When - Both Audio and Text

This piece was inspired by the outstanding Rudyard Kipling poem: “If”. When When, my son, you’ve learned to focus all your hate and anger, and implement the net of all your skill To spare the man you disagree with…opting not to join the ranks of those whose preference is to kill - When you’ve come to realize that helping those in need…and showing those who suffer that you care - Fills your heart with joy and answers questions in your mind --- of which the ones that don’t are unaware - When you comprehend the reason some folks feel obliged to bow their heads when dignitaries pass, And then reject it wholly by adopting this belief: That no one on this earth is second class - When you understand the difference found in how we look can offer no excuse of any kind For treating others hatefully, and see your fellow man through eyes that you can boast are color blind - Only then can you expect to win your bouts with life…which you’re, of course, the only one that can….. For each of these will strengthen you, and fortify your soul…and which is more, my son.....you’ll be a man!