To Be A Father Or Son

Tell, teach, preach, or indoctrinate
by any means necessary.
He'll never learn another way.

 

Balance his needs with your own,
or at least, never let him see you struggle.
That comes later.

 

Sustain his indifference after you've given all,
then mark where exactly to strike when he feels
as though he's earned it.

 

Speak firmly and carry the stick for 
effect, whatever the 
effect may be.

 

If these directions mislead you,
don't worry.
He'll tell you where you went wrong.

This poem is about: 
Me
My family

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