O Mistakes, My Mistakes

Look both ways before crossing the street,

tie your shoelaces tight to your feet,

For an unseen car might speed down the road,

And untied shoelaces an escape, slow.

If only we’d learn from the wrinkled old hands,

Who warn us the dangers of touching hot pans,

But alas, in young age, we do as we please,

We find out the hard way not all pain will ease.

From all of my teachers, from parents to preacher,

None, hath taught me a lesson like this terrible creature,

My heart has been scarred by his lengthy, sharp claws,

My body bears victim to bite marks and gnaws.

But for all of the hurt you, monster, have caused me,

I will never again, on the same path cross thee,

O Mistakes, my mistakes, you’ve won many rounds,

But for all of your efforts I’m still gaining ground.

No, I admit, I can’t fell you great beast,

But I know one who can! The King of the Least!

He’ll sink you in currents of wonderful red,

And all of your scars off my body will shed.