In Response To If

Beware, my friend, of Kipling's thoughts on "man". He claims to know just how and what it takes, And even expounds on a fool proof plan - Which instead of a man, a fool he makes. I absorbed his poem and was thrilled to try To prove my manhood to all who would doubt. Over again I read the reasons why I would be considered a man throughout. I am a taker of shortcuts, it's true. I skipped to the part on risking it all, And bet on a horse whose rider he threw. I am a pauper with that jockey's fall. Kipling did not talk of starting again Standing in just his underwear like me. My wife took the car and didn't say when She'd return - she just said "IF" don't you see. 10-8-18 Silent One's contest In Response To If