The Big Thirteen Poem by John Carter Brown

Dear Sam, although you're still quite small,
No larger than a runner-bean,
You're sure to drive us up the wall
Now that at last you've reached thirteen.

No more for you the childish things,
The toys, and stuff you understand;
You'll wear your fancy clothes and rings,
And reach out for your boyfriend's hand.

You won't be wanting to sit in
With us, and chat about the day;
You'll fuss about your looks and skin,
And how your hair just blows away.

Just for a time you'll be the one
And only, no-one else will matter;
We'll have to think just where you've gone,
And just who's peace you're trying to shatter.

But don't forget your Mum and Dad,
The ones who worked so hard, unseen,
To bring you safely to this time,
And helped you reach the BIG THIRTEEN.