The Day I Became A Man Poem by Sirpheno The Knight

I was 8 years old, with a New Red Rider and 3 packs of BB''s.
I worked my way around my back yard,
shooting, doors, cans, bottles, posts and such.
I soon bored with simple targets.
I went in search of bigger game.
In the middle of the alley sat a Robin.
With one shot it fell Cold-Dead instantly.
As my heart broke, I dropped my new rifle in the dirt.
I ran to the Robin and picked up its lifeless form.
I started to cry, hard, wet, heart-broken tears.
I then, . could see.. how fragile and beautiful it was.
My father came up behind and asked, What have you done?
I shot at this Robin, but I really didn't, try to kill it.
Why did you take aim and shoot? My father asked.
I don't know why, I said.
As he gently wiped away my heart-broken tears,
Only ONE animal kills without a reason.
Today, you became a man, Never forget what it cost you son.
I doubt I ever will, After 50 years,
The PAIN is still in my heart!