If you want to bring up a child
loyal, strong and independent
full of wisdom and knowledge
release him to the hostile world.
Overprotect and massage the child
a fool without ability to reason
and decide issues alone he’ll be.
a rebel against society he’ll be
when he comes of age.
let him climb a tree and fall
let him get cut by a sharp knife
let the caterpillar itch him
let fire burn his restless fingers
let him fall on hard rock and bleed
let a cat scratch his tottering legs
let a wild age-mate slap his cheeks
he’ll learn permanent knowledge
he’ll learn to live with nature
and human beings he’ll honor
he’ll know that the world
is not as loving and soft
as his mother whom he suckled
her warm, beautiful
and friendly breasts.
Lots of praise, but little respect,
So many days, what do they expect?
My job is a maze, to serve and protect.
It hardly pays, last time I checked.
Into past I gaze, hardly time to reflect.
Could have gone many ways, why select,
My choice displays, too late to defect.
Myself I amaze, or does it infect.
Setting soul ablaze, leaving it unchecked.
Was it just a phase, or did I overprotect.
I now have malaise, in complete misdirect.
Retirement delays, takes the toll to intersect.
I gained a little praise, without any respect.
written for
Put Your Best Rhyme Forward!!!!! Free Poetry Contest
written by
Cecil Hickman
date written
12-07-13
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