During my youth, I heard little about greed,
And people seemed to care more about each others need.

Everything seemed good,
In my neighborhood.

I was raised in a village under everyone’s eye
And whatever I did, it did not slip by.

The elders that knew us all,
Because the village was very small.

And some were eager to report,
Little children’s mishaps of any sort.

Neighborhood watch was invented then,
Because you were noticed, no matter where or when.

I knew early on
In this place, I did not belong

And of course it raised eyes
When I said my good byes.

But I am so thankful I did,
Because my future I could not see under this tight lid.

But the teachings of Church and community constraints,
Did help me avoid many complaints

I did my best to please
Even if it was not always with ease

I am content with life and what I did,
And did not need a tight lid,

To keep me in line,
I did it on my own just fine.