poemswithapurpose.com

  poems for a new tomorrow

sixteen

 all it took was just 16 years

and now you are a fine young man

and although you may have learned a lot

always watch out where you stand

for this world we live in is a deceptive place

that will trick you when it can

unless you listen and keep a watchful eye

and know exactly where you stand

where if you dare to risk it all

for more than you’ve ever dreamed

then go for it with gusto

and it may be as good as it really seemed

or it may just be another step

not worth the risk ensued

had it been approached with greater care

there would have been nothing to ever lose

for there are ways to get around in life

without risking all you’ve earned

while still allowing yourself to progress

without having to get burned

so take care in all you say and do

and be as fair and as firm as can be

but always keep an eye on where you stand

and where you may need to be

and 16 will then grow to 32

and then again 16 more

where you’ll get your turn to share your burns

with the 16 year old you care for and adore

20 September 2000

for Sean on his 16^th birthday