How Times Have Changed

Summer sun embraced the verdant meadow Sprinkling golden waves of heat across the lea From tall Black-eyed Susans and Goldenrod, To the cool, rippling brook where crayfish stay Hidden beneath the moss-covered limestone, Where young, barefoot boys were wont to play Those were times now consigned to long ago Because of dangers and bizarre cultural norms, Children play in public parks carefully attended By parents, or guardians, or men in uniforms, Spend their leisure time with game computers Interested in how the latest pop star performs. Teenagers tell me I am too old to understand, But their minds have become a vast wasteland. NINTH PLACE WINNER written June 20, 2021 for "Contemporary Sonnet" Poetry Contest sponsored by Charlotte Puddifoot