"TWO DIFFERENT WORLDS"
* * *
"Come sit ye down beside me, friend, we'll spin a yarn or two;
and talk about how long it's been, and what we've all been through.
Just reminisce of long ago when we were young and spry;
when life seemed free from strife and woe, and sweet as apple pie!
When folks could walk the streets at night without some harm to pass;
when everyone had hearts as light as dew drops on the grass.
And after meals when evening stills, the folks would often camp;
and sing and hum as banjos strum- by light from oil-fed lamps
When friendly smiles were normal styles, with handshakes strong indeed,
and folks we knew would walk for miles to help a soul in need."
* * *
And we would even walk to school, maybe a mile or two,
and never dreamed of violent schemes; which now they sometimes do.
And in the school the golden rule was seen a daily "norm."
But not today!-- Its disarray as cops patrol each dorm.
* * *
"Remember back in early years when carefree was the style?
The many hayrides and the cheers- that made our life worth while? "
* * *
We'd stack a pile of Autumn hay into a pick-up Ford;
then off we'd go our merry way, without some drug on board.
No cigarettes, no alcohol, by parent's guided grace;
and looking back, we had a "ball" with smiles on every face!
* * *
No, there was no sign of acid rain, and drugs we did not see;
like opium or "crack" cocaine, or "pot' and "ecstasy".
Oh what a shame! it's the times I blame; I yearn for the good old days;
but the world has changed, and disarranged, and my! how it changed our ways!
* * *
But I'll cling to the thoughts I pine today; I'll hold these memories long;
and I'll give thanks in a sadden way-- for all that's come and gone.
"But listen, friend, about this trend, It too, will pass away;
and all the mess this world is in- will meet it's judgment day! "
* * *
By William E. Hardison (c)