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Poet Daniel Kitmanyen writes: “I’m an Endicott College student in the class of 2026. I study environmental science and want to work in conservation. I love poetry because it’s a great way to express yourself.”

My Caribou

In response to a statue of a Caribou and a young girl nestled against the reclining animal. This was viewed at the Manninen Arts Center at Endicott College in Beverly, MA.

You are not the mother I chose,
You are not the parent I so hoped for,
You are not perfect,
Your mistakes are plentiful,
Your lack of accountability and responsibility
makes me curious how you became a parent,
Yet, you are the mother I needed
You are the foundation I was destined to have,
You are not perfect,
And you make plenty of mistakes,
But like a Caribou,
Who is so white and pure,
You hold me up,
You embrace my soul,
You are not the mother I chose,
But you are the mother I love

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