the honorable man

He listens closely to children
The simple things of life are theirs
He speaks clearly and directly to children
With a smile on his face
For the evils of this world
Are his, and the children
Must learn
To face them
Without fear.

He carefully speaks the truth
To merest children.
Excuses himself with patient smile
And a ruffle of the hair.
He walks quietly to his room
Closes the door
And quietly, gently,
Falls apart
Repeat.