I recall back in my day said my mother when as kids we played in water, sand and mud

We were unbridled in our fear and with our friends climbed trees, played hide and seek and chewed the cud

Tumbling and falling were commonplace, cuts and bruises on our knees were the norm

And even if tears were shed they quickly disappeared when we realized the expectation was to be strong

Our parents’ words were final, the discipline was unwavering and we knew

When our parents said no, it would be only once, they meant it so us kids quickly took our cue

Our childhood needs were few and simple – a loving home, clean fresh air, wholesome food

Adequate clothing, time with friends, time for play, and an education that was good

We took nothing for granted because our parents told us so

We exercised gratitude for everything we received – we knew it was apropos

I wish we could turn back the clock, I heard my mother say as she lamented the loss of those days of old

Many of the younger generation exhibit selfishness, lack resilience, are spoiled, and won’t be told

Unchecked this cycle will repeat itself when this generation leaves the fold

I listed intently to my mother’s critique as she reminisced about her life lived a certain way

And I wondered if in the future, I too would commence a recollection of today with the words “Back in my day…”

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