Spare the Rod, Spoil a Child, Story Poem

Back in the early '50s, my Dad believed in,
"Spare the rod, spoil a child," his lesson seeping in.
As a young growing kid, I longed for playtime's call,
Believing in the joy of games, both indoors and outdoors, I stood tall.

Mornings meant waking up to breakfast's warm delight,
Then off to the playing field, where dreams took flight.
Soccer games with friends, a ball dancing at our feet,
Laughter and competition merging, making life sweet.

Returning home, it was school's turn to take the stage,
Waiting for the bell to ring, releasing me from its cage.
Quickly escaping, my cricket team awaited outside,
Bound by the love of the game, with passion as our guide.

But my Dad had other plans, a tutor he'd employ,
Armed with a shining black ruler, ready to deploy.
Counting became a challenge, I faltered with each try,
And for every digit missed, the ruler would meet my thigh.

Alphabets came next, a daunting task to undertake,
I stumbled and missed many, inviting the ruler's wake.
With each whack, the shrieks pierced through the evening air,
Neighbors and Mom pleading, a cry for fairness to bear.

But my Dad remained unmoved, adamant in his belief,
That homework must be done, before granting any relief.
Yet one day, a lesson blossomed within my soul,
I rid myself of the tutor, and took my studies under control.

From that day forward, I delved into learning on my own,
No more ruler's sting, my independence fully grown.
I realized education could be a joy, not just a chore,
And with newfound freedom, I soared, wanting to explore.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2023

Poem

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George Avatar
July 25, 2023 at 9:21 PM
Congratulations Jay ji on your win !
Goldsmith Avatar
July 25, 2023 at 9:39 AM
Congratulations on your win. A wonderful story/write/ending. Enjoyed It... Have a great day....................
Alex Avatar
July 25, 2023 at 6:03 AM
"From that day forward, I delved into learning on my own, No more ruler's sting, my independence fully grown. I realized education could be a joy, not just a chore, And with newfound freedom, I soared, wanting to explore" - Grea work, Jay. Congratulations!
Daniel Avatar
July 25, 2023 at 1:34 AM
Strict discipline at a young age sometimes is for our own good, great life experience, Jay, congratulations on your win:)
George Avatar
July 3, 2023 at 10:02 PM
Beautiful story. Lovely narration. Fathers of the past were all similar to your Dad in thinking and behaviour. My father was an English teacher. He taught me in Standard seven. Both in class and at home he was a teacher. I have got many spanks from him. Now I am grateful that I can handle the language with confidence.
Dietrich Avatar
July 3, 2023 at 4:36 PM
It sounds like your dad was very stern about homework. I guess my siblings and I never had too much homework. We always managed to have lots of fun as well as get our homework done!!
Poet Avatar
July 3, 2023 at 2:40 PM
The pursuit of play holds immense significance for individuals of all ages, serving as a delicate equilibrium to be discovered. Simultaneously, the realm of education assumes a paramount role in our existence; however, it must never be enforced through compulsion, intimidation, or retribution.
Andresen Avatar
July 3, 2023 at 10:59 AM
- Education is important in life...but not under coercion and punishment -Play is also important for both adults and children...it's about finding the perfect balance...lovely written, Jay - Thanks for your story :) - hugs
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