TODAY


When I got mad and hit my child,
"For his own good," I reconciled,
Then I realized my plight...
Today, I taught my child to fight.

When interrupted by the phone,
I said, "Tell them I'm not home."
And then I thought, and had to sigh...
Today, I taught my child to lie.

I told the tax man what I made,
Forgetting cash that I was paid;
And then I blushed at this sad feat...
Today, I taught my child to cheat.

I smugly copied a cassette,
To keep me free of one more debt.
But now the bells of shame must peal...
Today, I taught my child to steal.

Today, I cursed another race.
Oh God, protect what I debase,
For now, I fear it is too late.
Today, I taught my child to hate.

By my example, children learn
That I must lead in life's sojourn
In such a way that they are led
By what is done not what is said.

Today, I gave my child his due,
By praises for him instead of rue.
And now I have begun my guide:
Today, I gave my child his pride.

I now have reconciled and paid
To IRS on all I made.
And now I know that this dear youth
Today, has learned from me, the truth.

The alms I give are not for show,
And yet, this child must surely know
That charity is worth the price;
Today, he saw my sacrifice.

I clasp within a warm embrace
My neighbor of another race~~
The great commandment from above.
Today, I taught my child to love.

Someday, my child must face alone
This world of fearsome undertone,
But I have blazed a sure pathway:
Today, I taught my child....to pray.