A Child For A Day Poem by Jim Yerman

If I were a child for a day, I wonder, would anyone lend an ear?
I know I’d have a lot to say…would anybody hear?

If I were a child for a day, then I think before I go
There are a few things I’d like to tell my parents, a few things I’d like them to know.

If I was a child for a day and it was my job write this rhyme
The first thing I would tell you is to give of me your time.

Yes, you should know not only for me but for every child’s sake
That just producing children does not a parent make.

You may give me gifts of money or toys that move and speak
But at the end of every day it’s time with you I seek.

I would tell you it is in your eyes that I find my self-esteem
For I know if you believe in me then I am free to dream.

I would tell you that I like to play but I’m not looking for fame.
And I don’t need a trophy just because I played the game

I would tell you it’s OK if I fail when I struggle or compete
And when I fail, for I will fail, just help me get back on my feet.

And I need to know that good or bad, from the time that I begin
You’ll love me as much the times I lose as you do the times I win.

For if you are patient with me and whatever problems life will pose
Not only will I prosper but my independence grows.

Don’t be afraid to tell me no, it will help me in the end
Remember I need you to be my parent, I don’t need another friend.

I look to you for guidance and I look to you for love.
And sometimes when I need it you can give me a little shove.

But don’t shove me too much or to both of our dismay
You may think you’re helping but you’re shoving me away.

Remember to love me unconditionally...it’s what parents are supposed to do
If you can do that no questions asked then I will love you too.

It’s not really too much to ask and I hope that you can see
By giving me these simple things there’s no telling who I might be.

If you stop to think about it we are children for only a day
Before life and its responsibilities slowly snatch our innocence away.

So before that happens let me remind you although I may be a small family member
You never know which lessons today…tomorrow I’ll remember.