The Way It Is
We were all just young kids.
Trying to find our way as we live.
Some of us went the wrong path.
Led astray while others laugh.
Some of us made our own way.
We survived to this very day.
It wasn’t easy for our lot.
We went to ‘the school of hard knocks.’
That was where we learned most things.
The lessons were felt, but rarely seen.
They made us the men we are today.
Independent and wise in our ways.
Parental guidance was a help.
If not sheltered, like a whelp.
We were allowed to make mistakes.
From this we learned what it takes.
Life is hard. We needed coping skills.
We learned these along with the ills.
We learned to respect the law.
We knew hard work, & that ain’t all.
Respect for others was a plus.
Others would then look out for us.
Do your part, others can’t or won’t.
Be drawn to the do’s, avoid the don’ts.
Be a man. Always tell the truth.
Be kind and courteous. Never uncouth.
Try not to be too judgmental.
Other’s survival was not sentimental.
They are who they are from their past.
Their experiences back then still last.
The results are who they are.
Give thanks that we have come so far.
A lifetime has made me and made you.
Don’t waste it by acting the fool.
Use it all to improve yourself.
Others will be blessed. It will be felt.
Thank your parents and thank God.
You are surviving with their nod.
Now, make them proud of you.
Continue to grow in every venue.
Someone all will look up to.
It’s in the cards for me and you.
———————–R. W. Johnson—–(2015)