3-10-00
The expectations of a parent
are like nails
held to their
children's back
Held just close enough to make it
apparent
what will happen if they
slack
Because of this
the
kids walk fine lines
like tight ropes
while bearing
unnecessary pressure
and they do
this all in hopes
living up to their parents'
measure
They're forced into invisible molds
(an act the parent
will never admit)
and every time
the children
do
exactly what they're told
the molds
become
a better fit
Permanently filling shoes
they should only
be trying on
As they are served
a full plate of values
and they don't get
to leave the table
'til every
last pea is gone
Parents allow fear
to become the
source of their love
Never meaning it to
do any harm
But there's a line between guidance
and a helpful shove
and when it's
crossed
there is cause
for alarm
But as children are
tucked in for the
night
their parent's
smiles hang
high overhead
Though the kids are
told
everything will
be all right
they still feel
the prick of
nails in their bed
