Repercussions

A young boy who’d been told often enough of the virtues of honesty, Resolved to tread the same path even in difficulty. He decided he’d never tell lie nor steal things, Love all those around him, be they paupers or kings. He knew the path he’d chosen was going to be tough, And the journey he had initiated was going to be rough. But his resolve was firm and his mind was set, He wanted to find the truth in the advice that he’d never forget. Saying so, he walked forth, never to turn back again, To bear all that befell, sunshine or rain. But how was he to know of the hardships to come, For advices are not to be followed, only to be given by some. The very next day at school, the teacher asked him a question he didn’t know, He refused to cheat, even when proffered to so. So he was beaten by his teacher for his ignorance, But he bore his first reward of honesty with forbearance. And later in the day when his teacher asked him if he had taught well, He replied honestly, that he thought it was worse than hell. The teacher was infuriated by his remark hence, And he was beaten again for his insolence. He uttered not a cry nor did he complain, The path of righteousness was difficult to him it was plain. When back at home his mother asked him how he’d fared at school that day, His honest reply infuriated her straightaway. So he was beaten once again, The poor boy, his honesty did not go in vain. And then, while playing his team decided to cheat, But he was honest enough to point it out to the kids across the street. Furious now his teammates told him to quit the field, From their wrath, his honesty did not shield. But the poor fellow bore it with courage and goodwill, It was a small price for honesty, he decided still. And when in the evening, he had guests at his place, He honestly told them they’re a great nuisance on their face. This remark annoyed his father no end, And the poor fellow was grounded for the weekend. All his agonies made him realise with tact, That advices look good only in books is a fact.