Excerpts

Grade 1

The Magic Words

There was a poor man

Who listened well;

He heard the magic words.

To the mountain,

Great and bare;

He spoke the magic words.

It opened up

And treasure he found;

He remembered the magic words.

His brother who tried

Had heard only half,

And soon was sealed inside.

Grade 2

Jumping Mouse

Just nagging and nibbling,

Scurrying and scratching

Was not enough

For one busy mouse

Who heard the roar,

Who jumped for more.

With determined will

He challenged all danger,

Beginning his quest

By conquering all fear.

With a compassionate heart

He gave up his sight

In humble mercy

For the life of others.

Then he jumped up high –

An eagle in the sky.

Grade 3

Master Builder

The work of a master

Lies in the search of skill,

Patiently practiced over time.

The master at work

Chooses tools and materials

With care and consideration.

I am my own master,

And each word I speak

Must be carefully chosen.

And each deed I do

Must be patiently considered,

For our mastery is for the love of others.

Grade 6

Wise Fool

Quick of mind, witty, and ever present,

The noblest advisor – the Fool –

No fool can be.

Furtive his wisdom, as he probes his crowd,

Charming lords and ladies,

Humoring the throne.

As sage and psychologist, ultimate artist,

The disguised protagonist

Can lead and guide royal destinies.

Waving his striped scepter,

Wielding his tongue,

He can charm change,

And through humor – heal.