Poeta Nascitur, Non Fit

5

Rules of Growing Up

1:1

Don't talk back and if you do,

     expect to get smacked.

1:2

Children are to be seen not heard.

1:3

Defiance is akin to impudence,

      and impudence will not be tolerated.

1:4

Don't touch things if you haven't been given permission.

1:5

A belt hurts more than a hand,

     unless the hand's been drinking.

1:6

Ladies do not play with marsh boys.

1:7

Dads don't hurt moms,

     but accidents often happen.

1:8

Quiet girls are pretty girls,

     and pretty girls have futures.

1:9

Do not run when you are in trouble,

      it'll only make him mad,

Instead, bend over and be punished

      for your misdeeds.

And if you find you were in the right,

2:1

Be quiet, and do not say another word,

       or you will surely be punished twice.

2:2

And afterward, find comfort,

      I'm safe in my bed.