The Perils Of Uncle Jack Poem by Louie Vetter

Man, it sure was dusty, hot and dry that day.
I just had to make that stop along the way.
For a stiff shot of rye and a six of beer.
So handy to have the bar that near.
It felt like having booze was the way to go.
And the last few years it seemed I needed more.
Well, It sure felt good when I poured it down.
Started warming up my belly then I headed outta
town.
It was all going good till I was nearly home.
Then I hit loose gravel and I started to roll.
Got thrown out the window by the very first turn.
And when I came to, this world was a blur.
Checked for cuts and breaks but none to be found.
My truck I found wrecked and sitting upside down.
I was chuck full of luck just to walk away.
From the twisted hunk of metal that forlornly lay.
Made a promise to myself which I keep to this day.
Stay away from that drink, it just don't pay.
Now I'm the kinda guy who don't say much.
But have a few too many and I'll sure to be in touch.
I'll tell you just how easy it is to get the bug.
Before you even know it you'll be hooked on that
drug.
I know all the symptoms and I know all the signs.
For I've been through them all, many a time.
I know all too well what waits down that road.
It gets worse and worse and its just no good.
The worst of it is when we sit behind a wheel.
The innocents suffer, the consequences real.
So if we can't stop at a glass or two.
That's a warning sign to quit and to say adieu.
Cuz when you sit down with Uncle Jack.
Captain Bacardi or Johnny Black.
Sure good friends for a little while.
They make you talk and make you smile.
Before you know it they own your soul.
They drag you down in a deepening hole.
And all the while you think that you're in command.
Its something you can handle and that you're a
man.
But to that fiery liquid its just a game.
Its bent on your destruction and total shame.
Till you're sitting with nothing left in the bag.
A failing liver and shaky hands.
A life that has somehow passed you by.
Your wife and kids, a blur gone by.
What started out as a social thing.
Has ruined your life and.... everything.