is excited to go outside to play. After a quick meal, Ben rushes out and attempts to gather his friends for outdoor play. However, after visiting many friends, he is met with various obstacles and finds that his friends can't join him. Disheartened, he sits on his porch, but soon, Ben hears the sound of a marching band approaching. Seizing the opportunity, Ben's mother takes him to watch the Summer Festival Parade. The colorful parade features marching bands, dancers, horses, clowns, and cartoon characters. The spectacle enthralls Ben, and he can't stay seated for long. He can't help joining in the excitement and starts dancing. He ends up joining the parade when a man on stilts invites him to join, transforming his initial fear into joy. Ben dances and marches with the parade, earning applause and encouragement from the crowd. Afterward, he reflects on the experience, feeling proud of himself and doing what made him happy. When Ben returns home, his friend, Jamal, is surprised to learn that Ben was part of the parade, and Ben proudly declares, "I was just doing me." This story underscores the idea that being true to oneself can lead to unexpected and joyful experiences. The poem encourages seizing unexpected opportunities, never knowing what delights we may find. This touching tale, suitable for children ages eight and up and will appeal to both young and mature hearts and those celebrating self-discovery.