The Only Tools Needed Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

It was nearly fourty-five years ago,
When I received my credentials...
To both lead and teach.
Although unconventional were they obtained.
I followed a path and on it I remained.
The military does wonders for those with kept delusions.
Nothing can replace the introduction to being responsible.

Today with attempts made to share my insights,
With others less enlightened but awarded degrees...
Holding promise for maintaining A's and B's,
Or whatever grade average they successfully achieved...
I've discovered it is best to walk away,
From those who believe themselves to be scholars.
That kind of indoctrination eliminates common sense.

And at a very young age I learned it was discipline,
Sacrifice, commitment and kept identity...
That were the only tools needed to achieve and succeed.
With a know-how to sustain myself on the basics first.
And after getting the ingredients to keep on my shelves...
The making of a sandwich I learned to appreciate as I ate,
No matter how many times that same sandwich was made.