Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library

The Winter of Our Discontent

By Mary Jane

The family is unhappy.
Honor's not enough.
Essential goods don't cut it, life is getting tough.

When the kids come home unhappy,
I want to scream and shout:
Never, ever forget what life is truly about.
Thank the Lord for what you have,
Even Brussels sprouts.
Reality is often good, when you look all 'bouts.

Often I remember, when I thought quite the same,
Fighting what I did have, wanting someone to blame.

Outlook is important,
Use the world around you.
Realize what is good inside and stop feeling so blue.

Decipher what you need
Isolate your wants
Stop feeling so ashamed
Cherish what you've got.
Optimism helps, courage is what you need
Never ever result to tantrums or to plead.
Tell me what is better,
Escape your fantasy
Now stop and look around you,
Tell me what you see.

Return to Teen Poetry Contest Entries