Today I Taught

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

When interrupted by the phone,
I said, "Tell them I'm not at 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 to 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 the IRS on all I made;
And now I know that this dear youth...
Today has learned from me of 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.