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We navigate our childhoods
With our parents at the wheel,
Smooth sailing for the lucky ones;
For others, an ordeal.

Along the way, we learn and grow,
Absorbing what we see,
Then choosing what we’ll keep or toss,
Deciding who we’ll be.

At some point we can steer ourselves
And once we take control,
Our moms and dads no longer play,
For us, a starring role.

It’s strange that all that effort,
Which is parenthood’s intent,
May yield outcomes unexpected,
Not requiring consent.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2023

Poem

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Krutsinger Avatar
August 16, 2023 at 10:41 PM
Some people never fully understand this "Then choosing what we’ll keep or toss, Deciding who we’ll be." but I sure do!
Wolf Avatar
August 16, 2023 at 6:56 PM
Very prescient. Wisdom runs deep through these lines, Ilene. A BIG FAVE for me. Thank you, Gershon
Anaya Avatar
August 16, 2023 at 2:26 PM
Put that cigarette out, I can't stand the smell! Every morning on the way to school, (in the Chevy Impala), I'd yell at my mom. "Absorbing what we see" excellent....
M  Avatar
August 16, 2023 at 4:07 AM
Wow ….love this one Ilene….so well said and so very true! Debx
Allison Avatar
August 15, 2023 at 10:01 PM
a piece i definitely can relate to big time Ilene, always a joy to read your poems:-) hope your arm is improving:-) hugs Jan xx
Vaso Avatar
August 15, 2023 at 8:56 PM
The poem resonates with me, love it!!!
Brotherton Avatar
August 15, 2023 at 5:53 PM
It is hard to not jump in and take control. Particularly when you know they're about to make a mistake. Love this poem.
Baker Avatar
August 15, 2023 at 5:17 PM
Your message was true, Ilene, we really can't control the choices our children make as adults. All we can do is our best and wait and see. Your poem had a nice rhythm to it as I read it. Smiles ~ Blessings Bill
Flood Avatar
August 15, 2023 at 3:20 PM
It’s a shame that so many kids are primarily influenced and impressed by the ‘baddest’ kid in class. It’s a lucky or skilled parent who can out-influence the rebel peer. I, of course, was a perfect child… excuse me while I polish my halo!
Borke Avatar
August 15, 2023 at 3:13 PM
Enjoyed.
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