Precious Cargo

The sidewalk stretched for miles that concrete roadside line. It swerved and curved, and dipped and rose. Alongside U.S. 29. We knew each crack, and every hole. and every bump and drain. Knew when to coast the downhills and when to grind the chain. Our bikes gave us our freedom. We rolled and strolled and went to every little country store where dimes and nickels spent. We'd gather up five bottles to equal one thin dime. And that was always just enough For RC-Cola time. Those carefree days of riding when ne'er a danger stood. To school and towns and ball fields, most any place we could. Those days seem gone forever, for evil now abounds. It's hiding in the night air. It lingers on the grounds. So listen children, stay alert. Be careful; don't far go. For you're our hope and future, our sweet, precious cargo. Most precious, priceless cargo.