When I was a small child 
you taught me right from wrong. 
Altho I thought your reasons were 
sometimes unfair and long. 


You told me no on things 
that I didn't want to hear. 
You told me things like clean your room 
or you'll be grounded til next year. 

"Mind your manners" 
I still recall you saying. 
And "eat your dinner now" 
'cause foods not meant for playing. 

But now I understand Mom 
and I hear you in my tone. 
When I repeat the things 

.....you said so long ago 
to the children of my own! 
~Nancy Smith