The Whiskey Taster’s Flavor Guide

Open Mouth Insert Foot

I was 18 years of age
still green behind the ears.
Had enlisted in the service
was full of doubts and fears.

Larry was from Arkansas
and had a real slow southern drawl.
Real laid-back and lazy
is the way that I recall.

He was funny and real pleasant
a real nice guy to know
Also we were bunkmates
me up in the top bunk - Larry down below.

Larry was an older guy
and he had prior service.
Unlike me I have to say
was not the least bit nervous.

One week we were assigned
 to work the dining hall
Our job was washing pots and pans
 not much fun at all!

He had no hurry in him
as the sarge-in-charge could tell.
So he came to us in anger
 and started in to yell.

You guys had better move it
you’re getting far behind
The pots and pans are piling up
work faster if you don’t mind!

He said sarge I only have two speeds
and this job it ain’t no fun
I’m afraid if you don’t like this speed
you sure won’t like the other one!

All I could do was cringe in fear
the color left my cheeks
Was then the sergeant extended us
 to wash for two more weeks.

The tough result I learned that day
with the extension Sarge had put
Proves a famous proverb -
OPEN MOUTH - INSERT FOOT!
Copyright © | Year Posted 2010

Poem

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Desangre Avatar
August 17, 2019 at 7:57 AM
We don't choose our classmates in the school of hard knocks... do we?? An enjoyable read. ~~~Niyna~~~
Mason Avatar
March 23, 2010 at 6:33 PM
LOL what a wonderful story teller has come to PoetrySoup ... smile ... excellent rhyme/write here, Ralph!!
Brown Avatar
March 22, 2010 at 9:02 AM
I am enjoying reading fresh poetry today. What a wonderful thing to do on this rainy day. I am so happy your poetry was among what I have read and enjoyed today Ralph. Love, Carol
Green Avatar
March 21, 2010 at 5:12 PM
Yep- I learned that lesson pretty quick too! Great write!
Devonshire Avatar
March 21, 2010 at 2:56 PM
I'm assuming the "other speed" was even slower as I sit here laughing, Ralph. Guess you and Larry learned something that day...too bad you had to learn it the hard way. But, hey, kitchen duty isn't as bad as being in the front lines. Very funny poem! You have a great sense of humor. Love, Carolyn
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The Whiskey Taster’s Flavor Guide
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace