The Forbidden Cliché

Tell me, what do you see
an old man with wrinkles, potbelly,
stooped shoulders and balding hair?
Careful now, you know not what
the old man has been there.

Do you question the old man
taking naps and walking the dog
rain, snow or sunny?
Careful now, for 40 years, he
was a boss, had a boss and saved money.

Do you realize the old man
was once a kid, playing in the park,
breaking streetlights and telling lies?
Careful now, don't misjudge him, when
he says nix, nix, and disgustingly sighs.

Do you believe the old man
doesn't understand beer, sex,
fast cars and the party?
Careful now, did you know, he
belongs to a social fraternity.

Do you know the old man
understands dirty diapers, college tuition,
trick-or-treat and kids in the dirt?
So you see, he's been there,
done that, and has the T-shirt.

la 11/26/06

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