The Way We Were Poem by Dave Tanguay

The honesty we had as children, - in the process of growing
We spoke from our heart, all of our feelings - we were
Showing

Speaking the truth - right or wrong - we told it like it was
For we knew how to behave, - no reason, - just because

Love came natural - we did not need learn it in school
We knew right from wrong, for living with love - required
No rules

What came natural was real, what we dreamed and imagined -
We were taught our world was a fantasy, - and our dreams we
Must abandon

As children, we see all people as our neighbors and friends
We are taught to beware, and are told - who we may,
And may not, - befriend

Reality as we know it, - is an accepted - and conclusive
Fact of life
To conform we are told, “We must! ” - To a species living
As creatures with much strife

We can never out grow - our need for love.
For to love and be loved, is what living - consist of

The distant dream we adults are all - in search for
Is the way we were as children, - and have since
Been trying to restore


(8/25/07)