A SAD REFLECTION ON OUR TIMES...

While driving, in the pouring rain, along a quiet country lane
I passed two children walking home, both getting soaking wet

In years gone by I would have stopped, into the car they could have popped
to take them quickly home to dry, but now my car's a threat

When just a kid and full of spark, while trotting down towards the park
my thoughts were full of meeting friends, to spend a summers day

The park was quite a way to roam, but not a warning came from home
that I should have a fear of strangers, taking me away

When I was young, that last sweet kiss, the final bus I'd often miss
and so I walked, till some kind person, offered me a ride

In later years when I had grown and had a car that was my own
I often thought of those long walks, and lifts I did provide

In Britain in my teenage years, I stood with thumb out, had no fears
and many kindly folks, they chauffeured me, about the land

But now I see folks standing there, beside the Highway thumb in air
I'd like to stop, but I'm afraid, and so I let them stand

My childhood home it had a drive, quite dark at night when I'd arrive
I sauntered down it going home, a flashlight lit my way

My present home it has a drive, quite dark at night when I arrive
but sensor lights they spring to life and make it bright as day

In former years, I don't recall a thought of burglars, not at all
I slept as people seemed to do, quite unconcerned at night

But now our house is fully armed the windows and the doors alarmed
plus sensors, should someone break in, today, as well they might

Today's realities I see, things are not as they used to be
so many things to guard against, solutions can't be found

A sad reflection, heartfelt cry, how did our values go awry ?
so many people live, in fear and predator's abound...

G.W.H. March/95