The Work of Childhood

Play is the work of childhood
As they mimic the things that we do,
Imitating the grown-ups is reflexive
As they are less clear than we hope to be
About what is the 'me' and what is the 'you.'

If it's good they try to copy us
If it's bad they are not dissuaded
They have no clear sense of conscience yet
With which to be cajoled, influenced or persuaded.

We must be careful what we show them
Because they will make it their own;
No matter what we tell them,
They will do what they are shown.

"Do as I say, not as I do"
Was a waste of breath to
Those by whom we were raised;
Just as it will be for us,
Though by the weakness of words
We are forever amazed.

Play is the work of childhood
The parents write the text
And in that way prepare their offspring
To deal with what may come next.

'Tis better done with thought and plan
Than spewing words and phrases,
By showing them who and how to be
So we can later sing their praises.