Strong, Sensible, Understanding, Respectful
An old man was once asked, the ones, of secrets to longevity,
Just how had he approached his life, of all his sights did see.
The man sat contemplating for a while, then to raise his head,
Looking dead into eyes of his guest, as each word was read.
Be strong and never give in, you're made of sterner stuff in life,
Never forgetting limitations you may have, those times of strife.
For in strength one finds determination, in weakest days go on,
Be inspiration to many others, remembering you're not all alone.
A next clue given with a stiff upper lip, be sensible when you can,
Graveyards are littered with tombstones who weren't, understand!
The road we all travel is an unforgiving path, be sure of each step,
A way to safe and endearing life, means to look before you've lept.
His next advice important and so right, to be an understanding soul,
All our brothers and sisters upon this green earth, have to pay a toll.
The heart we have should be an understanding one, a loving refrain,
Not appearing as superior to anyone, each is a child of God, so plain.
Always be respectful to everyone, no matter their color, of their creeds,
We all are deserving a best of regards, in fulfilling our innermost needs.
The final addendum, the old fellow to suggest, "remember all are human",
We each had mothers and fathers, a family of life, instantly or of evolution.
I bowed my head and gave my respects to the old-timer there on his stool,
Told him of how much he had meant, in understanding my future, each rule.
That old guy then did some things to dismay, as he threw away his smokes,
Next he dumped out all of his whiskey flask, saying would be no more notes.
Then that man shook my hand and thanked me, said would be a better man,
The explanation that he was asked, of directions, gave him new hope, a plan.
Besides following his own advice, he now would set a finer example, as well,
The roads of our lives, bumpy, not smooth, encouragement helps, without fail.
******************************************************************************
all rights reserved and protected under copyright laws 2018
*******************************************************************************