Mind Your Manners Poem by Elizabeth Miller

‘Come straight to the table as soon as you're called.
Punctuality is the politeness of kings.'

‘Don't slurp your soup. Sip it slowly and softly
From the side of the spoon.'

‘Try not to wriggle.
Sit still on your chair, both feet on the floor.
Or people will think you have ants in your pants! '

‘Finish each mouthful
Before you converse
Or you'll look like a cow that is chewing the cud.'

‘You cannot get down from the table
‘Til everyone's finished their food.'

Then my father would lean right back in his chair
And send forth a belch
As large as the moon.
‘Ah, that's good, ‘he announced,
‘So much better out than in! '